Bryce Teel
Full Name: Bryce Teel
Education/Professional Certifications:
Appalachian State University, Business Management
Company: TEEL Construction, Inc.
Title: Director of Business Development
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- 2024 DL Committee Co-Chair
- 2023 DL Sub Committee Co-Chair of the Philanthropy Committee
- 2023 NAIOP Northern Virginia Firm of the year)
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 11 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? Since 2019
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I wear a lot of hats, but the main responsibilities of my role involve bringing in new opportunities through the door, and working with the preconstruction and operations team to help ensure we land them. After project award, I work in a Project Executive role on many of the projects I've been involved with to ensure we're meeting or exceeding our clients' expectations. As far as my background goes, I've touched almost every department at the company at some point in my career - from filing invoices for the accounting team during high school, to estimating, to assistant project management, to acting as a superintendent, and finally to project management prior to my current role.
What is your ultimate career goal?
I want to continue to grow TEEL and our brand in the commercial construction industry, and to provide more opportunities for our team's continued growth and advancement.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I hadn't seriously considered joining the family business until after college. During my senior year of college I opened a jewelry and piercing studio with some friends. While we were operating the shop, I was also managing a furniture store just outside my college town to bring in some extra income. The studio was doing well, but it wasn't drumming up enough business to support all my partners and me. I was speaking with my Dad one day, and he mentioned they were busy, and could use some help, so I decided to sell my portion of the business to one of my partners, and move back to Northern VA - the rest is history. I'm eternally grateful to the owner of the furniture shop for not paying me more at the time, as I probably wouldn't be here today if he had...
What's your favorite building or development project?
The Flatiron Building in NYC. It's a great example of doing a lot with a little.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
I confess that I may have a slight Audible addiction (over 13 months of total listening time to date), so I'm going to pick a few from the library.
- Freakonomics by Steven Levitt & Stephen Dubner (shout out to another App State Alum)
- Anything by Andy Weir (The Martian & Project Hail Mary were amazing)
- How I Built This by Guy Raz
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Reputation is everything. The commercial real estate industry is a very small community, and word spreads if you are an upstanding company. Additionally, communication is the biggest driver for success. If you're open, forthright and timely with your communication, it goes a long way.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP has been a great benefit to my career. From expanding my network, making long lasting friendships, having a current pulse on the market, NAIOP's advocacy for the industry in Richmond, and more, you get a lot more out of the organization than you put into it. The NAIOP staff are amazing, and are a fount of knowledge. They really go out of their way to help in any way they can.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Spending time with the family. I have a two year old with another one coming in April. The one manages to monopolize most of my free time, so we'll see how much I'll be able to devote to the below after the second arrives...
- Traveling. I like to get at least one trip out of the country per year. I love experiencing new cultures and foods.
- Enjoying the outdoors. Be it golf, hiking or being out on the water, it's great to get out of the house.
Profiled April 2024
Nicole Fiorucci
Full Name: Nicole Fiorucci
Education/Professional Certifications:
George Mason University, Bachelors in Communications
Company: Able Moving & Storage
Title: Marketing Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Developing Leaders Philanthropy Subcommittee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 2 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 year
What are your current responsibilities and background?
My current responsibilities include planning and executing all marketing initiatives for Able Moving & Storage. I manage the digital campaigns, social media content, public relations, blogs, website, collateral and marketing outreach to support Able's strategic growth plan. I also manage the calendar of internal, recruiting and philanthropic events.
I have a bachelors degree in communications with a focus on public relations, and I minored in both journalism and event management.
Prior to joining Able Moving & Storage, I managed email marketing for an international IT and leadership training company.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Ultimately, I would like to own my own marketing company specializing in video storytelling - whether it's long videos, short ones for social media and tik-tok, or advertising.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
When I first joined Able Moving & Storage, I was a commercial move coordinator. Since I have a background in events management, the skills transfered well. I enjoyed learning about the buildings and spaces where we did the moves and seeing how the overall projects came together. After I was promoted to the marketing team, I was encouraged by my boss, Kim Dize, to join NAIOP to learn more about the industry and make connections. I have learned so much about commercial real estate since then!
What's your favorite building or development project?
I am a big fan of the Wharf because there are so many things to do - music, events at any time, good food, and activities. Overlooking the Potomac River, it is beautiful location to just walk around!
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- 7 Cat's Cradle - Kurt Vonnegut
- 7 Tuesdays with Morrie - Mitch Albom
- 7 The Handmaids Tale - Margaret Atwood
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Choose to work for good leadership! The attitude of a company's leadership trickles through the employees and work atmosphere.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
Joining NAIOP and being part of the DL Committee has really helped me re-emerge from my shell, post COVID. At first, I was really shy but everyone has been so nice and welcoming that it didn't take long to warm up, and now I look forward to attending events. Being involved with DL and the Philanthropy Subcommittee has helped me grow my network and gain new experience working with non-profits.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Go on adventures with my dogs, Chewbacca and Jade.
- Yoga and pilates to keep healthy physically and mentally.
- Designing floral arrangements, usually just for friends' events or around the house, but I love any opportunity for hands-on creativity!
Profiled January 2024
Nicholas "Nick" Prieto
Full Name: Nicholas "Nick" Prieto
Education/Professional Certifications:
University of South Carolina, B.A. Environmental Studies and Policy
Company: L.F. Jennings
Title: Business Development Coordinator
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- DL Social Subcommittee, Chair
- Government Relations Committee
- Fairfax Government Relations Subcommittee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 2 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 2 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I have one of the best jobs in the world! I currently identify and develop new business opportunities for each of L.F. Jennings' three offices (Falls Church, Richmond and Raleigh). I spend much of my time doing market research, attending events, maintaining client relationships, and coordinating promotional activities. I also keep track of leads, assist with marketing efforts, and help wherever I can to continue the premium service L.F. Jennings provides.
Before working at Jennings I was a graduate from the University of South Carolina where I studied environmental studies and policy. At South Carolina I was appointed director of lobbying and served as the student liaison to the General Assembly. I also interned for a Maryland state senator and pursued politics before joining the Jennings team. Lobbying is much like business development and I learned many skills which assist me in my role at L.F. Jennings.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My ultimate career goal is obviously to be financially strong but to also be a leader in business development that is respected in the industry and has created an extremely strong network. Having a strong network not only benefits your professional career, it helps your overall life. Through networking and building relationships, I have created lasting friendships. I also would like to use my interest in politics and government relations to promote and advocate for the building and real estate industry at a higher level.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I did not plan on working in the commercial real estate industry, however, after I was approached for the business development coordinator position, I began doing more research into the industry and L.F. Jennings. Being able to be a part of something bigger than yourself is what life is all about. I saw the opportunity to be a place maker, create housing for people, and revive old buildings. L.F. Jennings has a tremendous reputation, and it is ultimately what convinced me to join the team. Our team makes my job extremely easy as we provide superior service and deliver a quality product.
What's your favorite building or development project?
My favorite project is The St. James. This sport and entertainment complex is over 450,000 SF and spans over 20 acres. The state of the art facility includes a 110,00 SF field house, 8 regulation basketball courts, a spa and wellness center, restaurants, a fitness center, 2 NHL regulation ice rinks, Olympic size pools and so much more. Easily one of my favorite completed projects....talk about quality L. F. Jennings, Inc.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- 7 Habits of Highly Successful People
- Washington: A Life
- The Chesapeake Almanac.
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
The biggest lesson I've learned so far is to get involved! The more you put in, the more you will get out. Meeting people and expanding your network is extremely important in my role. You never know who you are talking to so treat them with respect. There's a deal in every room!
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP Northern Virginia has been an extremely important in my profession career. I was instructed to join NAIOP within my first week at L.F. Jennings, and it was the best decision I made. Through NAIOP networking I have found leads, sealed deals, and created friendships that will hopefully last a lifetime. I always have support from NAIOP's amazing staff, and I have been fortunate enough to take advantage of our chapter's professional development and educational opportunities.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Volunteering for the National Capital Chapter of Ducks Unlimited.
Profiled October 2023
Nicole Hogeboom
Full Name: Nicole Hogeboom
Education/Professional Certifications:
Marymount University, BA Interior Design, VA CID, NCIDQ
Company: FMStudios
Title: Partner/Project Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Philanthropy Sub-Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 14 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 3 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
My current responsibilities include project management of commercial interior architecture projects. This entails interfacing with clients, end users, landlords, client vendors, and my internal project team to design tenant spaces from space planning through construction administration. I work primarily on workplace/office design with a focus on secure space design. As a partner, I also work on marketing and business development to grow existing relationships and build new ones. For the past 11 years I have worked at FMStudios. Previously I have worked for an office furniture dealer and a design firm specializing the retail space.
What is your ultimate career goal?
I enjoy the technical and creative side of Interior Design in my current role. My ultimate career goal would be to build on that and lead a large scale tenant build out project from the initial programming and planning through construction administration.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I have wanted to be in Interior Design since I discovered the profession in middle school. I have always enjoyed being creative while also being technically minded and detail oriented. Interior Design has been a great fit for me. Realizing that I wanted to work in commercial interiors led to the connection to commercial real estate. I enjoy workplace design because the majority of people spend most of their week working. Prior to 2020 that was primarily in an office and since then it has been fascinating to observe and participate in the shifting dynamics of the workplace as it continues to involve the tangible space as well as the culture the space fosters.
What's your favorite building or development project?
This is tough, as a graduate of Marymount University who spent a lot of time in the Ballston area, I have to say Ballston Quarter. The complexity of the development to include existing buildings, renovations, and the new pedestrian walkway across Wilson Blvd was really interesting to witness. The end result and development of other parts of the area have really made it a true destination.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Nightingale
- David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants
- Tuesdays with Morrie
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
It's more than ok to ask questions, and follow up questions. If you don't ask the right questions, you don't get to the right solutions or answers. It goes hand in hand, but it's also ok to not have all the answers.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
It has helped me meet more people and provide networking opportunities. It has also helped me learn more about adjacent areas that make up Commercial Real Estate.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Spend time with my daughter and husband
- Read
- Try new restaurants
Profiled April 2023
Jennifer Moore
Full Name: Jennifer Moore
Education/Professional Certifications:
George Mason University, MS, Real Estate Development
Frostburg State University, BS, Mass Communication, Minor - Graphic Design
Company: Brambleton Group
Title: Vice President of Operations
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Government Relations Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 13 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 3 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
My duties include vetting land acquisitions, working with the management team to complete entitlements, proffer compliance, and managing our commercial portfolio. In addition to strategic planning and goal setting, I maintain communication with elected officials at the local, state and federal levels.
