Leadership / Team

Christopher Teachman, AIA

Principal in Charge, cteachman@leesaklv.com

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 Ferrer, AIA

Vice President, vferrer@leesak.com

VALENTINO (VAL) FERRER is a veteran architectural leader with over 30 years of professional experience, including 28 years with Lee & Sakahara. A graduate of Saint Louis University with a Bachelor of Architecture, he is a registered architect in California and a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

As Managing Principal of the private sector, Mr. Ferrer is recognized for his exceptional client engagement, precise construction documentation, expert consultant coordination, and thorough construction administration. His dedication to understanding client needs and his meticulous attention to detail have been instrumental in building Lee & Sakahara’s thriving restaurant division and fostering long-term client relationships.  Promoted to Vice President in 2022, Mr. Ferrer now oversees all restaurant, clubhouse, and hotel projects, driving excellence, innovation, and client satisfaction across the firm’s portfolio.

Adrian Harrison, AIA

Senior Project Manager, aharrison@leesak.com

ADRIAN HARRISON is a seasoned design and construction professional with over 25 years of expertise spanning commercial, residential, military, and federal projects. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Loyola Marymount University and a Master of Architecture from the University of Oregon. A California-licensed architect and general contractor, Mr. Harrison is also LEED AP certified and an active member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

For 17 years, he successfully led his own architectural and construction practice, delivering innovative, high-quality projects across diverse sectors. Now at Lee & Sakahara, Mr. Harrison leverages his extensive experience to manage a portfolio of complex military and federal assignments, ensuring exceptional results through strategic leadership, technical precision, and a commitment to sustainable design.

Heide Arnold

Vice President, harnold@leesak.com

HEIDE ARNOLD is a California native and a cornerstone of Lee & Sakahara, bringing over 34 years of dedicated leadership to the firm. Graduating with honors with a Bachelor’s degree from California State University, Fullerton, she serves on the senior management team for the firm’s Irvine and Las Vegas offices, overseeing daily operations, general management, administration, accounting and finance, human resources, contractual affairs, and risk management. She plays a pivotal role in shaping strategic direction while fostering a highly inclusive, growth-oriented workplace culture. She is committed to empowering staff, championing client success, and advancing the mission and values of Lee & Sakahara Architects. Ms. Arnold is an active member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and PIHRA and serves on the Board of Directors for Lee & Sakahara.

Jeremy Smith

Senior Project Manager, jsmith@leesaklv.com

JEREMY SMITH, graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture from Drury University. He is a licensed architect in Nevada. Mr. Smith joined Lee & Sakahara Architects in 2011. He is a member of the NAIOP Southern Nevada Chapter.

As a Senior Project Manager and LEED AP, Mr. Smith as successfully completed warehouse / distribution and office projects throughout the Las Vegas valley and military projects across the United States.