Dan is a seasoned construction and building code professional with over 30 years of experience in code compliance, inspections, and project operations. As a Certified Master Code Professional, Texas-licensed Plumbing Inspector, and Master Electrician, he has extensive technical expertise and industry knowledge to his role. At Aoka LLC, Dan leads operations, overseeing teams, optimizing processes, and maintaining high standards for code compliance and project delivery. He also holds multiple ICC certifications and a Master’s degree in Engineering Management from the University of Colorado Boulder, reflecting his commitment to technical excellence and continuous professional development.

Alison Couch is the Director of Operations at Aoka with over 20 years of experience in municipal building operations, plan review, permitting, zoning, and code enforcement. She has served in senior leadership roles including Chief Building Official for the Cities of Oroville and Live Oak, and Planning and Zoning Manager for the City of Corsicana. She is an ICC Certified Building Official with expertise in development review, permitting systems, team training, and policy development. At Aoka, she leads local government operations and oversees VertexPlans demonstrations, implementation, and software-related initiatives.

Smina Chapagain serves as the Director of Finance at Aoka, overseeing the company’s financial operations, including accounts receivable and accounts payable. She provides strategic financial leadership to support sound decision-making, operational efficiency, and the company’s continued growth. Smina also works closely with clients to address financial matters and ensure effective financial coordination. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Brigham Young University.

Sagar is director of Internal Operations at Aoka, where he leads the company’s talent acquisition efforts and oversees internal process optimization. He brings a strong background in business management, team leadership, and customer service from his previous roles.

Rocky Rodriguez is the Business Development Manager at Aoka, bringing extensive experience in sales, and strategic business growth. With a proven track record in achieving revenue targets, process optimization, and stakeholder engagement, he has led multi-million-dollar sales initiatives across various industries, including construction, IT, and manufacturing. Rocky holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Texas Lutheran University.

Lhatul Wangmo is a results-driven Principal Product Manager with years of substantial experience in business analysis and product management. Lhatul's strategic acumen is evident in her ability to craft influential strategies, optimize team productivity, and foster excellent stakeholder relationships. With a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance from Royal Thimphu College, Lhatul's comprehensive approach to product management significantly contributes to driving organizational success.

Will Dalrymple is an experienced Building Official at Aoka Engineering with extensive expertise in building codes, ordinance interpretation, and inspections. With a Bachelor of Arts in Theater Arts from Texas State University, he holds multiple certifications, including Master Code Professional and Certified Building Official. He has over two decades of experience in building inspections, plan reviews, and city code enforcement. Previously, he served as a Building Official for the City of Converse and a Plans Examiner for the City of Schertz, leading permitting departments and overseeing large-scale construction projects. Ronald's skills include team management, problem-solving, and regulatory compliance.

Elias Fernandez is a Certified Building Official and bilingual Houston native who brings precision, people skills, and passion to every inspection and initiative. With a sharp eye for code compliance and a heart for public service, he’s on a mission to make cities safer, smarter, and more connected. From managing teams and streamlining software systems to running his own inspection business, Elias blends hands-on expertise with visionary leadership. Whether he's reviewing plans for high-stakes projects like hospitals and airports or cooking breakfast tacos to build camaraderie with his team, he leads with purpose, patience, and pride.

Aaron Arguello is a Building Official with extensive experience in residential and commercial inspections. He holds multiple ICC certifications and a TSBPE Plumbing Inspector license, ensuring thorough code compliance, safety oversight, and effective administration of building inspection programs across all trades.

George Martinez is a a Building Official at Aoka with over 15 years of experience in building inspections, code enforcement, and plan review. He has led building departments for multiple Texas municipalities and holds numerous ICC, TSBPE, TDLR, and TFMA certifications, including Certified Building Official, bringing extensive expertise in building safety and regulatory compliance.

Sumin is a dynamic and experienced software engineer with a Bachelor's degree from Aryan School of Engineering. He has worked closely with Aoka since the initial days and holds expertise in Ruby on Rails along with Web Design.

