Meet Our Team

Dan is our President, CEO and perpetual artist-in-residence. His wide experience across private and public industries is unmatched. Through hard work and ingenuity, he played a key role in building LWPB’s outstanding reputation with various Department of Defense agencies throughout the United States. Over his prolific career, Dan has seen it all and tried it all – but he never stops looking for that next, big idea. Dan is an out-of-the-box thinker, consistently embracing new technologies and systems, and continues to look for new ways to communicate ideas and solve problems.

Looking for an expert in school design? Jeff has nearly 40 years of specialized experience for educational facilities. In his 20 years with LWPB, Jeff has been responsible for planning and designing hundreds of education projects in Oklahoma. Jeff’s work has run the gamut from master plans to sports design, STEM environments to student safety. When searching for an architect with more knowledge and experience, you’ll be hard-pressed to find one. Educators and administrators rely on Jeff’s ever-present creativity, programming expertise and insistence on high quality design and contract documents. Jeff has a passion for working with educators and is an Accredited Learning Environment Planner or “ALEP,” one of only three in the state. As founder of the Oklahoma Green Schools Program, Jeff has become known as “the green schools guy,” pursuing his other passion of promoting environmental stewardship for students across the state.

In 20+ years with the firm, Rick has been the lead architect on many of LWPB’s most significant federal and education projects, exceeding $400 million in total construction value. Most recently, his primary emphasis has been the development of our federal and design-build portfolio. As one of only a few certified Design Build Professional (DBIA) architects in Oklahoma, he is uniquely positioned to deliver cost effective design-build projects without sacrificing good design. As a principal design architect and project manager, Rick brings a vast range of experience and deep passion for architecture to every project. A rarity for a true “design architect,” Rick has a sixth sense for managing costs, schedule and constructability issues. This unique balance of high design and practicality has made Rick a favorite with design build contractors, government clients and construction managers alike.

Dennis has served as Principal-in-Charge on numerous multimillion dollar healthcare and government projects over his career. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, he has programmed and designed more than one million square feet of medical, laboratory and office space.
Dennis is the guy you want in a high-stress situation – he’s seen it all and has the answer to nearly any problem. Clients and colleagues alike rely on his open communication skills and cool-headed style. A gifted space planner, Dennis has an impeccable track record for high-quality design and practical problem solving.

Craig is a graduate of Oklahoma State University and has been a licensed Architect since 1995. He has extensive experience in higher education, cultural, athletic, recreation and commercial projects. Clients and design partners alike have come to rely on Craig’s construction knowledge, design sensibility, and responsiveness to changing project demands to make their projects successful. The consummate contract manager, Craig shepherds his projects from programming through construction, skillfully troubleshoots with designers, engineers and contractors, and never loses sight of the original vision for the project. Craig is that rare blend of “big picture” and “detail” guy – he has mastered the art of making smart design decisions, while still keeping an eye on potential pitfalls further down the road.

As the newest Principal, James Howard is an important part of the LWPB team. With over 20 years of professional experience, James has effectively led the design and production of multi-million dollar projects while satisfying complex program requirements and meeting the budget goals of our clients through skillful communication and attention to detail. This experience has been applied in a wide range of project types including educational, federal, municipal, and commercial facilities. James is also a civic volunteer having served on the Norman Planning Commission and a variety of City of Norman coalitions to study community needs. He is currently serving on the Board of Adjustments. Beyond his passion for architecture, James finds great personal satisfaction in helping people achieve their professional and personal goals.

Christian received a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1993, from the University of California, Berkeley.
He successfully completed their Pre-Medicine program and graduated with certification as a single-source instructor for Secondary Education in Biology. Upon graduation, he accepted an offer to train for the Modern Pentathlon at the U.S. Olympic Training Center. After a career-ending injury in an Equestrian Event, Christian entered the University of Oklahoma’s College of Architecture where in 1998, he graduated top in his class with a Master of Architecture Degree.
Since graduation, Christian has spent the last 22 years being intimately involved and dedicated to his clients. Christian has used this non-traditional path to Architecture to work primarily in the Design of Education Environments. His leadership has resulted in the completion of nearly 100 Education projects all throughout the State of Oklahoma, including dozens of Sports Facilities and Complexes.
In the end, Christian understands that the Design and Construction process is temporal. As we at LWPB, do our job well, the facilities we design will be around for future generations to appreciate and to continue to be used as permanent, functional and beautiful buildings. Christian is honored to have this responsibility which is why he is so committed to doing the best possible job for our schools and to continue to be a life-long learner just as our educators instruct.

