Management Team

DOUGLAS H. LEE, AIA, is a graduate of California Polytechnic State University where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Architectural Engineering in 1965. Following his graduation, Mr. Lee joined the staff of the world renowned architect, Paolo Soleri, where he was the Chief Architect contributing to the design and construction of Arcosanti, Soleri’s experimental three-dimensional city near Prescott, Arizona.

Mr. Lee’s work spans the globe. Prior to founding Lee & Sakahara Architects, Inc. in 1979, Mr. Lee went abroad as the Director of Design for a multi-national architectural and engineering firm, gaining a wealth of international experience. He has designed major projects in Korea, Japan, Iran, Vietnam, Colombia, Belize, and Argentina. With experience that extends over five decades and a licensed architect in 15 states, Mr. Lee is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and holds the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Certificate.

As the Founder and CEO of Lee & Sakahara, Mr. Lee is responsible for overall operations and strategic planning. In addition, he actively participates in many of the firm’s projects, especially during the inception phases.

WADE KAO, AIA, is an honors graduate from Texas Tech University with a Master Degree in Architecture. He is a registered architect in California & Nevada and joined Lee & Sakahara Architects in 2011 as Director of Production responsible for the implementation of BIM and Revit production for the firm. Mr. Kao brings over 20 years of varied professional architectural experience in a wide range of project types, from hospitality to industrial, retail, office, and military projects throughout the United States. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and holds the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) certificate.

Mr. Kao’s strong leadership and management skills gave rise to his appointment as the new President of Lee & Sakahara in 2021. As the President of Lee & Sakahara, Mr. Kao is responsible for all aspects of the firm's architectural practice in the Irvine and Las Vegas offices. In addition, he actively participates in the design, planning, governmental agency relations, and client liaison.

CHRIS TEACHMAN, AIA, graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture from Kansas State University. He is a licensed architect in Nevada and holds the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Certificate. Mr. Teachman joined Lee & Sakahara Architects in 2011 as a Sr. Project Manager in charge of federal projects for Lee & Sakahara’s Las Vegas office. In his capacity, he led the teams to successfully complete the design and production of several Air Force TLF and Visiting quarters. As a LEED accredited professional, his focus is based in the research and development of utilizing passive environmental control systems to achieve energy efficient buildings while maintaining the client's vision. His meticulous attention to detail and listening to his client’s needs has resulted in developing successful relationships with several satisfied federal and military clients throughout the United States and abroad. Mr. Teachman is a member of the AIA, and an active member of the NAIOP.

Mr. Teachman was named the Principal in Charge of Lee & Sakahara Las Vegas offices in 2021. He is responsible for all aspects of the Las Vegas operations.

VALENTINO (VAL) FERRER, AIA, graduated from Saint Louis University with a Bachelor of Architecture. He is a registered architect in the State of California as well as a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Mr Ferrer has over 30 years of experience in the profession and has been with Lee & Sakahara for over 25 years. In 2022, he was promoted as Vice President overseeing the hospitality division. Also as a Senior Project Manager, his responsibilities include client interface, production of construction documents, consultant coordination, and construction administration.

HEIDE ARNOLD is a California native and veteran of Lee & Sakahara for over 30 years, graduated with honors from California State University Fullerton and holds a Bachelor's degree in English literature with a minor in Business. As a member of the senior management team for Lee & Sakahara's Irvine and Las Vegas offices, she is responsible for the day to day operations, general management and administration, human resources, and contractual affairs. Ms. Arnold is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management and PIHRA and serves on the Board of Directors for Lee & Sakahara Architects.