Karma Tensel is a skilled software engineer with a passion for building scalable, efficient, and user-focused applications. With a strong foundation in modern programming languages and frameworks, Karma has contributed to innovative software solutions across diverse industries. Known for problem-solving, clean code, and cross-functional collaboration, Karma thrives in fast-paced environments and continuously seeks to grow through learning and mentoring others.

Jigme Choden is a UX Designer and Audio-Visual Artist with expertise in web and mobile applications. She specializes in creating intuitive, user-centric designs that enhance functionality and aesthetics. With experience leading UX projects for international platforms, e-commerce, and telecommunications, she collaborates with cross-functional teams to drive impactful user experiences. Jigme also has a background in motion graphics, animation, and branding, having proficiency in Figma, Adobe Suite, and 3D design tools, she brings a creative and technical edge to digital design projects.

Mahin is a Marketing Manager with a proven track record of driving growth and expanding market share through strategic demand generation and digital marketing. He possesses deep expertise in developing and executing marketing strategies that enhance customer engagement and conversion rates. Mayank's robust skills in marketing automation, data analytics, and cross-functional leadership enable him to deliver impactful results. His experience encompasses managing global market strategies and optimizing customer experience, making him an integral part of our marketing efforts.

Belinda Tarver is an ICC-certified and TSBPE-certified inspector with nearly two decades of experience in building inspections, permitting, and code compliance. She has served as Building Official for the City of Kingsville and the City of South Padre Island, where she managed permits and inspections, reviewed plans for code compliance, implemented permitting software, and presented cases on substandard structures to city boards. Her work also encompassed zoning compliance, dangerous building abatement, floodplain management, and staff supervision. Earlier in her career, Belinda worked as a Building Inspector for the cities of Pearland, Baytown, and McAllen, where she conducted inspections, supported contractors and developers, and ensured public safety through consistent application of building codes and ordinances.

Jose Tovar is a Building Inspector at Aoka with extensive experience in municipal building inspections, construction oversight, code compliance, and field operations. His background includes building inspections for the City of Baytown, construction supervision, SWPPP coordination, and commercial and residential projects. He holds TSBPE Plumbing Inspector and ICC certifications, with strong skills in field operations, problem-solving, attention to detail, conflict resolution, and customer service. Jose’s experience reflects a strong commitment to quality, safety, and building code compliance.

Mike Ward brings more than 25 years of construction and inspection experience. He is a TREC Licensed Professional Home Inspector, InterNACHI Certified Home Inspector, NAWT Certified Septic System Inspector, and ICC Certified Combination Inspector holding B1, M1, P1, P2, and E1 certifications. Mike specializes in residential and commercial inspections, code compliance, plan reviews, and septic system inspections, bringing extensive field knowledge and practical construction experience to every project.

Frank Resendez is a Senior Building Inspector at Aoka with over 20 years of experience in municipal building inspections, code compliance, plan review, and construction oversight. He has extensive expertise in commercial and residential building, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical inspections, as well as permitting and code enforcement. A TSBPE Certified Plumbing Inspector, Frank has a strong background in ensuring projects meet applicable building codes, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

Brandy is a Federal Program Manager at Aoka, leveraging her extensive background in office management, legal administration, and executive support to ensure smooth day-to-day operations. With a proven ability to organize workflows, implement efficient systems, and foster collaboration across teams. Brandy plays a key role in maintaining operational excellence. Her expertise spans calendar management, document preparation, budgeting, and streamlining office procedures, all of which contribute to enhancing productivity and supporting Aoka’s organisational goals. Dedicated and detail-oriented, she thrives on ensuring tasks are executed with precision and professionalism.

Todd is a highly motivated and results-driven HUD Inspector with over 20 years of diverse experience in construction, property management, retail sales, customer service, and home delivery. He has a proven track record of excellence in customer satisfaction, job performance, and accuracy. Currently serving as a HUD Representative, Todd specializes in inspecting new construction and rehabilitations, ensuring compliance with HUD guidelines, plans, and specifications across various projects, including homes, businesses, and government housing.

