2026 CO Architects Promotions
We are excited to announce our new associate principals, senior associates and associates for 2026!
Chikara Inamura
Chikara Inamura is the Director of Digital Technology at CO Architects, bringing 20 years of interdisciplinary experience at the intersection of design, engineering, and technology. Since joining the firm in 2021, he has advanced research and practice across computational design, data analytics, interactive media, artificial intelligence, and digital twins. He holds a Master of Science in Media Arts and Sciences from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Architecture from the Southern California Institute of Architecture.
Liz Wheeler
Liz Wheeler is CO’s Marketing Manager, managing the firm’s proposals, marketing initiatives and supporting business development across all sectors. Since joining CO in 2016, Liz has worked across teams to foster knowledge sharing and collaboration that advances thought leadership, elevates the firm’s visibility and reinforces CO’s culture. She earned a Master of Arts in American Studies from Boston University and a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from Fordham University.
Barbara Abecassis, LEED AP
Barbara Abecassis serves as a senior designer, elevating the firm’s science & technology and medical education projects through thoughtful, design-driven leadership. Barbara holds a Master of Architecture and a Bachelor of Environmental Science from the École Normale Supérieure Paris-Saclay in France.
Aaron Horst, AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Aaron Horst brings broad experience across higher education, health sciences, medical education and healthcare projects. Since joining CO in 2018, he has applied his design expertise and team-focused approach to deliver well-executed environments. Aaron holds a Master of Architecture and a Bachelor of Arts from Virginia Tech.
Stephen Maher, AIA, NCARB
Stephen Maher is a skilled architect who leads large-scale healthcare projects with confidence and clarity. He keeps teams connected while navigating challenging project delivery methods. Stephen joined CO in 2020 and holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Oregon.
Virginia Ramirez, NCIDQ
Virginia "Vicky" Ramirez is a dedicated team member who brings an exceptional work-ethic to every project she is a part of. She plays a key role in guiding CO’s medical education projects from planning through delivery, ensuring design intent and quality are maintained. Vicky earned a Bachelor of Interior Architecture from the University of Oregon.
Wyn Thomas Jr.
Wyn Thomas Jr. is a diligent coordinator and project manager known for successfully guiding projects through design to construction. He brings a collaborative mindset and technical expertise to CO’s medical education and K–12 projects, helping teams stay aligned and solution-focused. Wyn holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Louisiana State University.
Saul Alvarez
Saul Alvarez leads CO’s model shop, overseeing the creation of precisely crafted architectural models that support design exploration and client engagement. He brings more than 15 years of experience in fabrication, industrial design and art. Saul holds a Master of Fine Arts from the California Institute of the Arts and a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art.
Erik Annis, LEED AP, NCARB
Erik Annis brings more than 30 years of experience in laboratory planning for higher education, healthcare and government research and academic facilities. He applies his extensive technical knowledge and strategic insight to deliver highly efficient, forward-thinking laboratory environments. Erik holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Virginia Tech.
Julie Chen, Assoc. AIA, LEED GA
Julie Chen is a dedicated designer who brings meticulous attention to detail and thoughtful design solutions to every project. Before joining CO in 2022, Julie earned a Master of Architecture & Urban Planning from the University of Michigan. She also holds a Bachelor's Degree from Chung Yuan Christian University in Taiwan.
Kevin Colby, RA
Kevin Colby is an experienced construction administrator who plays a key role in guiding projects through the construction phase with precision. He helps ensure quality and successful project delivery. Kevin holds a Bachelor of Architecture and Environmental Design from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
Evelyn Ge, LEED GA
Evelyn Ge brings strong problem-solving skills and a collaborative approach to CO’s health sciences and healthcare projects. Since joining the firm in 2022, she has applied her expertise to support design solutions that meet complex programmatic needs. Evelyn holds a Master of Architecture and Urban Studies from UCLA and a Bachelor of Architecture from Virginia Polytechnic Institute.
Ramon Klein
Ramon Klein is an expert in construction administration who ensures projects move efficiently through every phase of construction. He keeps teams aligned and construction on track. Ramon holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Washington and a Master of Architecture from the Southern California Institute of Architecture.
Melissa Rico, Assoc. AIA, NCARB
Melissa Rico joined CO in 2021 and specializes in laboratory planning. She applies her collaborative approach and technical expertise to projects serving a wide range of scientific disciplines, ensuring successful coordination throughout each project. Melissa holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Woodbury University.
Lauren Shaifa
Lauren Shaifa handles technically complex science & technology and medical education projects with confidence and precision. She helps translate complex programmatic needs into high-performing environments. Lauren holds a Master of Architecture from UCLA and a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Kentucky.
Kevin Staten, AIA, ACHA, LEED GA
Kevin Staten is a skillful and dedicated medical planner. He applies his deep insights and knowledge of medical planning to help improve operational efficiency and elevate the patient experience through evidence-based design. Kevin holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Kansas.
