AUSTIN, TX — VLK Architects announces Barry Nebhut has joined the firm’s Austin office as Principal. In this role, Nebhut oversees select clients in the greater Central Texas area. With his vast experience in the K-12 sector, Nebhut has managed more than $1 billion in educational facility projects throughout his career. Nebhut’s managed project types include elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, CTE centers, and administration buildings.

“Barry's wealth of knowledge and experience in educational planning and design are a tremendous addition to VLK leadership,” said Sloan Harris, CEO | Partner of VLK Architects. “From the moment we sat down for the first time, it was clear that he has the dedication and fervor for educational architecture and the clients he has served throughout his career that embodies what it means to be a leader at VLK. I am very excited to have him join our Central Texas team.”

Nebhut earned his Bachelor of Architecture from Texas Tech University. Since then, Nebhut has specialized in the K-12 and higher education sectors. Nebhut has successfully led bond planning and bond campaign coordination efforts in four Texas school districts and one junior college in 10 bond elections throughout his 25-year career.

"Barry is an extraordinary addition to our leadership at VLK,” said Justin Hiles, COO. “He brings a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience to the firm. His passion for education and service to the architectural profession will help us build upon the success we have had and assist in continuing to provide the highest level of service to our clients."

VLK Architects also announces the addition of Tom Oehler as Principal. With 30 years of experience in Central Texas, Oehler has previously served as Managing Principal, Director of Operations, K-12 Practice Director, and Vice President. He will serve as Principal-in-Charge for select clients in VLK’s Austin office.

“Tom joining VLK is an incredible addition to our firm that, frankly, I would have never conceived,” Harris said. “His passion for education, his reputation in our profession, and his decades of dedication to his teams and clients epitomizes VLK's values. I'm very excited to have him on our leadership team as we continue to grow and innovate our practice.”

Oehler earned his Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Oklahoma. Since then, Oehler has managed business development responsibilities across education, commercial, workplace, and health care sectors. Within Oehler’s tenure, he has been instrumental in numerous successful projects and has expertise in the K-12 sector.

“I am excited to join VLK Architects as a new Principal,” Oehler said. “VLK has been a trusted leader in the educational design market for nearly four decades and has performed exceptional work for more than 100 school districts across Texas. ... Their commitment to public education aligns perfectly with my passion in K-12 architecture to make a difference in the lives of the teachers, students, and the communities that our facilities serve.”