What is your ultimate career goal?
I enjoy development - it iss both a science and an art, ever changing and high energy. My ultimate career goal is to continue to work in development and have a seat at the table where decisions are being made about the future of Northern Virginia.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I am a Loudoun local and Brambleton is right down the road from where I grew up. I was energized by the idea that I could work for a company that is helping shape the future of Loudoun County.
What's your favorite building or development project?
There are so many to choose from!
- Development - Brambleton for its intentional design, placemaking, and sense of community.
- Building - Fuse at Mason Square in Arlington currently under development- excellent design, an economic driver, and net-zero building. Looking forward to seeing the finished product.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Emotional Intelligence 2.0
- The Devil in the White City
- The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Ask questions! The "why" is so important and in turn you are learning from those around you.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
Mark Hassinger said if you aren't joining all of the industry organizations you are missing out! Being a member of NAIOP was the first organization I joined after my very first class at GMU - I immediately was exposed to the Developing Leaders as well as the Government Relations committees - these are excellent networking opportunities as well as sources of information that affect day to day RE development.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Family time with my husband, Chance, and our 1 year old son, Mason!
- Any activity on the Peloton
- Playing and coaching volleyball
Profiled January 2023
Taylor Malbon
Full Name: Taylor Malbon
Education/Professional Certifications:
George Mason University, MS, Real Estate Development
Virginia Tech, BS, Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Technology
Company: Weber Rector Commercial Real Estate Services
Title: Commercial Agent
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Government Relations Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 6 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? New Member!
What are your current responsibilities and background?
My current responsibilities with Weber Rector Commercial Real Estate Services include representing clients wishing to acquire, develop, sell or lease commercial property across all product categories.
Prior to joining Weber Rector Commercial Real Estate Services, I gained 6 years years of experience in commercial/industrial construction management. Upon graduating from Virginia Tech I began my career in the Tidewater area construction industry where I gained experience in both estimating and project management. In 2019, I moved to Northern Virginia to pursue a Masters in Real Estate Development (MRED) from George Mason University (GMU). While enrolled at GMU I worked in project management for a national multifamily builder, CBG Building Company, on multiple projects in Washington DC. I have been fortunate to combine my graduate degree course work in real estate finance, investment analysis, market analysis, entitlements, and site planning with real world construction experience.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My goal is to work through the entire development process to help create beneficial spaces for communities.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I have always enjoyed creating value out of the unexpected. I see commercial real estate as a challenge to create additional value out of vacant land or existing spaces.
What's your favorite building or development project?
The Rowan in Washington, DC. The Rowan is a 10 story, 353 unit apartment building in the Brookland neighborhood of DC. The project included below grade parking, post tension concrete, rooftop pool and plenty of interactive amenity spaces. I have a slight bias towards this project as I was part of the team who built the project and was able to see the construction process from the demolition phase to final completion. A big part of what makes this project my favorite is it was built during the pandemic and our team, like many others, worked through a tremendous amount unexpected factors centered around supply chain issues, manpower, and continuously updated safety protocols. Through creativity and creating contingency plans for all factors of construction we were able to deliver the building on time.
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Clear communication, if everyone is on the same page there is less of a chance of unexpected surprises.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
I am excited to be a new member of NAIOP! I have had the opportunity to attend a couple NAIOP events and can tell NAIOP will help grow my career by the experienced network of resources the NAIOP community creates.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Virginia Tech Athletics, doesn't get much better than jumping to Enter Sandman or watching a basketball game in Cassell Coliseum!
- Country music concerts
- Traveling
Profiled October 2022
Rameez Munawar
Full Name: Rameez Munawar
Education/Professional Certifications:
Master of Real Estate Development, University of Maryland
Bachelor of Science in Architecture, University of Maryland
Company: Jamestown L.P.
Title: Vice President, Asset Management
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Education Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 8 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 year
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I have worked on the asset management and development side of the industry my entire career. First with Columbia Property Trust, then with Jair Lynch, and now with Jamestown. I work on most of our DC portfolio which is roughly 3 million square feet across 10 assets, including 1.5 million square feet in Georgetown and Capitol Hill. Asset management covers everything related to value creation including leasing, capital projects, refinancing, marketing/rebranding, and much more. I have a dual background in real estate and architecture which has helped me identify which strategies to pursue and our collaborative team at Jamestown has been supporting the effort.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Large scale adaptive reuse projects are the most fascinating to me. They're complex from all angles, whether its design, construction, or financing. I've had the opportunity to work on a few at various stages in the process but to complete one of meaningful scale from acquisition to disposition would be one of the goals.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I knew that I wanted to be involved in the built environment ever since I was a kid. Growing up I was always fascinated with construction sites and that eventually converted into studying architecture at the University of Maryland. They have a phenomenal program there but ultimately I wanted to increase my scope of work related to buildings so I pursued studying real estate in graduate school. That naturally led to a career in commercial real estate and I am fortunate to have had solid mentors along the way.
What's your favorite building or development project?
That's a good question. There are so many unique building typologies across the region that it's difficult to choose. In DC my list is the House of Sweden, the atrium at America's Square, 1900 N Street, and MLK Library. In Virginia, it's Valo Park, Reston Station, and the new Virginia Tech Innovation Campus in Alexandria.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
- Pitch Perfect by Bill McGowan
- The Art of War for Executives by Donald Krause
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Treat everyone with respect, you never know what someone is going through or when you may cross paths with them again.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Building architectural models, it is the aspect of architecture school I enjoyed the most and still do regularly
- Reading, between articles and books it is probably 15 hours a week
- Golf, I had never picked up a club before covid but it is quickly becoming a free time activity
Profiled February 2022
Shane MacGregor
Full Name: Shane MacGregor
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration: Marketing and Business Management, Liberty University
Company: Building Infrastructure Group
Title: Communications Consultant
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Philanthropy Subcommittee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 6 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 year
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I am part of a Virginia-based communications team that provides design and installation of critical infrastructure. Building Infrastructures Groups services include structured cabling, audio-visual (AV), wireless networks, and security. As an audio visual Communications Consultant, I use my years of experience in AV to help my clients establish and execute their office technology plan. I serve as the main point of contact during the planning stage and then work with my team of project managers to ensure the plan is integrated as planned.
During my junior year of my bachelors degree, I received a call for a full time position for an audio visual consultant. I interviewed on a Saturday and started full time two weeks later. While working full time, I finished my bachelors degree just a year later and the rest is history.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My goal is to become a well known DMV-based point of contact for all things low voltage. My hope is that I can be an audio-visual resource for project managers, IT managers, and facility managers alike. At the end of the day, my goal is to create connections with like-minded people and make technology easier to integrate.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
My career goals never specifically involved commercial real estate, I just knew I wanted to be a resource for others and create lasting relationships. Being involved in this market just happens to be a bonus. I truly have enjoyed my time in NAIOP and working with others in the Developing Leaders Committee.
What's your favorite building or development project?
I personally enjoyed working on projects like Ballston Exchange in Arlington, and the Wharf in the district. The Ballston project because of the wonderful building management at Cushman & Wakefield. The Wharf has a special place in my heart because it is one of my favorite spots to grab drinks and dinner before walking over to watch D.C. United play at Audi Field.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho is a wonderful short fiction. It's a really good reminder of what is important in life and how we need to trust our hearts when making important decisions.
- "The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien is a must for those looking for an adventure. It is a classic and follows a small hobbit while on a big adventure.
- "12 Rules for Life" by Jordan Peterson is a really good read. It has a lot of tips for taking control of your life and working towards your goals.
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
I have learned that finding a balance between work, family, and life is really important. Sometimes things get out of balance and I need to get things back on track. Also putting others first has been the catalyst for most success in my life.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP has introduced me to some of the most genuine and caring people I know. The conversations within the committee and sub-committees have really broadened by understanding of the market in the DMV. Communicating with like-minded professionals often gives me confidence when meeting with potential partners and clients, outside of NAIOP. I highly recommend NAIOP to any other professionals looking to grow their personal network and share their expertise.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Coaching AAU basketball in the DMV
- Fly Fishing and Camping in the mountains
- Spending time with my nephews and niece
Profiled July 2021
Samantha Suehiro
Full Name: Samantha Suehiro (but please call me Sam!)
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Arts, UCLA
Juris Doctor, Vanderbilt Law School
Company: Chicago Title National Commercial Services
Title: Vice President, Business Development Executive
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
-Social Events Subcommittee
-Wellness Subcommittee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 7 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 10 months
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I am part of a DC-based team that is comprised of the very best title experts, underwriters, escrow officers, coordinators, and post-closing professionals in the industry. In my role as Business Development Executive, I use my background in title and law to meaningfully contribute to the closing process and advocate for my customers within nationwide commercial transactions. I also serve as a single point-of-contact for single or multi-site commercial closings from coast-to-coast.
I host a virtual happy hour called Sippin' with Sam, during which special guests discuss their current projects or developments. All members of our industry are welcome to attend! I hope to transition to in-person happy hours soon.
I graduated from law school in 2014 and joined the Fidelity Family of Companies as an Associate Claims Counsel. I eventually advanced to VP, Managing Counsel and managed the simultaneous resolution of over 1,000 commercial and residential title insurance claims submitted under owners' and lenders' title insurance policies. I know title insurance like the back of my hand and use this knowledge to find creative solutions for my customers.
What is your ultimate career goal?
I want to continue to expand my expertise within commercial real estate and become a designated title asset for industry professionals. I want to be their first stop for title and escrow questions. I hope they will know that I am always happy to assist with research, even when I am not formally working on the deal. I also enjoy connecting people and hope to one day be a "super connector." I want to always connect people with the people they want to know.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Growing up, my dad was in the commercial real estate industry and I was always very intrigued by his work. In law school, I gravitated towards real estate classes and was thrilled to get a job in the industry upon graduation.
What's your favorite building or development project?
I am enjoying watching the progress with the Port Covington development in Baltimore. My office closed and insured the initial redevelopment phase of the project. Matt Barlow was the lead title insurance underwriter for the deal and was a special guest during one of my Sippin' with Sam happy hours.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- I am currently reading "Better Places, Better Lives; a Biography of James Rouse" by Joshua Olsen. I am fascinated by Mr. Rouse's career and am drawn to many of his ideas. I was especially inspired by his realization that industry-involvement was complementary to his career. This is something that is now very obvious to me and has encouraged my involvement within NAIOP and other organizations.