Eric Duenez is a HUD Inspector at Aoka with over 15 years of experience enforcing housing standards, city ordinances, and property maintenance regulations. He has extensive multifamily inspection experience, conducting thorough on-site evaluations to ensure compliance with HUD guidelines.

Clyde Kilgore is a HUD Inspector at Aoka. He has more than 18 years of experience in property inspections, insurance adjusting, and housing compliance. An FAA Part 107 Certified Drone Pilot and NFIP Flood Insurance Adjuster, Clyde has extensive expertise in residential property assessments, HUD Housing Quality Standards inspections, catastrophe claims, and construction estimating. His background in property inspections, regulatory compliance, and damage assessment enables him to deliver thorough, accurate evaluations while supporting safe, compliant housing and exceptional client service.

Russell McDaris is a HUD Inspector in Aoka. He has more than 25 years of experience in architecture, project management, and construction administration. Throughout his career, he has led complex commercial and multifamily developments from concept through construction, managing consultant coordination, regulatory requirements, and project delivery. Russell's expertise in building design, construction oversight, and quality assurance enables him to provide thorough property evaluations and support safe, compliant housing. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture.

Bibek Ghimire is dedicated Permitting Manager, he holds extensive experience in architectural design and project management. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from Tribhuvan University, with a specialization in Project Management. Bibek has contributed to several high-profile projects, including residential, commercial, and urban regeneration initiatives, ensuring the integration of innovative design with practical functionality. His expertise includes technical drawing, 3D modeling, and rendering, using software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp. Bibek excels in managing projects from concept to completion, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery while maintaining high-quality standards.

Joshana Adhikari is a Senior Accountant at Aoka, where she leads the day-to-day corporate accounting operations and ensures the overall financial health of the organization. In this role, Joshana manages high-level financial reporting, oversees internal controls, and provides critical oversight to support Aoka’s accounting department and business growth.

CA. Sandesh Badal is an Accountant at Aoka with nearly a decade of progressive experience in auditing, financial management, and tax consultancy across diverse industries including hospitality, construction, finance, healthcare, and NGOs. A Chartered Accountant with a Master’s in Business Studies (Accounting). He has managed compliance with tax regulations, and delivered high-level financial reporting and data analytics. Skilled in budgeting, internal controls, and cost optimization, Sandesh is proficient in accounting software such as Tally, QuickBooks, Xero, Navision, FAMAS, and advanced Excel for financial analysis. His expertise in GAAP, tax audits, and compliance enables him to drive accuracy, efficiency, and strategic insights in organizational finance.

Milan Shrestha has extensive experience in infrastructure development, construction supervision, and post-disaster reconstruction. He has contributed to various civil engineering projects across rural and urban settings, with expertise in project planning, cost estimation, and building code compliance. Milan previously worked with All Hands and Hearts/Relief Nepal, supporting earthquake recovery efforts through school reconstruction and community-based infrastructure. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from Pulchowk Campus, Tribhuvan University.

Chris Cantu is a Fire Inspector at Aoka, he has more than 26 years of experience in fire service, emergency response, and fire prevention. A Fire Lieutenant with extensive leadership experience, Chris has conducted commercial fire inspections, risk assessments, and aviation rescue and firefighting operations while ensuring compliance with fire and life safety regulations. He is certified as a Master Structure Firefighter, Intermediate Fire Inspector, Fire Officer I, Fire Instructor I, and Aircraft Rescue Firefighter.

Bryan Parker is a Fire Inspector at Aoka Engineering with over 25 years of experience in emergency response, fire rescue and safety inspections. He has served as a Fire Marshal for City of Grapevine, enforcing fire codes and conducting safety inspections. Bryan is skilled in managing complex investigations delivering actionable insights to support decision making. He is a two-time winner of peer reviewed Texas Fire Marshals association's "Excellence Reward".

