Akalkotkar Joins VLK as Principal

Gopinath “Gopi” Akalkotkar has joined VLK Architects as its new principal. VLK offers architecture, planning and interior design services to K-12 and higher education institutions (and other sectors) in Texas. According to VLK, “Akalkotkar will be responsible for leading VLK’s efforts in San Antonio and the South Texas market.”

Akalkotkar Joins VLK as Principal

Photography Courtesy of VLK Architects

“We are excited that Gopi has decided to join VLK. His experience in our profession is substantial to say the least and I am eager to see the leadership and mentorship he’ll bring to our firm. His passion for architecture and gracious demeanor could not be a better fit for our culture and all of us at VLK are looking forward to working with him,” said Sloan Harris, CEO|Partner of VLK Architects, in a prepared statement.

For more than 30 years, Akalkotkar has been involved in numerous projects in K–12, higher education and other areas and has held roles in business development, design and project management, operations and administration at several firms, including ArchWert, Stantec, Parsons (then 3D/I) and Munoz & Co. (then Kell Munoz Wigodsky). He holds a Master of Architecture degree from the University of Texas at Austin.

Further information can be found at vlkarchitects.com.

 

About the Author

David Nagel is the former editorial director of 1105 Media's Education Group and editor-in-chief of THE Journal, STEAM Universe, and Spaces4Learning. A 30-year publishing veteran, Nagel has led or contributed to dozens of technology, art, marketing, media, and business publications.

He can be reached at [email protected]. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidrnagel/ .


Featured

  • Little Grand Market

    Designing for Belonging: Why Student Wellness Starts with Space

    From walkable site planning to flexible interiors, intentional design choices play a critical role in how students experience comfort, connection, and community.

  • University of Kansas Breaks Ground on Entrepreneurship Hub

    The University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kan., recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new KU Entrepreneurship Hub, according to university news. The Hub is part of the university’s School of Business and will include spaces for experiential learning and programming.

  • UTampa Breaks Ground on STEM Academic Facility

    The University of Tampa in Tampa, Fla., recently broke ground on one of its largest academic facilities ever, according to a news release. The Dickey Science Innovation Center will measure 153,000 square feet and has a scheduled completion date of fall 2028.

  • Wisconsin District Breaks Ground on New Elementary School

    The School District of La Crosse in La Crosse, Wis., recently broke ground on a new elementary school that will consolidate the students and staff of two existing schools, according to local news. Funding for the school comes from a $53-million referendum approved in 2024.