- "The Gifts of Imperfection" by Brene Brown. I think everyone deserves a reminder that imperfections are normal and healthy!
- "The Lost Art of Connecting" by Susan McPherson, which contributed to my desire to be a "super connector."
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
That you have to put yourself out there and take risks to achieve success. You have to bet on yourself and be resilient at all times.
What is the expression? You miss 100% of the shots you don't take!
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP has facilitated my introduction to many people who I know will be mentors and friends for years to come.
Shout out to Ed Zaptin. Ed was on the panel during the New Office Model program. During the program, he mentioned a cold call he received and appreciated. This gave me the confidence I needed and, sure enough, Ed received a cold call from me shortly thereafter. He then provided me with great advice during a virtual lunch. We also learned that we both have multiple dogs, including a Vizsla!
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Spending time with my husband, Yuji, and our three dogs, Franz the Vizsla, Maisy the Mini Aussie, and Ollie the Lab/Hound.
- Exercising - particularly yoga and Peloton
- Knitting and crocheting stuffed animals for my nephews
Profiled June 2021
Nick Lane
Full Name: Nick Lane
Education/Professional Certifications:
BS Mechanical Engineering, University of Maryland; Professional Engineer; Project Management Professional
Company: Siemens Industry, Inc.
Title: Business Development Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee (Education and Philanthropy subcommittees)
- Membership Committee
- DL Mentor Program
- Development 101
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 9 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1.5 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
My current responsibilities involve engaging with stakeholders throughout the CRE industry to educate and implement Smart Building Solutions. Some days this looks like a Lunch and Learn for an MEP or Architecture firm, while others it could involve pursuing a Design Assist opportunity with a developer. I enjoy both high level conversations about the future of the built environment and looking closely into plans and specs to improve a specific deliverable.
I previously held the roles of Engineer, Project Manager and Team Leader on the Operations team at Siemens.
What is your ultimate career goal?
I view my career more in terms of the journey than the destination. Of course, it's important to set and pursue goals, but to me it's far more important that along the way I am challenging myself and providing value to others. I love the intersection of real estate and technology because both are dynamic fields that have huge impact on our communities. Technology has so much potential to enhance the way we interact with the people and places around us, and I want to help the DMV embrace those opportunities. If I end up owning the Washington Football Team by the end of my career, that will be the cherry on top.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
My interest in CRE began in college while studying mechanical engineering and learning about building systems. I started out working on HVAC controls, which grew into Smart Building systems, and eventually led me to the larger world of commercial real estate. If technology is going to live up to the potential I mentioned earlier, we need to do a better job of understanding the needs and motivations of stakeholders throughout the industry. I see my involvement in CRE as a way to better understand how technology and real estate can evolve together and ultimately provide more value to our diverse communities.
What's your favorite building or development project?
One of my favorite buildings of the past few years is the American Geophysical Union Headquarters in Northwest DC. It's easy to find people who want to talk about sustainability, but AGU put their money where their mouth is and set out to become the first Net-Zero Energy building in DC. From electrochromic glass to the rooftop PV arrays, there are some cool innovations helping AGU achieve their energy goals. I'm looking forward to seeing others in the region follow the ambitious lead of AGU in challenging the status quo of sustainability in the built environment.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Never Eat Alone – This is a must-read for anyone who does a lot of networking and a should-read for everyone else. One of my big takeaways from the NAIOP Mentor Program!
- The Tipping Point – I love anything by Malcom Gladwell (including his podcast!), but especially enjoyed this book about how ideas are spread.
- The Bible – Especially during a tough year, I'm grateful for a book that has always provided me peace and hope.
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Early in my career I felt pressure to always have the right answer and to never make mistakes. The biggest lesson I've learned is that people want to help. I've been fortunate to work with some great people who have taught me so much. I believe the world is a better place when people are looking for ways to help each other, and I'm grateful to be a part of that cycle.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP provides so many opportunities for members to grow. I've learned about every aspect of the development process and the importance of good government relations. I've networked with influential decision makers across the region and I've built relationships with my peers. Most recently, the DL Committee created a Parents Subgroup where we can connect in a meaningful way in a world where our personal and professional lives have become more blurred than ever. (If you're a parent under 35, join us!)
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Chase my kids around – If you've ever had a 4-year-old son or 2-year-old daughter, you know there's a lot of chasing. I wouldn't trade it for anything.
- Everything Sports – I love pickup games whenever possible and I'll always cheer for my Terps and all Washington sports teams.
- Being Outdoors – One of my favorite places is Adirondack Park in upstate New York. There's something incredible about turning off the devices and getting on top of a mountain.
Profiled March 2021
Molly Statler
Full Name: Molly Statler
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Arts from Washington College
Major in Business Administration & Minor in Art History
Company: PGAL
Title: Director of Business Development
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- DL Committee
- Awards Committee
- NAIOP Mentorship Program
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 5 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
As Director of Business Development for our Alexandria, Virginia office, my responsibilities include promoting business opportunities and brand recognition for PGAL through networking and involvement in local organizations, such as NAIOP Northern Virginia. Established in 1989, the PGAL Alexandria office has primarily focused on aviation projects nationwide, including terminal design, airline operation spaces, and airline lounges. In 2015, PGAL brought me on to diversify the firm's local portfolio and to develop and establish relationships in the region. As part of my role, I oversee local marketing efforts including social media, community engagement, and external marketing campaigns. I am also responsible for opportunity identification, selection, management, and production of the responses to RFP's. Working closely with our team, I have been a key player in the development of new opportunities locally within the corporate office sector and we hope to continue to establish a strong presence in the region. My goal is to continue to grow our firm's presence locally while still maintaining our aviation expertise nationwide. Currently, our team is working on the design of a local aviation project, the New North Concourse which will replace Gate 35X at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My ultimate career goal would be to become an industry expert in both the local commercial real estate market and nationally in the aviation sector.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Like many other individuals in the industry, I was not expecting to work in the commercial real estate market. I stumbled into the industry through a connection from one of the architects at my firm. The opportunity was exciting and something I knew nothing about which motivated me to make the change. More importantly, what has motivated me to stay is the sense of community and the ability to have an impact on the region in which we live. My continued efforts at PGAL are rooted in this desire to maintain our connection with the local area.
What's your favorite building or development project?
Favorite Buildings (Wonder Bread Factory & The Line Hotel) - Adaptive re-use projects are my favorite type of development. The necessity of incorporating and preserving their history leads to the design of unique and compelling spaces, such as the Wonder Bread Factory and the Line Hotel. The Wonder Bread Factory's iconic industrial facade was preserved to recognize its importance as a historic building in DC. The Line Hotel, formerly the First Church of Christ - Scientist, includes a preserved facade and interior elements, which drive the design and experience of the space. The organ pipes were re-purposed into a chandelier in the check-in lobby and the Hymnal Boards are used for room numbers, embracing the buildings prior purpose and history.
Favorite Development (14th St./U St.) - For me, I believe that each development has unique characteristics that meet different individuals' needs and expectations at all stages of life. At this stage in my life, I would consider the 14th St./U St. neighborhood my favorite but I am biased because I live here. I chose to live in this neighborhood because of the access to great retail and restaurant options. The area is both walkable and metro accessible. The neighborhood blends new development while maintaining some of the local culture. In between the side streets of beautifully colored row houses, you can walk out onto 14th street to find people strolling the farmers market, heading to the gym, or running their errands at Trader Joe's or Whole Foods. The nightlife and weekends are just as lively with people out and about enjoying this part of the city and all that is has to offer.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
One world renowned read I would mention is "How to Win Friends & Influence People" by Dale Carnegie. This self-help book was published in 1931 and has managed to remain relevant throughout the decades. Aside from that book, I typically read for fun and find myself reading mostly fiction. That being said, I do listen to several news and self-help podcasts including "Happier with Gretchen Ruben", "Ted Talks Daily", "How I Built This", "UpFirst", "Skimm'd from the Couch" & "Let's Have A Drink | DC". My guilty pleasures are "Crime Junkie" & "My Favorite Murder".
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Challenging yourself to do something that scares you is the only way to learn and overcome that fear. When you continue to challenge yourself, you develop new skills and continue to grow. You won't learn anything new if you don't try.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP Northern Virginia has given me the opportunity to network, learn from, and engage with influential commercial real estate professionals. The organization has equipped me with the knowledge and tools I need to be successful in my role and provided me the community and support to establish a presence in the industry. The network of individuals from NAIOP have become friends, clients, mentors, and references.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
Running, Yoga & Beer Flights (particularly Sours, Amber Ales & Saisons)
Profiled March 2020
Sara Kaplan
Full Name: Sara Kaplan
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Architecture from Virginia Tech - College of Architecture and Urban Studies
LEED GA
Company: The M Group Architects + Interior Architects
Title: Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 5 1/2 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 year
What are your current responsibilities and background?
The M Group has been elevating the design world of Northern Virginia and beyond since 1987. We have one mission: to design outstanding facilities that are functional, creative, buildable, and affordable. We pride ourselves on creating an atmosphere of honest collaboration and timely communication with our clients, allowing the design process to flow smoothly and ultimately produce a design that our clients will enjoy for years to come. As a manager with the M Group, I work with team members, architects and interior designers, to uphold the mission of our firm throughout each project. I am currently involved in tenant interiors, capital improvements and leasing support, and mission critical work in the commercial real estate market throughout the area and beyond Virginia's borders.
What is your ultimate career goal?
I always strive to give 100% to my firm and my clients. This means constantly learning and evolving as a designer, and continuing to gain knowledge and experience in the world of architecture + design, with the goal of one day leading a firm according the values and expertise I have developed along the way. I hope to one day reflect on my professional career and see the accomplishments, the failures, and the lessons that have bettered the communities and people that I've served.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
At the age of 2 years old I would come home from daycare and sit beneath the kitchen table, stacking cans for hours. I did this every day, without fail and with great intensity. Fast forward to today, that interest in design, a form of construction, and canned green beans has stuck with me. I was fortunate to be given an opportunity with The M Group to delve into the world of commercial architecture and real estate over 5 years ago, and I have never looked back. Commercial real estate, particularly in the Northern Virginia market, is constantly growing and evolving, keeping us all on our toes and looking toward the future. I am curious and excited to see what the landscape of the commercial world looks like in 5, 10, 20 years, and what impacts I may be lucky enough to have.