Andrew Flores is a Fire Inspector with over 16 years of experience in emergency response and fire safety. He has advanced skills in firefighting, hazardous materials handling, fire code enforcement, and plans examination. With a strong track record in ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations, he is adept at performing thorough inspections and collaborating on the review of new business plans. Andrew is dedicated to maintaining public safety and upholding the highest standards in fire prevention and emergency response.

Jeremy Lucas brings decades of experience in fire safety, investigation, and emergency response since beginning his career in 1996. Rising through the ranks from Firefighter to Captain and Division Chief, he now leads with expertise and dedication. Jeremy holds an Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science from Columbia Southern University and multiple advanced certifications, including Firefighter, Arson Investigator, and Fire Inspector. He is also an Advanced Peace Officer, EMT, and certified instructor in both police and fire disciplines. Known for his critical thinking, empathetic leadership, and systematic approach, Jeremy is a trusted leader committed to public safety and community service.

Joe has over 30 years of experience working in different cities as Community Development Director, Building Commissioner, Deputy Building Commissioner, Building official, Plan Reviewer and Inspector. In these capacities, he has led building departments, planning and zoning departments, pubic work departments and worked closely with fire departments. His wide array of experience within building, fire, civil and planning codes make him a true expert. He has formed and run his own construction compliance company and has been running it successfully for over ten years. He is a Master Code Professional. Joe has an Associate Degree in Applied Science from St. Louis Community College.

David has over 20 years of experience working in various building departments as Plan Review Manager, Deputy Director of Planning and Zoning, Chief Building Official, and Director of Inspection Services. In these capacities, he has organized and led teams doing Building Inspection, Permit, Plan Review, Planning/Zoning, and Code Enforcement. He has organized new Plan Review divisions, provided council action items to town clerks, and presented policy/ ordinance adoptions to town council. He has conducted complex commercial and industrial plan reviews where he has presented special use permit, variance and potential zone changes. He has taught I-MPG, and NEC codes in academic and non-academic settings. David has a Bachelor’s degree in Municipal Operations and Management.

Jeremy Griffin is a highly certified Plans Examiner at Aoka with over 15 years of experience in residential and commercial inspections, plan review, and code enforcement. Formerly the Building Official for the City of Tomball and a Senior Building Inspector for the City of Houston, he has led inspection teams, reviewed complex structural and MEP plans, and resolved high-profile projects with precision. Holding more than 20 ICC certifications—including Master Code Professional, Certified Building Official, Plans Examiner, and Fire Marshal, Jeremy brings extensive knowledge of ADA, zoning, and safety codes. As President of the Houston Chapter of the ICC, he plays a key role in code development and industry leadership.

Edwin Alfaro is an experienced Plans Examiner and Project Manager with a strong background in architectural design, code compliance, and permit processing. With expertise in commercial and residential plan reviews, he has worked with various organizations to ensure projects meet local regulations. Currently, he is a Senior Plans Examiner applying his skills at Aoka Engineering, coordinating with developers, contractors, and city officials to streamline project approvals. Holding multiple certifications, including Building Plans Examiner and Accessibility Inspector, he is committed to maintaining high standards in construction and design compliance.

Ben Carr is a Senior Plans Examiner at Aoka, bringing more than a decade of experience in municipal building services, plan review, and code administration. A Certified Building Official (CBO) and Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM), Ben has led permitting, inspection, and building services operations for growing communities while streamlining review processes and maintaining regulatory compliance. His background as both a municipal building official and licensed general contractor provides a well-rounded perspective on construction, code enforcement, and customer service.

Kota Wharton, a certified Master Code Professional and Building Official, serves as a Building Plans Examiner. With a robust background in various code disciplines including fire protection, mechanical, and plumbing, Kota has played significant roles in ensuring public safety and compliance with building codes. Their experience extends to coordinating building permit processes and providing critical examinations across multiple departments. Kota's leadership roles in professional organizations highlight their dedication to maintaining the highest standards in building safety and code adherence.

