Lance Hinkle

Assoc. AIA Senior Project Coordinator

I was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and spent my early years at Eastern Hills Christian Academy. After completing elementary school, I was honored to receive a legislative scholarship to attend the New Mexico Military Institute. My time at the Institute was incredibly formative; I achieved the rank of platoon sergeant and graduated with honors. It was also at the Institute where I discovered my passion for design, especially through a project in science class where I built balsa wood bridges.

After military school, I continued my education at the University of New Mexico. I spent four years at the School of Architecture and Planning, immersing myself in the field of architecture. Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture was a significant milestone, marking the start of my professional journey.

My first job out of college was with Southwest Glass and Glazing, the largest glazing subcontractor in New Mexico. Working there, I was involved in producing shop drawings for storefronts, curtainwalls, metal panels, and sunshades. This experience was invaluable, giving me hands-on knowledge of architectural design and construction.

In May 2018, I decided it was time for a new adventure and moved to the West Coast. I settled in California and started working with PBK Architects in Costa Mesa. As a job captain, I oversee projects from the schematic design phase through to agency review/approval and even continuing to support projects through the construction administration phase. My primary responsibilities include working on construction documents and preparing client presentations, which I find both challenging and rewarding.

I now live in Irvine with my girlfriend and our two cats. While I enjoy the beautiful weather and outdoor lifestyle that Orange County offers, I also make it a point to return to Albuquerque to visit family. Balancing my professional and personal life is important to me, and I cherish the time I spend enjoying the great outdoors.