What's your favorite building or development project?
Being an architect, it is difficult to choose one building or project as a favorite. One that has always been a constant in my design influences is Tadao Ando's Church of Light. The simplicity and power of the architectural language elevates the space beyond a physical structure. It is a destination that I have had on my bucket list for a long time, and I hope to one day be able to experience the significance of his design in person.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson - While not related to design or real estate, this is a fantastic book that walks you through a hike of the Appalachian trail. Filled with facts and history, along with a personal account, it reminds me to be present in the now and grounds the sometimes overwhelming world we live in.
- Garden Cities of To-morrow by Ebenezer Howard - This was a book we read in my architecture studio, and was my first connection between the architectural world and my own reality, living in Northern Virginia. The book describes the concept of Garden Cities (providing benefits of both town and country, balancing individual and community needs), which was the original concept and development influence for Reston.
- Becoming an Architect by Lee W. Waldrep - While not the most exciting book, it prepared me for life after school, in the real world. Entering the work force can be a scary time, full of uncertainty and excitement. There was great advice for budding architects and designers, with insights into the field and the unlimited potential in a career as an architect.
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
While I've learned many lessons in the relatively short time I have been an architect, one that speaks to professional and personal journeys is learning from your failures and mistakes. You will have missteps throughout your life, and it's what you gain from those experiences and how you grow as an individual that can propel you forward, better prepared for the next challenge ahead.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP Northern Virginia, and particularly the Developing Leaders Committee, has provided networking and educational resources beyond my initial expectations. I have been developing friendships and professional relationships that will continue to serve me and those I've connected with for many years. The educational opportunities have given me insight into facets of the commercial real estate world that I may not have otherwise been exposed to, which only adds to my arsenal as an architect and member of the real estate community.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- I always have a project happening at home, usually at 80-90% completion and I just have to get over the last hurdle. I enjoy design and playing with ideas and trends in my home, even when my husband reminds me that we have half spray-painted objects in the garage and paint samples on the walls that have been there for 2 months.
- My dogs are a huge part of my life, and I enjoy taking them for walks, watching them run circles at the dog park, or just playing tug of war with their latest toy obsession. No matter what happens in my day, I can always count on them to put a smile on my face.
- Honestly, I also love to relax in my spare time. The region we live in has a real go-go-go mentality and it can be taxing to run at such a high level of intensity. Whether it's watching sports, the latest criminal investigation documentary, or just taking a few minutes to close my eyes, relaxation is key to thriving in a busy world.
Profiled February 2020
Brett Burnette
Full Name: Brett Burnette
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Science, Business Management/Leadership Minor; Virginia Tech
Company: Peterson Companies
Title: Manager, Development
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Government Relations Committee
- Fairfax Government Relations Subcommittee
- Loudoun Government Relations Subcommittee
- Prince William Government Relations Subcommittee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 7 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 year
What are your current responsibilities and background?
My team is involved in all aspects of our new development projects. I help steer projects from land acquisition, through design and entitlements/permitting, leasing and construction. Peterson is a private developer with more than 50 years of experience building transformational projects in the DC Metro area, and we are always looking for the next challenging and rewarding project to take on. Our goal is always to positively impact the communities we serve and create exceptional destinations that enrich the regional economy. I am currently involved with projects ranging from retail shopping centers, mixed-use, data centers, to sports tourism fieldhouse projects. In addition our company develops various residential communities, office, destination retail and storage.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My goal is to constantly be improving and learning, whether from my experienced colleagues, friends in the industry, or from the changing commercial real estate landscape as a whole. I would hope to one day be leading a team through the development process on multiple projects and help others to grow in the industry like so many have helped me. My passion, outside of real estate, is to help others and challenge myself in the process. I hope to be able to look back at my career and see the positive impact I had on the community as well as individuals.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Growing up in Northern Virginia, I have been surrounded by transformational commercial real estate projects my entire life and always wanted to understand how they happened. After starting my career in the real estate finance world, I become fascinated by companies that were trying to change the paradigm of the built environment. I made the switch to the ownership side of the business with a large grocery retailer who was in an aggressive expansion. Having worked for several years with many developers, I knew I wanted to spend my career helping to design and bring these transformation projects to fruition. I truly love what I do and look forward to being able to show my future children the real estate world that I have helped transform.
What's your favorite building or development project?
I have really enjoyed watching the waterfront areas of the DC Metro area be developed over the last 10 years. National Harbor and The Wharf are not only two of my favorite projects in this area, but two places I really love to spend time. Enjoy the outdoor restaurant seating, catch a show, or hop on the water taxi to get between the two or to Old Town Alexandria water front. I am excited to see what can come of the Buzzard's Point area as well after watching the change in the Ballpark neighborhood.
After a recent trip to Sydney, Australia as well, the Darling Harbour area provides a wonderful example of a very successful waterfront redevelopment that should not be missed if you find yourself on the other side of the world.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Where Good Ideas Come From and Everything Bad is Good For You - Steven Johnson. He is a brilliant popular science and cultural author who is actually also a native Washingtonian. These books will help you understand how transformational ideas come about as well as the importance of challenging the status quo and popular opinions.
- The Real-Life MBA - Jack & Suzy Welch. A no non-sense business lesson from one of my idols and one of the greatest CEO's of all time.
- Extreme Ownership - Jocko Willink & Leif Babin. A true leadership study from two Navy Seals who were a part of one of the most decorated units from the Iraq War. They now work with business leaders to translate many of their lessons from the battlefield to the workplace.
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
You can't be afraid to fail because you only grow by pushing your boundaries and not playing it safe. Also, the value of relationships is huge. This is a small industry in terms of it being a tight-knit community. Having some great friends and mentors in the industry has helped me in so many ways. Never be too proud to ask a question. Nobody can be an expert in every part of our business and the devil is in the details. You don't want to miss things you can avoid.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
Becoming a member of NAIOP has increased my network in the industry immensely. The DL program is a great way to connect with those who are in a similar stage in their career who are eager to learn other parts of the industry. I am lucky to be able to get involved in speaker events, networking events, and community service initiatives with some great friends I have gained through NAIOP.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Coach Lacrosse- I am going into my 5th season as Assistant Boy's Varsity Lacrosse Coach at Langley High School, my alma mater. It is a very rewarding experience and a great way to stay connected to a sport I love and have been playing since 2nd grade.
- Play guitar/banjo- No matter what I seem to have going on at work on otherwise in life, picking up an instrument always puts me in a good mood
- See the World! My profile picture is me in front of Lake Pukaki with Mt. Aoraki in the background on my recent trip to New Zealand. I am blessed to have seen some amazing places and look forward to travel when I can get away.
Profiled January 2020
Emma Kiser
Full Name: Emma Kiser
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Science, Environmental Policy and Planning; Minor, French, Virginia Tech
Company: Shockey Construction
Title: Business Development, Northern Virginia & Maryland
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- NAIOP Developing Leaders Committee
- NAIOP Developing Leaders Mentor Program
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 1 year
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 year
What are your current responsibilities and background?
My degree is in urban planning. Prior to entering the field, I held some interesting positions, including naturalist in Fairfax County and founding member of a non-profit farm and bakery in West Virginia. Last summer I threw myself into the building world. I worked for a local architecture firm, studied for my contractor license in West Virginia, and took blueprint-reading classes.
Currently, I work for a commercial general contractor doing business development. I get to do what I love every day: meet new people, form friendships, and make deals. Chasing new work is exhilarating. Every day is different and involves lots of travel to meet with old and new friends in a variety of fields including architecture, engineering, construction, and development.
What is your ultimate career goal?
I want to be in a leadership position. Everyone wants to feel like they are doing meaningful work with tangible results. They want to feel appreciated and part of a team. I believe that I can help offer that experience to others, as a leader. However, I have a lot to learn first!
At the end of the day, I like to see beautiful buildings be built. This lets me know that I'm in the right industry. Ultimately, I hope to be part of a team that helps our community be the best it can be through innovative design, technical expertise, and strong relationships. I'll always be able to better myself and develop professionally and at the end of the day the goal is to deliver a great product and sustain good relationships.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I care deeply about the built world around me. While taking a class in college called Evolution of the American Landscape, I realized there is a reason everything looks the way it does, and I feel I have a calling to be a part of that process. I have great respect for architects, and I love working in a field that is architecture-adjacent.
I enjoy working for a company that is contributing positively to the built world. It's especially rewarding when we get to work with the architect and owner during the preconstruction process. I like making the normally stressful and expensive process of building easier and satisfying for our clients. I like the idea of leaving behind a quality product that you can admire for years to come.
What's your favorite building or development project?
I'm so lucky to live in the quaint historic City of Winchester. I'm enveloped daily by turn of the century buildings. It is like waking up in a dream! The town is full of gorgeous Victorian and gothic structures. Cottages and mansions mix on Sycamore-lined streets with brick sidewalks. It is a pleasure to walk down the street. If you haven't seen our library yet, it is an amazing limestone Beaux-Arts building that will take your breath away.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Anna Karenina--named my son Levin after the aristocratic farmer Konstantin Dmitrievich Levin.
- The Outsiders--gotta love a good bad boy, or 7 ;)
- Anything from Coleman Rector's, my current NAIOP Mentor, reading list, such as, The Total Money Makeover--changed how I handle my money; How to Win Friends and Influence People--changed how I do business.
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
My boss and company President, Jeff Boehm, has always taken the time to explain the finer points of doing business by sharing guidance such as, "You don't make a friend over the phone." He has also always encouraged my natural tenacity and gumption, which you need if you're going to get a meeting with a busy developer or architect. Also, I've learned the power of deep listening.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP was valuable to me initially when I knew no one in the CRE world. Now, 8 months later, I have numerous peers I would call friends. A network is invaluable to someone like me whose job is only as good as the connections I have. I still enjoy meeting new people through NAIOP and getting an excuse to catch up with old friends. I have gotten so much out of the mentorship program. Coleman has taken the time to sculpt me and my mentee group into mini real estate investors, stoking our entrepreneurial fire and then pushing us out of the nest.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- I'm trying to teach myself how to sew, I've got several boxes of fabric that are staring me straight in the face.
- I like to bake sweets.
- I try my best to entertain my four-year-old by playing LEGOs, going for walks downtown, and then destroying him in Beyblade battles.