Jeff holds the title of Controller in the office, and no one is quite sure what that means. We do know that we continue to receive our paychecks and the lights stay on, so we don’t question it much! All jokes aside though, Jeff’s financial background and analytical mind are essential to the LWPB operation. Jeff handles the business side of things, giving our principal architects the freedom to devote their mental energies to our clients.

Jason Hukill is a registered architect in the State of Oklahoma and is accredited LEED AP. In addition to his busy roles as a project manager and architect, Jason heads up the sustainable design efforts for the firm. His interest in architecture began when he was very young, noticing the differences in homes and layouts, and sketching floor plans and site plans. As an accomplished professional, he especially enjoys detailing systems and assemblies, and learning about new materials. Throughout his career, Jason has had many unique experiences – the most memorable of which happened upon breaking ground on a project near the sea wall in Pensacola Florida. The construction team found a Spanish Galleon from the 16th century and yes, they had to shut the site down, redesign, and relocate the building to accommodate what would become a long archaeological dig site later!

In his spare time, Jason loves golfing hiking, touring old buildings, and riding anything with a loud engine. We are glad he is a part of our LWPB Team.

Brian has been an integral part of the LWPB team since he graduated from Oklahoma State in 1999. He has a long history of excellence in renovation and new construction projects, with his experience spanning higher education, athletic facilities, corporate and government work. Brian is a LEED Accredited Professional with great constructability and design sense, and puts this knowledge to work in all stages of design – from programming and design documentation through construction. Education, corporate and government clients consistently count on Brian to deliver high quality design, exemplary project documents and a superior finished project.

A 1989 graduate of Oklahoma State University’s architecture program, Roger has been a registered professional architect since 1993. Roger is an uncommonly effective multi-tasker – he manages multiple ongoing indefinite delivery contracts (IDIQ) for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Roger is such an effective “fixer” that he often knocks out small task orders before the rest of the office has a chance to jump in. He is a vital part of our Design-Build and federal design sectors, and his communication and technical skills are impressive by any measure.

Zach earned his Bachelor of Architecture Degree from the University of Oklahoma in 2006, and has since worked on a variety of projects in both public and private sectors. As a licensed Architect, he enjoys and appreciates the challenges associated with the early aspects of the design process, project management, and the special relationship and trust that is built between an Owner and Architect.
Zach believes that clear communication throughout the entire design process, from the first meeting with the client to the closing out of the project’s construction, is the ultimate key to a project’s successful outcome. He also understands the importance of designing a building that carefully balances the function with creative form to deliver a facility that always strives to exceed the owner’s expectations. Zach relishes the opportunity to gain new relationships with owners while maintaining and growing existing relationships with his long-term clients.
When not at the office, Zach enjoys spending time with his wife Ashley and his family. He loves wakeboarding, camping, and surfing with friends any chance he gets.

Dave is a long-standing member of the LWPB team and holds degrees in Business Management and Architecture, with a minor in Construction Science. In his time at LWPB, Dave has provided construction administration support on over 50 educational projects in the state. Specific responsibilities include site observation, submittal review, RFI responses, and pay application review. His construction project experience has included a full range of education facility types, including new and renovation projects for early childhood centers, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.

Mechanical Engineer from the University of Florida with over 40 years’ experience in the fields of Architecture, Engineering And Construction. Past roles have included Program Management and corporate executive positions.

At LWPB he oversees the business operations and has been involved in Golf Course Development as a Project Development Director. When he is not in the office you may find him at the golf course.

Heather Applegate wears many hats here at LWPB. She holds an Associates degree in Horticulture from OSU-OKC and a Bachelors degree in Landscape Architecture from OSU-Stillwater. In college, she had many incredible experiences through the “National Association of Landscape Professionals National Collegiate Landscape Competition, competing for 5 years in the Wood Construction, chainsaw, landscape design, irrigation design, Landscape Plant installation, and outdoor plant ID categories. Since being with us, she’s prepared site plans, designed playgrounds, and developed landscaping schemes for many of our school projects, and now spends much of her time working alongside our interior design team.

Heather enjoys a variety of hobbies in her free time (when she’s not filling her “Swim Mom” role!). These include traveling, scrapbooking, glass blowing, gardening, flower arrangement, and more.

Rebekah earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and a Master of Architecture from the University of Oklahoma and is a licensed architect within our Federal sector. At LWPB, she quickly distinguished herself as a thoughtful designer, problem-solver, and natural project manager. Rebekah’s insatiable curiosity and creativity carries over into all she does.

