HMC Architects is proud to announce that Oliver Nicolas has joined the firm’s PreK-12 practice as principal-in-charge. His appointment reflects HMC’s continued investment in advancing the PreK-12 practice and expanding its position in the Southern California education market.

With a dual foundation in architecture and civil engineering, Oliver brings more than 23 years of experience delivering impactful PreK–12, healthcare, and residential projects across Southern California. His experience also includes six years at a structural engineering firm and as a specification sales representative for a wood manufacturing company, giving him a unique, comprehensive perspective on efficiently managing and delivering school construction projects. Located in the firm’s Ontario studio, Nicolas will work closely with district clients across Southern California, ensuring strong collaboration and a seamless client experience. Drawing on more than two decades of experience guiding projects from design through construction administration and certification, he will provide strategic oversight to align project goals with client priorities throughout the project lifecycle.

Nicolas is dedicated to helping school districts realize their visions and create student-centered learning environments. His favorite types of projects are remodels, renovations, and modernizations that require creative space planning to fit within the constraints of the existing building envelope or site. His appointment strengthens HMC’s ability to help districts navigate uncertain times, create thriving learning environments, and support student and community success.

“I am delighted to have Oliver on our PreK-12 team,” said HMC’s PreK-12 Practice Leader Brian Meyers. “His deep knowledge of the educational landscape, his passion for creating engaging learning spaces, and his deep roots in the Southern California region are huge assets to our clients and our team in Ontario, California.”

Nicolas is a Southern California native with deep roots in the region and a firsthand understanding of the communities HMC serves. He attended high school, college, and graduate school locally and lives in the Los Angeles area, bringing valuable insights and long-standing relationships that will help the firm’s PreK-12 practice grow across the region.