Profiled December 2019
Tiffany Turner
Full Name: Tiffany Turner
Education/Professional Certifications:
Professional Engineer Certification
Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering, University of Virginia
Company: christopher consultants, ltd.
Title: Project Engineer
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- NAIOP Developing Leaders Committee
- NAIOP Developing Leaders Mentor Program
- NAIOP Loudoun Government Relations Subcommittee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 7 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 year
What are your current responsibilities and background?
After graduating from the University of Virginia, I worked with Paciulli, Simmons & Associates as a project engineer in land development. Later down the road, Paciulli, Simmons joined forces with christopher consultants which is where I'm at today.
With christopher consultants, I primarily work on projects located in Loudoun County. In a typical day, I can have a wide range of ‘to-do’ list items. It starts with looking at the ‘to-do’ list and prioritizing from there. My days mainly center around site design/CAD work and collaboration with other project team members; however, depending on the status of a given project, I could be doing anything in the range from putting together work orders/proposals to answering RFI’s/construction admin and helping close out a project.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Ultimately, I hope to be part of a team that helps our community be the best it can be through innovative design, technical expertise, and strong relationships. I'll always be able to better myself and develop professionally and at the end of the day the goal is to deliver a great product and sustain good relationships.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Thinking back, I sort of fell into land development; math and science were always my favorite subjects and so it made sense to go into engineering. Then one day it occurred to me that land development is an opportunity to design the world that we live in. As a civil engineer in land development, that's what we get to do. A developer comes in with a project, you communicate needs/restrictions/goals, and then design a product that works within those constraints. That project becomes a new footprint on the world.
What's your favorite building or development project?
One of the projects I enjoyed working on was the Fairfax County Park Authority – Nottoway Park Project. This project reoriented and enlarged an existing soccer field and replaced it with an artificial turf field which included a large underground stormwater management facility within its footprint. Additionally, we also designed a raingarden for stormwater management quality purposes as part of this project. I enjoyed this project because of the design and thought that had to go into the underground facility. The project team was also a great plus; we developed a good relationship with Park Authority staff and had open communication with them throughout the process. The finished project looks great and is being put to good use!
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Leadership and Self-Deception, The Arbinger Institute.
- Fearless, Eric Blehm
- Beautiful Outlaw, John Eldredge
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Communication is key; the ability to effectively communicate with others can make or break projects and relationships. Open, honest communication is a must whether it be with your team, your client, or your family and friends.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
The educational opportunities through NAIOP have been a huge benefit. The Lunch and Learns are informative and also give you a chance to meet others that have similar interests; you get to connect with people that have the same vision of a community that is healthy, cohesive, and unified. Working with people like this is key is determining what a community looks like, what it needs, and how to get it there.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- I like to spend my free time outside. Whether it be running an obstacle course race, road race, or just doing yard work. Being outside is a nice balance to being in the office all day.
- I also like to do projects around the house (and am only able to because of the help from YouTube). Just recently we finished revamping an old dining room set.
- Adventures! I'm always up for a adventures, whether it be traveling, hiking, or floating down the river in a tube. I'm up for anything that's fun and breaks the daily routine.
Profiled September 2019
David Ness
Full Name: David Ness
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor Degree, William Penn University
Major: Business Management & Minor: Economics
Company: Jenkins Restorations
Title: Director of Mitigation & Emergency Services
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- NAIOP Developing Leader
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 3 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 2 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I worked as a Financial Representative for 1 year after college. Since then I have been in the Restoration Industry for 7 years. I started in the field as a Water Mitigation Technician. My current role is Service Line Director of Water Mitigation & Emergency Services. I am responsible for Policy/Procedures, Training, and Sales/Marketing for Mitigation & Emergency Services in our 24 offices.
What is your ultimate career goal?
I really enjoy working for a company like Jenkins Restorations that shares my personal values. Our Mission Statement is "Restoring property and lives with a servant's heart". Our Vision Statement is "To be the restoration company of choice in existing and future markets while upholding Biblical values and demonstrating integrity and character". The servant's attitude and Biblical values are values I was raised to uphold. I mention that because my ultimate career goal is to serve as an Executive at Jenkins Restorations.
Eventually I would also love the opportunity to start my own business as a side venture. My time in NAIOP has opened my eyes to the possibilities within commercial real estate.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I am involved in my company's effort to build our Commercial Restoration line of business. I don't personally have extensive experience in commercial real estate. So I am excited to learn as much as I can from NAIOP.
What's your favorite building or development project?
My favorite building that I have seen traveling in the U.S. is One World Trade Center. I appreciate the patriotism and hard work that went into the 9/11 clean-up and reconstruction. I also find the building to be aesthetically beautiful.
One of my favorite D.C. area projects is "The View" in Tysons Corner. I attended the Transwestern Lunch & Learn last year and enjoyed learning more about the 36 story building/project. I'm excited to visit.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Bible. It might seem like a "Sunday School" answer, but my life has truly been impacted the most by The Bible. While obviously delivering the Good News of The Gospel, The Bible also delivers profound wisdom on topics such as love, grace, relationships, war, extreme highs, extreme lows, and more. The Bible is a great resource on human psychology.
- Good to Great, Jim Collins. A big challenge for many companies is going from "good to great". Some of the things I learned from this book that have stuck with me include level 5 leadership, hedgehog concept, and culture of discipline. I really want to strive to be a level 5 leader at my company. The book describes that as someone who has a paradoxical combination of personal humility and drive to see their company succeed. The hedgehog concept is something we talk about at Jenkins. A hedgehog is when three circles overlap: something that you're passionate about, could be the best in the world at, and makes you money.
- Extreme Ownership, Jocko Willick and Leif Babin. This book was written by two Navy SEALS. It discusses some incredibly difficult, but crucial business concepts like extreme ownership, no bad teams (only bad leaders), belief, simplification, prioritization, chain of command, and more.
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Own it. Building off the Extreme Ownership book I referenced. I have already experienced significant failure and success in my short career. I have learned that it's important to learn from both failure and success and then move on. Own your failures, share in your success, and strive to be better every day.
And ultimately, I think it is important to find something that grounds you. I believe that my Faith and Family are the most important things in my life. They are the things in life that define me. Work has plenty of ups and downs, but I know who I am no matter what happens on a daily basis. That's obviously easier said than done, but it is what I strive for.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
I joined NAIOP for two reasons. I wanted to learn more about commercial real estate and develop relationships in the industry. So far, so good. I am excited to continue pursuing those goals in the Developing Leaders group and NAIOP at large.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Family Time. I have a wife and two sons (4 and 1). I love spending time with them. My sons are full of energy and love playing outside. I also love traveling with my wife. We haven't been anywhere overseas yet, but we are excited to visit some other countries sometime soon.
- Sports. I played basketball and baseball in high school and then baseball in college. I still enjoy playing sports of any kind for fun.
- Side Projects. I'm not great at it, but I enjoy doing side projects at home. Stuff like building shelves and putting up a fence.
Profiled July 2019
Angelina Rotella Fuller
Full Name: Angelina Rotella Fuller
Education/Professional Certifications:
Masters Real Estate Development, George Mason University
B.A. Communication, Public Relations Track, University of Maryland - College Park
Company: Artis Senior Living
Title: Development Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- NAIOP Capital Challenge Winner, George Mason University, 2018
- Education Committee, Communications Captain
- NAIOP Developing Leader
- DL Mentor Program
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 3 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
As Development Manager, I currently oversee land acquisition, entitlement, financial modeling and market feasibility for approximately 25 projects under construction or in various stages of development. I spent the first five years of my career in the public sector working for the Department of State's Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations as a Public Affairs Officer. The Bureau directs the worldwide overseas building program and was my first exposure to real estate. I worked closely on congressional and industry relations with the Director of Real Estate at the time, and ultimately followed him back to the private sector in 2014 - just two years after he and his former senior housing colleagues formed Artis.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My ultimate goal is to source equity to pursue development opportunities as an owner. In the meantime, I'm developing relationships and capitalizing on the ability to gain knowledge and experience in all aspects of financing, acquisition, development and construction- an incredible benefit of working for a company in its infancy.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I ended up in real estate organically. When I was offered a position in real estate development, I was intrigued by the challenge and the ever-changing built environment. I was energized by the ability to make immediate decisions that effect change. Once I realized how much I enjoyed the position, I wanted to maximize my ability to add value, which motivated my decision to pursue my Masters in Real Estate Development. Witnessing the activity in the DC market is inspiring, and is a constant reminder that my peers will ultimately determine the growth of a region. I am eager to be a part of that change.
What's your favorite building or development project?
In recent years, Artis has deviated from its suburban prototype to enter urban markets. Our Chicago community - Artis' first blended product for general assisted living and memory care - is my favorite development. The site was one of Artis' first land acquisitions, and was a unique opportunity predicated on relationships in the industry. The site was acquired prior to development approvals, living outside of the company's general risk profile. Artis celebrated its grand opening earlier this year and is now working on a similar local development in north Arlington based on its success. It's exciting to work on a project locally that will further contribute to growth in our region.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck
- The Alchemist
- The 10X Rule
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
"Be a sponge." It's a simple philosophy that was shared by a former boss who believed that there was never a moment without the opportunity to learn. It has forced me to become a better listener and observer.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
The relationships I've built at NAIOP are invaluable. My involvement has contributed to personal and professional growth and increased my awareness of the trends in industry. In addition, I've been able to participate in the Mentor Program as a Developing Leader, which has afforded me the opportunity to gain insight and career advice from both executives and peers .
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Hiking (favorite hikes include Maryland Heights, Old Rag, Raven Rocks and Bear's Den)
- Visiting the vast amount of local wineries and breweries
- Doing anything that involves my dogs!
Profiled June 2019
Shaelyn Mullaney
Full Name: Shaelyn Mullaney
Education/Professional Certifications:
The University of Tennessee Knoxville
Company: Merritt Properties
Title: Leasing
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- NAIOP Developing Leader
- Northern Virginia Bus Tour Committee
- NAIOP Government Relations Committee
- Development 101 Partcipant
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 3 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 5 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I have over nine years of business development in commercial construction and real estate. In my role at Merritt Properties, I am responsible for the leasing, customer relations and business development of a 2 million-square-foot office and industrial portfolio within Northern Virginia. Our Leasing Department develops relationships directly with both customers and the larger brokerage community to manage leasing, renewals and design-build opportunities for industrial, flex and office properties.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My hope is to still be working with my amazing coworkers and clients, doing what I love. I want to continue being creative in the deals we make and the real estate projects we pursue.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Growing up in Loudoun County and seeing the rapid changes and economic growth really inspired me to get involved in commercial real estate. I was interested in the vision of the County's future. Getting to work for a commercial real estate company would allow me to have exposure to numerous business leaders and give me insight on different types of companies and industries.