Rebekah has worked in both our OKC and Norman offices – and now nearly exclusively remotely from her family farm. Growing up on her family’s Indian Allotment and working farm instilled a special connection to Oklahoma’s land and people. She loves the opportunity to remain connected to the land and culture as she works and raises her children on their 400 acres.

Design Professional and Project Manager Jennifer Ballard brings more than a dozen years of interior design and project management experience to our LWPB team. She has a Bachelor of Architecture from The University of Oklahoma and a background in color composition and sculpture, resulting in a unique skill set to address the designing, planning, detailing, and managing of various projects. Within the firm, Jennifer excels at collaboratively working with members of the team to deliver the best design solutions for our clients.

Born and raised in northwest Oklahoma City, John began working in the construction industry at a young age. He previously worked as a carpenter and assisted with several high-profile jobs including the Devon Tower Rotunda, Lingo Construction Offices, the Falls Creek Convention Center, and the Colcord Hotel. John graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 2018 with a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture. His experience in both design and as an individual contractor make him a valuable member of the LWPB team. Outside of the office John is a craftsman, and can often be found working on one of his many creative endeavors.

Greg Yeary obtained his degree studying architecture at Oklahoma State University. With over 20 years of architectural experience, over 10 years of engineering experience, and over 20 years of project management experience, Greg has proven himself an expert in the field. As a Construction Contract Administrator, he is a conscientious and meticulous with every project, with a special knack for expediting submittals and contractor requests.

A team player who goes above and beyond, Greg’s ability to both collaborate and work independently has allowed him to fit well at LWPB. Some of his most noteworthy projects prior to his position at LWPB include the Skirvin Hotel, Premium Beer of Oklahoma Distribution Center, Saxon Publishers and Oklahoma City Rescue Mission. He has consistently administered hundreds of successful projects over the years, and continues to prove himself a valuable member of every team he is apart of.

Designer James Spear, Assoc AIA, LEED GA, has worked on a variety of projects over his career, including commercial, hospitality, education, healthcare, military, religious, and residential. Especially rewarding among these was working with the Oklahoma City Housing Authority where he sought innovative, simple, humble, and cost effective solutions that would add value to the residents. “As designers, we have a large ethical role in improving the quality of people’s lives,” James believes.

Skilled in Revit and 3D modeling, he enjoys opportunities to work on design solutions of all scales. A keen interest in sustainability led to earning LEED certification quickly after graduating from OU.

James lives in Norman with his wife, two children, and their dog Boston. Though he prefers a more metropolitan lifestyle, he delights in escaping to the wilds on the weekends. James enjoys landscape photography, camping, fishing, cars he can’t afford, cooking extravagant meals for his family and hunting for new coffee shops. We are thankful he is part of our LWPB team.

After working for many years as a systems furniture contractor for commercial, K-12, and federal sectors, Brian recently returned to school for an architecture degree. “I have wanted to be an architect since childhood, and have always worked close to the profession…. Working with architects during my furniture contracting career reminded me there was a larger picture I wanted to take part in while building on my past experience.”
In his time as a systems furniture contractor, Brian designed and built more than 30,000 workstations from all major brands. Notable projects include Vance AFB, Tinker AFB, Continental Resources, Ft. Sill, Merrill Lynch, Dell, Hertz, and AT&T.
Brian is a globe-trotting member of our team, having lived internationally while serving in the Army. He continues to share his love of travel with his family, with a goal of visiting the lower 48 states before his children are grown. He enjoys experiencing new cultures, and seeing how their buildings address the challenges of unique climates and terrains.

Jericho Kindsvater and his larger-than-life personality first joined our team as a student intern in the summer of 2018. Now that he’s graduated, we are thrilled to have him here with us full-time.

Jericho discovered architecture while taking a wood shop class in 7th grade, and began studying architecture at Oklahoma State University with an initial dream of designing his home. He believes “architecture provides an opportunity to create something bigger than myself…a chance to influence the future and people’s day to day living.”

As a student, he had the opportunity to visit Los Angeles, and tour Europe, visiting Rome, Milan, Torino, Barcelona, and London (with London being his favorite). Jericho keeps busy in his spare time, devoting his energy to bike riding, football, basketball, volleyball, and golf, and also enjoys video games and flying his drone. You might just catch some of his drone footage on our Facebook page from time to time!

Designer Jose Rodriguez brings a unique design style to our team. He holds a Bachelors of Architecture from Texas Tech University, and a Masters of Architecture from Syracuse University’s Florence Italy program. In a career spanning more than two decades, he has managed a wide range of design and construction projects in the US, Italy, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Guatemala, and Africa.

