The AIA awards this distinction to less than three percent of its members in recognition of their exceptional work and contributions to the field of architecture nationally.
Based in HOK’s Houston office, Thomas Bayer, AIA, NCARB, leads technical direction and development for projects throughout Texas and the U.S. Gulf Coast, overseeing technical production, content, quality assurance and construction phase services.
Bayer’s recent projects include the George Bush Intercontinental Airport Federal Inspection Services Building and the Allen Mixed-Use Development in Houston, as well as Austin’s Texas Facilities Commission Capitol Complex Phase II, which centralizes state agencies in modern, efficient office spaces. He also played a key role in Atlanta’s LEED Platinum Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which set new standards as North America’s most sustainable professional sports stadium.
“Tom exemplifies what it means to advance both the technical excellence and human aspects of our profession,” said HOK President Carl Galioto, FAIA. “His leadership in developing, implementing and monitoring standardized quality management systems while fostering a culture of mentorship and knowledge-sharing has elevated not just our firm’s capabilities but the entire profession’s approach to technical innovation.”
As senior technical principal and co-chair of the firmwide Technical Board, Bayer has pioneered innovative approaches to quality management and project delivery across HOK’s global portfolio. In 2019, he launched a standardized quality management system and instituted quarterly reviews to refine processes based on employee experiences. He leads bi-weekly project audit meetings across HOK’s 10 largest North American offices, providing teams with constructive feedback and fostering innovation.
As a key member of the Design and Construction Excellence Exchange (DCX), Bayer expanded its impact in 2024 by developing a tool to enhance transparency and cooperation across disciplines, advancing construction quality.
Beyond his role at HOK, Bayer has greatly influenced architectural education. He serves on the board of the Houston ACE Mentor program and has built lasting relationships with students and faculty at Prairie View A&M University, sharing his expertise in construction technology. He also taught building science as an adjunct professor in Texas Tech University’s Remote Master Program, bridging the gap between academia and practice. His commitment to mentoring has helped more than 1,000 students and 160 mentors in underserved communities.
A graduate of the New York Institute of Technology and veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Bayer brings more than 30 years of professional experience to his practice. His unique career path, from Marine Corps service through decades of architectural innovation, combines military precision with a deep commitment to professional development and education.