What's your favorite building or development project?
I am partial but one of the project's I have been most fascinated by is our Merritt I-66 Business Park in Manassas. With three buildings delivered, the park will consist of six warehouse buildings totaling 596,000 square feet. What's interesting about the site is that it contained a large area of dense rock. So 8-10 drills were utilized over a three-month period to blast and crush the rock. Along with 540,000 pounds of explosives and three crushing machines which helped mobilize to generate rock of various sizes. The crushed rock turned into 285,310 cubic yards of useable material to level and raise the site, as well as construct access roads, paving areas and a retaining wall.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Alchemist
- Daring Greatly
- The Power of Now
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
In 2017, I was recognized as a Loudoun Times Mirror 40 under 40 honoree. It was so encouraging to meet other young career driven professionals from diverse backgrounds. Some honoree's were bankers, some were non profit advocates, while others were teachers. Even though our group was from all different organizations and various careers, we found a way to network and create a community. I learned that this group is the future of the County, and establishing supportive relationships with each other now is essential. Even though our careers may not have us crossing paths now, they may in the future. Our mentors don't need to be older more experienced people, they can be our peers too. There is no career relationship that is not important, especially in commercial real estate.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
My membership has provided me with educational tools and an unparalleled, and expanding, network of great friends and clients in the industry. Besides helping in my career, it has provided opportunities to help me grow as a person with plenty of volunteer and leadership opportunities.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Play golf with my husband
- Visit the local vineyards
- Hang with my one year old daughter
Profiled March 2019
Matt Hildreth
Full Name: Matt Hildreth
Education/Professional Certifications:
B.A. George Mason University
Company: JK Moving Services
Title: Commercial Account Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Mentor Program
- Developing Leaders Committee
- CRE.Converge Exhibitor
- Northern Virginia Bus Tour Exhibitor
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 3 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 2 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
My background has always been based on the customer experience - solving challenges and needs, regardless of industry. Currently, as Commercial Account Executive at JK, my responsibility is solving relocation, logistic, asset management and distribution challenges.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My career goal is to become the ultimate team player. There have been so many coworkers willing to give me their time and expert advice over the years - I want to be that resource for the up-and-comers. Strong leadership and a dependable network of professionals can have a profound impact on the community and the marketplace. I want to climb my way to the top so that I too can be a leader to listen and teach.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
The motivation to be a part of something bigger than myself. I have such respect for the DC area, and to watch it slowly transform into a booming center of activity and commerce is so inspiring. I wanted to personally play a role on the huge team that has gotten us to where we are today - with tech giants like Amazon choosing us over thousands of other places in the world. I have a feeling more is yet to come and I, along with my fellow Developing Leaders, are all hungry to play the part.
What's your favorite building or development project?
The Wharf on DC's Southwest Waterfront has become a booming center of redevelopment opportunities and it has been a pleasure to have played a role in it. Washington Gas was moved into their headquarters (by JK) in 2018, a choice they made to revitalize the district, create a vibrant business culture, and implement diverse and sustainable energy practices. As stated by Terry McCallister, Chairman and CEO WGL Holdings, Inc. and Washington Gas, "WGL is proud to join in one of the largest redevelopment opportunities in our nation's capital and reaffirm our long-standing commitment to a community we have served and lived in for nearly 170 years. Our new home will improve the work environment for employees, accommodate future growth and be part of an exciting new neighborhood."
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- High Profit Prospecting by Mark Hunter
- Close Deals Faster by John Asher
- The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
I've learned that asking for help and advice is okay. Being honest with your fellow team members will build a stronger bond, thereby creating a healthier atmosphere. A team effort can disrupt an entire marketplace, if coordinated properly and with the utmost quality. By being a unified force, a team can take down giants twice its size.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
In addition to meeting new, influential people within the commercial real estate industry, NAIOP Northern Virginia has helped me grow both personally and professionally. It has showed me the importance of changes in the real estate market when it comes to companies making the decision to relocate to a new office across the street, across the state, or across the globe. I have become much more informed about the economy and changing real estate scene in Northern Virginia area with the help of my fellow NAIOP colleagues. Members are always so willing to provide expert advice - and have a good time!
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Spending quality time with family and friends (and trying to keep up with my two-year-old daughter, Ava).
- Doing anything outdoors, taking in the NoVa scenery.
- Watching or attending DC sports games. C-A-P-S... CAPS! CAPS! CAPS!
Profiled January 2019
Adam Henry
Full Name: Adam J. Henry, CEcD
Education/Professional Certifications:
M.S. Political Science, Florida State University
B.A. Political Science (magna cum laude), University of Florida
B.S. Psychology (cum laude), University of Florida
Certified Economic Developer (CEcD)
Company: Prince William County Department of Economic Development
Title: Business Development Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Developing Leader Mentor Program
- Prince William Government Relations Subcommittee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 4 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 4 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I work to bring attract new business and investment to Prince William County, Virginia, the state's second largest and fourth fastest growing county. I focus primarily on logistics and advanced manufacturing projects, which requires a knowledge of the County's available industrial real estate. Some of my core responsibilities include lead generation efforts, site selection assistance, proposal writing, project management, incentive negotiation, zoning and permitting assistance, state and local partnerships, and developing key relationships with key decision makers in targeted industries, real estate, development, and site selection.
Prior to Prince William County, Department of Economic Development, I worked for Enterprise Florida, Inc. While there, I supported the management of business development projects statewide with directors and managers across all sectors by performing due diligence, company and industry research, state incentive evaluation, site selection and proposal development.
What is your ultimate career goal?
The economic development field has been a fascinating career with no dull moments and I look forward to seeing where it takes me in the future. My ultimate career goal is to one day have an opportunity to lead an economic development organization or work in the private sector as a national site selector.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
The motivation for my indirect involvement in commercial real estate via economic development was seeing a career where I could wake up every day knowing that I may change the life of an individual or family by providing new opportunities for upward mobility in the community and improving the overall quality of life for everyone.
What's your favorite building or development project?
Farm Brew LIVE at Innovation Park in Prince William County. This project is a premier destination brewery campus created around the renovation of the Thomasson Dairy Barn, a 90-year old abandoned barn owned by Prince William County. This project was a great example of public-private partnerships and redevelopment and reuse. My wife and I enjoy going on the weekends and bringing friends along.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- How to Win Friends & Influence People, Dale Carnegie
- The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey
- Never Eat Alone, Keith Ferrazzi & Tahl Raz
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
The best way to satisfy a client or prospect is to be responsive and provide excellent customer service. Also, if you don't know the answer to a question, find it. Going the extra mile to provide an answer to that question you don't know may make the difference in winning that project and will help you in the future deals you work.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP Northern Virginia has helped me make strategic connections and develop lasting relationships with commercial real estate professionals in Northern Virginia. As part of my job being a local economic developer, building key relationships with people in the commercial real estate industry is critical. Having knowledge of the available real estate product is an important factor for any community competing for jobs and investment in the global economy. The best way to know what's available is developing relationships with commercial real estate professionals and NAIOP Northern Virginia has provided an excellent platform to do just that.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Travel
- Golf
- Watch college (SEC) football!
Profiled December 2018
Christopher Smith
Full Name: Christopher Smith
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelors in Mathematics, Washington College
Company: Siemens Industry Inc.
Title: Business Development Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- NAIOP DL Committee Member
- NAIOP Golf Committee Member
- Bus Tour Exhibitor
- Converge Exhibitor
- Development 101
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 8 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1.5 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
My current responsibilities include consulting and project development for the advancement of Smart Building Technology. Working with engineers, contractors and end users I tailor a technology solution that makes sense for their Business Goals.
My previous work at Siemens included every job available in the field operations division from installing systems, to programming/designing systems, to project management.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Wow that's a tough question to answer. I would say the most rewarding part of my job is being part of a team that solves complex problems that benefit every member of the team. As far as my ultimate career goal, it would be to be an integral part of a team that solves a problem that has a lasting impact on society. What that problem is and how it gets solved is hard to define at the moment.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I would say the motivation came from my curiosity of how buildings worked My father worked as a building engineer while I was growing up so I was constantly in mechanical rooms with a bunch of equipment that I had no idea what they did. When I went to college I took a step back from focusing on the buildings to focusing on logic and problem solving (Mathematics Degree). But when I began looking for my career, the interest in buildings and how technology, math and science played a role in the operation of a building came back to me. Siemens was the perfect fit.
I've now come to a point in my career where the interest in just how the buildings operate has transformed into how can buildings be an asset to a business and society as a whole. That's what drove me to NAIOP and the commercial real estate industry.
What's your favorite building or development project?
Going to do a little home town shout out here. My favorite development project would have to be Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Camden Yards set the standard for the modern baseball stadium. It is the model to which every new stadium is built.
Camden Yards transformed the inner harbor of Baltimore. The transformation of that area of the harbor has since seen another stadium (Ravens Stadium) and Horseshoe Casino be built, which has resulted in millions of people coming to visit the City of Baltimore. The increased foot traffic has been great for the local businesses that helped build Baltimore into what it is today.
Maybe someday soon we'll see some World Series games in Baltimore and really get the benefits of a Class A stadium built right in the middle of one of America's greatest cities.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Catch 22 - Joseph Heller
- 5 Lessons: The Modern Fundamentals of Golf - Ben Hogan
- The Godfather - Mario Puzo (Probably not that big of a life changer, but a great read)
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
You have to connect with people and listen to the things that matter to them. So often people rush to tell others how great their product or solution is, without understanding the value it truly provides to the other person. Learning that lesson has benefited me not only in business, but in my personal life as well.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
It's been great. NAIOP does a fantastic job of putting a lot influential people together in a room, in an environment that is casual enough to conduct business and build friendships. I can't begin to count the number of people I have met over the past year and a half. It has been a great avenue to enhance my company brand as well as my personal brand.
Big shout out to Benita!
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- GOLF, GOLF GOLF. I got the golf bug real bad. I think it gives me the competitive atmosphere I miss from playing sports growing up, but it is also a great avenue to test mental toughness. There is always room for improvement in the game, and more often than not that improvement comes from the brain, not one's physical skill set.