Poley Birika is an experienced Building Plans Examiner with a strong background in the assessment and approval of building plans. They have a thorough understanding of various building codes and safety regulations, ensuring that all construction projects comply with local, state, and federal guidelines. Poley's expertise extends to both residential and commercial developments, where they effectively manage project reviews and collaborate with builders and developers to facilitate compliant project outcomes. Their role is crucial in maintaining the safety and standards of building construction within their jurisdiction.

Pepito Bunion is a highly experienced Building Plans Examiner with a solid background in civil engineering. With over two decades of experience, Pepito excels in reviewing commercial, residential, and industrial building plans to ensure compliance with applicable codes, ordinances, and zoning requirements. They hold a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the Mapúa Institute of Technology. Pepito's thorough understanding of plan examination and code compliance ensures the highest standards in building safety and regulation adherence.

Paul Eaton is a Building Plans Examiner at Aoka, bringing extensive experience in building code compliance, plan review, and construction management. A Master Code Professional (MCP), Certified Building Official (CBO), and Certified Sustainability Professional (CSP), Paul holds numerous International Code Council certifications spanning building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, fire, accessibility, energy, and zoning disciplines. He currently serves on the ICC Sustainability Exam Development Committee and combines technical expertise with a strong commitment to safe, sustainable, and code-compliant building practices.

Martin Kjelstad works with Aoka as a civil plans examiner. He is a licensed civil engineer in the state of Washington and has over 20 years of experience performing civil plan review. He is well versed in water, sewer, street and stormwater plan review and provides unique civil engineering expertise. Martin has a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering.

Ruben Lara is a Health Inspector at Aoka, with extensive experience in environmental health, food safety, and public health education. A Registered Sanitarian, Ruben has conducted inspections of food establishments, schools, public facilities, and environmental health systems while ensuring compliance with state and local regulations. He also has experience investigating foodborne illness complaints, performing certificate of occupancy inspections, and engaging with diverse communities through public health outreach. Ruben holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health with a concentration in Epidemiology and Disease Control from The University of Texas at San Antonio.

Sid Rivers, AICP is a Planner at Aoka with over two decade of experience in land-use planning, zoning, and development review. She has supported local governments, tribal organizations, and community groups through complex development applications, regulatory compliance, and grant-funded projects. Sid brings strong expertise in project management, public engagement, grant compliance, and environmental justice. She holds a Master’s degree in Urban Planning and Public Administration and is a Certified Planner with the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).

Kevin Simon is a Code Enforcement Officer at Aoka with extensive experience in code enforcement, property management, building inspections, customer relations, and public service. He has more than 25 years of experience, including expertise in investigating code violations, inspecting complex buildings and properties, managing customer complaints, supporting regulatory compliance, and training field personnel.

Brandi Wise is a Proposal Manager at Aoka with over 6 years of experience managing successful Federal, State, and Local government proposals. She specializes in RFP and RFQ management, technical writing, compliance reviews, proposal strategy, and cross-functional coordination. Brandi’s expertise in government contracting, AWS cloud frameworks, and process development helps drive high-quality, compliant submissions and operational efficiency across Aoka’s proposal operations.

Pierce Lemaster is a Code Enforcement Officer, bringing a strong background in public safety, municipal compliance, and security. He is a Registered Code Enforcement Officer. He is pursuing his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice at the University of North Texas. Pierce’s dedication to community education and conflict resolution makes him a vital addition to the Aoka team.

Shriya Chaubey is an HR Administrator at Aoka, She has experience over a decade of administrative and HR leadership across the development and corporate sectors. Specialized in human resource function management, and she possesses deep expertise in policy formulation, statutory compliance, and end-to-end workforce planning. Backed by a master’s in commerce, she excels at implementing robust, people-centered HR systems that align organizational talent with overarching strategic objectives.

Colby Cox is a Business Development Associate at Aoka, with a robust background in strategic outreach, team leadership, and client engagement. Colby previously directed large-scale operations as a regional mission leader, managing and mentoring over 200 personnel. Highly resilient and goal-oriented, Colby leverages his advanced interpersonal skills and mastery of relationship-building to overcome objections, connect with new clients, and drive strategic business growth.