In his spare time, Jose enjoys spending as much time as he can with his two daughters. He has a passion for writing and filmmaking, and at one time, he made independent films. We are so pleased to have him on our team.

Raymond Huffman, a graduate of Mississippi State University, is an experienced designer who has worked in a variety of large and small scale projects. These have included park site plans, city monuments, schools, athletic practice facilities, and more. He possesses strong Revit, CAD modeling, and graphic skills.

Raymond is also involved in his community, having served in several capacities in his church as well as volunteering for schools and homeless ministries.

Elizabeth Hasenfratz officially joined our team as a Designer after working as a summer student intern in 2019. She came to architecture from an untraditional perspective – always having a passion for mathematics, she wanted something with less “regularity and monotony” that she felt traditional mathematics-related careers would hold. She loved playing with Legos and Minecraft while growing up, and that drew her to architecture. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and recently completed a Masters of Architecture at the University of Oklahoma.

She and her husband spend their weekends getting out and exploring Oklahoma. “There are neat gems here that you do not see anywhere else.” She also enjoys reading - especially non-fiction American history books, and video-gaming.

Alex is originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma and is currently an Architecture student at the University of Oklahoma. Prior to starting architecture Alex had a strong interest in various kinds of design and construction. This interest has shifted to the built environment and how architecture can positively impact and influence its community. Working on student design competitions for school organization NOMAS have furthered these interests in developing a greater sense of understanding of how important of a role architecture plays in directly impacting individuals. This has further led Alex to developing a passion for architecture and community outreach. Skilled in 3D modelling, Revit, and graphics, Alex enjoys applying those skills to various types of projects.
Alex enjoys spending his free time traveling and experiencing nature at various National Parks as well as exploring new cities and their culture.

Hannah earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. After graduating in May of 2020, she decided her best course of action would be to pursue a Master of Science in Interior Design which she is executing at the University of Oklahoma. Hannah will graduate from the University of Oklahoma in December of 2021. During her studies, Hannah has had the opportunity to study design abroad in Europe as well as participate in a design mission trip in Ghana. Hannah spends her free time with her family, traveling with her friends, or participating in events with her church.

Kelsee Watts, Assoc. AIA, is a graduate of The University of Oklahoma’s College of Architecture. Growing up, she always said she wanted to be an architect - spending her days playing with Legos, Lincoln Logs, and other building toys. Her time in college included serving as Vice President of the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students, as well as working on an exhibit over the American School of Architecture and Bruce Goff’s pedagogy that showcased at the Venice Biennale in 2018 and the OU Bizzell Library from 2019-2020.
Kelsee brings solid Revit skills to our team, enthusiastically diving into whatever project she is tasked with. Her strengths in problem solving and pattern recognition – and ability to learn quickly - has made her an invaluable member of LWPB and we are thrilled she is a part of our team.

When she’s not in the office, Kelsee’s hobbies include running and working out, cooking at home, and enjoying her two cats.

Jingfen works from the design philosophy of using evidence-based design to create joyful and inspiring spaces for all. She is user-focused and uses her skills with people to drive performance and achieve success on her projects, including her Interior Design Educators Council project that won first prize in 2015. She has studied Architecture in China and earned her MS in Architecture and MFA in Interior Design from Iowa State University. She is currently pursing her NCIDQ certification. Outside of work, Jingfen enjoys ink pen drawing and spending time with her 8-year-old son, who loves swimming, drumming, board games and Disney.

Keith joined the LWPB team full-time after being part of our graduate internship program and earning his bachelor’s degree in architecture from Oklahoma State University. He grew up drawing plans of buildings and athletic fields, and grew to love design through his father who is a carpenter and craftsman. Keith sees architecture as an ability to create a wonderful experience for other people, hoping to make a positive impact in other people’s lives through architecture and design.

Trishna grew up wanting to be a pediatrician, inspired by her love of the game Operation. As she grew up, she realized that was not the right path for her and through the University of Oklahoma’s major exploration program, she discovered that she enjoyed Architecture and the problem-solving that came with it. She is an Associate AIA and in her spare time enjoys reading and traveling.

Jennifer Brown has wanted to be an Interior Designer since kindergarten, and that dream has taken her all the way to LWPB. She earned her Bachelor of Interior Design from the University of Oklahoma, and she has extensive experience in all phases of design including programming a project, space planning, interior finishes and lighting and design development. She lives with her husband Josh, daughters Hunter and Jaelyn, and a few pets - a dog, chickens and a mini potbelly pig. She enjoys watching her daughters play sports, working out, camping and traveling.