- Tinkering around the house. Always looking for new projects to do and new skills to learn.
- Sharing new adventures with friends and family. It's always good to see new things, but it is even better when you are experiencing those with people you care about.
Profiled November 2018
Lee A. Brinkman
Full Name: Lee A. Brinkman
Education/Professional Certifications:
Georgetown University, School of Continuing Studies, Master Professional Studies, Real Estate
The Ohio State University, Fisher College of Business, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Real Estate
Company: COPT (Corporate Office Properties Trust)
Title: Leasing Associate
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- NAIOP DL Committee
- Bus Tour Captain
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 4 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 3 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
As a Leasing Associate I am responsible for the day-to-day leasing operations of our Northern Virginia portfolio. Whether that may be touring prospective tenants, working through deal analyses, or reviewing and revising a Lease, I am involved from start to finish.
Prior to my time at COPT, I worked for Brandywine Realty Trust. Starting off, I was briefly in property management (which I think is the best way to start off in the CRE industry!), then moved on to a leasing/marketing role, and finally worked downtown with the development/investments team.
What is your ultimate career goal?
At this stage, my ultimate career goal is to be involved on a redevelopment project that includes a large historical preservation component.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Ironically, I wasn't planning to get involved in real estate at all! In college, I stumbled upon the undergraduate real estate program at Ohio State, figured I'd give it a try, and fell in love with it. What draws me to real estate in general is how much it has an impact on daily life. Whether it is where you live or where you work, it shapes the world around you (literally and figuratively).
Growing up in Northern Virginia, it has been amazing to see how much has changed in such a short period of time. The rate and scale of development has been confounding, and the effects these projects have had on both the economic and social characteristics of the neighborhoods is undeniable. I am eager to see the next wave of new projects and the effects these will have on the region.
What's your favorite building or development project?
Currently, I'd have to say Forest City's Ballston Quarter is my favorite project. It's modernizing and transforming what became an irrelevant and obsolete shopping mall into the retail and neighborhood destination of Ballston. I cannot wait for the project to deliver and stores, restaurants and amenities to open for business and revitalize and reactivate this corner of the Ballston neighborhood!
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom
- Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell
- The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Don't rush, and listen! Things can move so rapidly in this industry that details can be lost and communication blurred if you're not careful. So, while it is important to move quickly, take the time to make sure you understand all of the details.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP has been incredibly beneficial to me with respect to my career in so many ways. The most impactful, I think, is the networking opportunities that NAIOP provides. There are hundreds of professionals involved in the organization who work in distinct roles within the CRE industry and are involved in various ways. Every individual I have met through NAIOP has in some way, shape, or form helped me to grow professionally in my career.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Travel; specifically, I love combo relaxing/active trips like hiking a trail at a National Park by day, and finding a great local restaurant spot to eat drink and relax at the end of it all. I also love small weekend getaways to cities I haven't yet visited! No matter what, on every trip, I try to plan at least one new experience or activity I wouldn't do otherwise!
- Try new restaurants/foods/drinks; we are so fortunate to have a plethora of awesome restaurants, craft breweries, wineries and more within such close proximity. I try to take advantage of them as much as I can.
- Spend time with family and friends. As cliche as it sounds, there is nothing better than being surrounded by the people who matter most!
Profiled October 2018
Clayton Rivers
Full Name: Clayton Rivers
Education/Professional Certifications:
B.S., Mercer University Stetson School of Business
Company: CBRE, Inc.
Title: Associate
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders
- Bus Tour Captain
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 2 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 year
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I work on a 5-person team of hard working and talented individuals with a core focus on office tenant representation. I help my team develop and implement strategies to align our clients' real estate needs with their overall business objectives.
My responsibilities include business development, tenant generation, market analysis, and the active participation in lease negotiations on behalf of tenants.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Although I currently specialize in tenant representation for office users, my long term goal is to become proficient in all aspects of the business, such as representing multiple types of users that lease or acquire real estate around the globe.
My ultimate goal is to be viewed by my mentors and peers as a progressive thought leader in the real estate industry.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
During my senior year of college, I held an internship with a local developer who helped spark my interest in real estate. Later that year I was introduced to a few professionals within the commercial leasing industry and fell in love with the fast paced environment and competitive nature of the business.
What's your favorite building or development project?
Earlier this year I had the opportunity to listen to MadisonMarquette present their strategy behind constructing two of their most successful redevelopment projects (The D.C. Wharf and Asbury Park Boardwalk in New Jersey).
Each development gained immediate attention by office and retail tenants, creating a fun live/work/play environment. I think the coolest projects are the ones that essentially market themselves. I'm still amazed by how they've been able to quickly transform each area into an around the clock entertainment destination.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Shaping the Skyline: The World According to Real Estate Visionary Julien Studley
- Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion
- Capital of The World
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
It's impossible to succeed without constantly working to improve my time management and attention to detail.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP has been able to give me a high level view of the industry because each member is pursuing different careers within real estate. Additionally, the opportunity to be a bus tour captain forces me to know the Northern Virginia market inside and out.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Sports (I can't wait for college football!)
- Spending time with friends and family
- Anything outside if the weather is nice
Profiled September 2018
Meghan Trossen
Full Name: Meghan Trossen
Education/Professional Certifications:
MBA, University of Notre Dame
B.S., Virginia Tech
Company: Tysons Partnership
Title: Director of Programs and Partnerships
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders
- Bus Tour Committee
- Bus Tour Captain
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 2.5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 year
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I develop relationships and recruit companies interested in joining our membership. Let me know if you would like to learn more! I also oversee the Tysons Partnership's councils focused on Emerging Leaders, Community Responsibility, and Sustainability, and Partnership programmatic campaigns and events, including our #TysonsCares Season of Giving and Tysons Placemaking Series.
My professional experience includes service as the director of United States operations for the Economic Growth Initiative-Haiti, a business accelerator and community development organization in Port-au-Prince, and seven years managing global philanthropic partnerships for the United Nations Foundation and Pew Charitable Trusts.
What is your ultimate career goal?
I want to be the CEO of a nonprofit or overseeing community engagement programs at a Fortune 100. Essentially, I want to stay challenged, continue to learn, and make a positive impact supporting important community causes.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Tysons, where I grew up, is my motivation. Tysons is the largest redevelopment project in America and the Tysons Partnership is working with the corporate community and government to accelerate the transformation into a live/work/play 24/7 destination. This bold undertaking is what motivated me - and to have a voice in the future of Tysons.
What's your favorite building or development project?
It is so hard for me to choose a favorite - I love many Tysons buildings and all the new neighborhoods! The Mile is beautiful and green thanks to P.S. Business Parks' vision, and great for runs - especially with Valo Park's extraordinary campus. The Plaza at Tysons Corner Center is the definition of transformation and placemaking. Capital One's M2 is the jewel of Tysons, and Lerner's 1775 is one of the most impressive LEED- platinum buildings in the DMV. Ask me in a year and it might be one of the new Boro buildings or The Lumen.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- 48 Laws of Power
- The World is Flat
- The Devil in the White City (Not life-changing but incredibly entertaining and I could read it over and over. Can't wait for the movie!)
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Let people vent
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP offers incredible connections, information, and programming. I learned so much during the Bus Tour, each Lunch & Learn, and from my fellow DLs. I genuinely enjoy working with the dedicated NAIOP staff!
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Improv comedy
- Wine classes (I have a Level 2 certification from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust)
- -Running
Profiled August 2018
Ben Bookwalter
Full Name: Ben Bookwalter
Education/Professional Certifications:
Project Management Certificate, Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC)
Company: Able Moving & Storage
Title: Commercial Account Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- DL Mentor Program
- DL Committee Member
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 7 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 2 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
As a Commercial Account Manager with Able Moving & Storage I am responsible for identifying new opportunities between qualified corporations and my company, for a variety of moving, storage, and logistical solutions. Proposing the proper logistical and pricing plans, along with our capabilities are the keys to securing these service partnerships and developing these relationships. I have also had the fortune of securing contracts with some of the largest fortune 100 companies around the Capital Beltway and in the country. I started in this business at the age of 14 with my own company "Brotherhood Moving Services" moving household goods. Eventually I grew into a role as a project manager for commercial projects at a "boutique" moving company. Steve Kuhn gave me an offer I couldn't refuse in 2015 to work with Able, and shortly thereafter I recognized the true possibilities between combining my background and experience with the qualities of a well-established organization. I was in the right place at the right time!
What is your ultimate career goal?
To be an Influencer in my community, either in politics, real estate or as a mover (or all of the above). In addition, I would like to run the largest independently owned moving company in the country. The next step is to grow a team that can provide a level of service to its clients & accounts known for quality & integrity. This can only be done by developing people that are aligned with the same goals.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I have always been an entrepreneur, a problem solver and service provider surrounded by real estate and real estate professionals. I have learned that one of the best industries to be involved with and develop my capabilities in is real estate. I currently service the real estate market through the moving industry and always intend to remain close to explore and be a part of all of the possibilities & relationships.
What's your favorite building or development project?
Boeing's Long Bridge Park Building at 929 Long Bridge Drive in Arlington. I was servicing that account daily and watched the building go from raw land to completion. My favorite aspect is the "wing shaped" ceiling in the grand entrance. Not only did the developers nail the design but the location is perfect, every minute a plane is either landing or taking off from DCA right over top of the building. From the owners, architects, designers, builders to the tenants, it's an all-around amazing building.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- 7 Habits for Highly Effective People - Steven Covey
- Silence With God - Benedict Baur
- How to win Friends and Influence People - Dale Carnegie
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
I have learned that "Integrity" is the most important thing in my career and in my life. It is something that only I am responsible & accountable for, and I can't depend on anyone else to establish it for me. I can't control what others do, what they say, or what their characters are, but I can certainly control and own mine. At the end of each day I need to know that I did the best I can do without compromise. I can lead by example, and live a life of integrity, but I cannot control the outcome. I can only do the best I can do for myself, my company and my family.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
The Mentorship Program has been very helpful for me to have a better understanding of the professionalism required and expected in the industry. My understanding of how important the "soft skills" are has grown and I have since identified my owns areas of improvement.
