California-based HMC Architects has appointed Principal Pasqual Gutierrez, AIA, to the position of director of architecture.

His responsibilities will be to further elevate HMC’s technical services, while enhancing the internal mentoring and training programs that make HMC one of the most sought after architecture and design firms for emerging professionals.

“Pasqual is uniquely qualified for this position,” said HMC Executive Vice President Chris Taylor, AIA, LEED® AP, citing his previous experience, 10-year history with the firm and knowledge of evolving industry standards and training requirements through his involvement with the architecture community statewide.

Gutierrez is past president of the Inland California Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIAIC), currently serves as a director for the AIA California Council (AIACC) and serves on the board of directors for the California Architects Board (CAB), where he is chairman of the Professional Qualifications Committee. He also serves on the board of directors for HMC.

According to Taylor, “Pasqual immediately fit into our leadership team and has contributed to some of our most significant projects over the past decade.” Through owning and running his own practice for 11 years and since joining HMC in 1999, Gutierrez has provided leadership, technical expertise and management experience, while advancing from senior project architect to studio leader and principal in charge. His signature efforts include the Kaiser Downey Medical Center, which was recognized for project innovation in Buildings magazine, and the Frontier Project, a LEED® Platinum-targeted community learning center in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., that will serve as a demonstration site for sustainable building design and construction practices and technologies. The 14,000-square foot Frontier Project is under construction and scheduled for completion this summer.

As director of architecture, Gutierrez will focus his attention on improving HMC’s technical services including project management, construction administration, cost estimating, quality document coordination, promotion of sustainable design, and client advocacy with the Division of the State Architect (DSA), the Office of Public School Construction (OPSC) and the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD). Gutierrez is also developing additional internal programs for community outreach, AIA Continuing Education System, and State Licensing Mandatory Continuing Education requirements, along with professional development within HMC for emerging professionals.