However, one of the best places I have learn to enhance my skills is in the various events where I can network, and have been able to learn from so many of the quality people who belong to NAOIP. It would be difficult for me to express how many great people have been willing to share the experiences with me, and give me advice when I need it.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
I spend most of the time that I'm not working with my 4 children (Joel-7, Noah-6, Annalise-4, Gabriel-6 months). During the time I spend not working or with my family I read a lot. So far this year I have read 8 books (4 Sci-fi Novels, 2 Spiritual, 1 Biography, 1 Fiction). I play the Piano, it is a great pass time and while I play I will think about the next job to go after or any of the jobs I am currently working on.
Profiled July 2018
Stephanie Morgan
Full Name: Stephanie Morgan
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Science in Finance, George Mason University
Company: Brandywine Realty Trust
Title: Senior Leasing Associate
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders
- Bus Tour Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 8 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 5 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
As a Senior Leasing Associate at Brandywine Realty Trust, I am responsible for marketing & leasing over 3.8 million SF of existing office buildings within our Metro DC Portfolio. My day-to-day activities include touring prospective tenants, drafting lease proposals, analyzing deal terms, negotiating letters of intent, and facilitating the drafting, negotiation & execution of leases. I am a licensed real estate salesperson in Virginia, Maryland and D.C.
Prior to my role in leasing, I started my career with Brandywine in property management. My property management background has been extremely helpful in my leasing transactions.
What is your ultimate career goal?
I would love to ultimately work on a ground-up development project in the District.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
As a January 2010 college graduate, finding a full-time job with benefits was very difficult in the post-recession economy. Like most of my peers, I continued to work my part-time job as a Barista until I found a more permanent position. I eventually landed a full-time job as a Bank Teller, but quickly realized banking was not my passion. My aunt, who owns a small general contracting business, suggested I apply for a position at Brandywine Realty Trust. Starting as an Administrative Assistant, I've worked my way through roles in property management and marketing to eventually land a position on the leasing team. I work on a great team of individuals: Janet Davis (Past Chairman- NAIOP Northern Virginia), Jerry Kilkenny (Board of Directors- NAIOP Northern Virginia), and Jeb Boland (Board of Directors- NAIOP DC|MD).
What's your favorite building or development project?
- Existing: Dulles Corner in Herndon, Virginia. As a Herndon resident, I am partial to our buildings on the Toll Road. Dulles Corner is not only where I started my career, but its the largest renovation I have worked on so far. In 2015, we invested over $10 million in a full-building renovation, state-of-the-art conference & fitness center, new outdoor patios and award-winning park landscaping. The project is minutes from Dulles Airport and future Innovation Center Metro.
*Fun Fact: Last year I worked on the relocation of NAIOP's Corporate office to Dulles Corner. They built a beautiful space on the top floor of 2355 Dulles Corner Blvd overlooking the park and airport.
- Planned: 25 M Street SE in Washington, D.C. Even if you are not familiar with this development project, I am sure you know the site -- it's the current home of The Bullpen outside of Nationals Stadium. The building will feature a 6,000 SF rooftop terrace, indoor/outdoor fitness center, and a private rooftop event space and conference center.
- As far as developments, I'll selfishly say the Mosaic District in Falls Church, since it's so close to my house.
- For a future development, the overhaul of Ballston in Arlington is going to be great for my hometown.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
That is a difficult task... instead, I will share what I am currently reading/listening to:
- Kindle Book: Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance
- NPR Podcast: How I Built This with Guy Raz
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Pay attention to details and don't be afraid to ask questions. Things can move very quickly in this industry and it's important to have all the information to successfully execute a deal or project.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP Northern Virginia has been a great resource for my career thus far. I regularly attend events throughout the year -- whether it be a luncheon, breakfast or DL sponsored event. In 2015, I completed the NAIOP Development 101 Class, which is a great series on ground-up development. Through these events and programs, I have expanded my knowledge base on the commercial real estate industry, all while creating valuable relationships with other members. I look forward to continuing to actively participate in this chapter.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Be outside- whether it be hiking, walking the dog, or reading in the hammock
- Travel & explore new places -- locally and globally
- Spend quality time with family & friends (especially over food and drinks)
Profiled June 2018
Matt Hodson
Full Name: Matt Hodson
Education/Professional Certifications:
B.S. International Business, College of Charleston
Company: M&T Realty Capital (a division of M&T Bank)
Title: Managing Director
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Mentorship Program
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 8 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 3 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
As one of two Managing Directors for M&T Realty Capital in the Washington, DC metro, I am responsible for commercial real estate loan originations within the market, as well as, nationwide. I work directly with owner/operators, but also in conjunction with the construction lenders at M&T Bank - once the property is stabilized, M&T Realty Capital provides the permanent, longer-term, non-recourse debt options. M&T Realty Capital is a wholly-owned subsidiary of M&T Bank and is one of only seven banks that has licenses with Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and FHA/HUD on the multifamily finance side. Before M&T Realty Capital, I worked on a production team of five at NorthMarq Capital Finance and in the Asset Management Group at Wells Fargo Multifamily Capital. I'm a native Virginian and currently live in Falls Church.
What is your ultimate career goal?
I would eventually like to be running a production team, similar to the one I am on now. Along the way of getting there, I'd like to continue growing my network of clients, partners and colleagues, and continuing to stay involved and relevant in the industry!
On the side, I've been involved in a little real estate investing and would ultimately like to own a few multifamily properties.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
It was very indirect - I graduated College in May of 2009 so finding a job was tough, let alone in the financial sector. I had just come from working abroad in Mexico and took an unpaid accounting gig at a non-profit in DC, and, bartending at nights. I finally landed a full-time job, in a temp role without benefits or time off, at Wells Fargo. That was ultimately parlayed into a permanent gig where I learned how the loan cycle worked and really began to enjoy the real estate component of the finance world. I decided to stay put and eventually worked my way to the production side of the process.
What's your favorite building or development project?
- Growing up in the area, my favorite building is the Toilet Bowl Building in McLean!
- As far as developments, I'll selfishly say the Mosaic District in Falls Church, since it's so close to my house.
- For a future development, the overhaul of Ballston in Arlington is going to be great for my hometown.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Five People You Meet in Heaven
- To Kill a Mockingbird
- The Freakonomics Series
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Take your time before you make an important call or send an important email. While "important" is a relative word, it's really hard to take back what you say or what you send and people aren't anxious to give second chances when it comes to business. Whether it's going over what you're about to say, or what you're about to write, or whether you discuss with a mentor or colleague and get their thoughts on how it will go over, second opinions are extremely valuable. It's also important to stay involved and relevant in the industry - attend conferences, join associations, volunteer to speak on a panel, mentor, etc.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
The networking has really helped, especially with meeting people outside of my real estate finance bubble. Everybody in NAIOP is so eager to help further your career, take your phone call or email and just chat about what it is you're doing, how you're doing it, and what it takes to get it done.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Volunteer
- Golf
- Travel
Profiled May 2018
Brian O'Donnell
Full Name: Brian O'Donnell
Education/Professional Certifications:
B.S. Architecture, Catholic University of America
Company: WashREIT
Title: Project Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Mentorship Program
- Developing Leaders Philanthropy Sub-Committee
- Fairfax Government Relations Subcommittee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 3 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
As a project manager of a real estate investment trust, my primary objective is to provide value to our shareholders. In the Real Estate Services division of WashREIT opportunities to add value are limitless, however, my focus is completing quality building improvements efficiently and cost effectively while maintaining a positive rapport with both internal and external clientele. Typically, I am interacting with architects to develop quality designs, and construction companies to implement and deliver a completed and polished space. The project type varies from tenant renovations and speculative suites, to capital improvements. Before making the move to WashREIT, I received my B.S. in Architecture from The Catholic University of America, and worked for a few years with a general contractor out of Alexandria, Virginia.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My ultimate career goal would be to own my own development firm rooted in renewable, suburban, residential development. The aspiration would be to grow the firm enough to compete with other owners and developers in the DC market. A realization of that goal might be sitting on a board of directors of a major DC real estate enterprise, while owning my own. High hopes, but nothing is impossible.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
The built environment has always fascinated me, however, it was on a trip with my History of Architecture class to Italy that transformed my fascination into an infatuation. The idea that someone could make their mark in history with a building is exhilarating. Maybe I won't ever build something that makes it into the history books, but it would be cool to one day show my kids something that I helped create.
What's your favorite building or development project?
My favorite building so far is the Roman Colosseum. While I have not yet visited Angkor Wat, the Colosseum, most inspired my imagination. As far as my favorite development goes, I would say the World Trade Center Campus is impressive on many levels and once complete will be valued addition to the New York City urban fabric.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Cradle to Cradle by William McDonough and Michael Braungart
- Devil in the White City by Erik Larson
- The Odyssey by Homer
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Consider the opinions of others, even if you don't accept them, in your decision making.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP has helped me to gain a deeper understanding of the cogs that make up the larger real estate machine. The DL Mentorship program introduced me to a group of like minded peers, who each were willing to elaborate on their side of the business. As part of the program we were able to tour some pretty interesting development projects while they were in varying stages of completion.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- I recently took up surfing on a whim, which I have really grown to enjoy.
- While I am not the best, I enjoy sketching. There is something oddly satisfying about capturing a moment with paper and lead.
- Chess is also a hobby of mine, it is innately competitive and is great for one on one conversation.
Profiled March 2018
Colleen Wevodau
Full Name: Colleen Wevodau
Education/Professional Certifications:
University of Richmond
George Mason University, MBA
Company: Baker Tilly
Title: Senior Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders since 2012
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 11 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 6 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I have been with Baker Tilly since I graduated college and have progressed quickly to senior manager. I specialize in providing assurance and tax services to companies in the real estate industry specifically with auditing U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (U.S. GAAP) basis financial statements for real estate companies. Additionally, I provide various consulting services to real estate companies, including internal control evaluations, policy and procedure development and implementation and compliance evaluations.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Ultimately, I strive to be a partner at Baker Tilly. As I continue to grow with my commercial real estate clients I would like to move into the partner role to serve my clients exceptionally. As partner, my goal is to build my team and continue to teach them to allow us all to continue to grow. Other than technical ability, I enjoy corporate culture and organizational behavior and enjoy teaching and ensure the members of my team are successful and working at their highest potential.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Ironically and fortunately, I was randomly placed in the commercial real estate industry practice when I joined the firm in 2006 after graduating college. Since then I have been eager to continue to focus my career on commercial real estate. I have formed close relationships with my clients and not only do I provide public accounting services to my them but I'm better known as a business advisor due to my thorough understanding of their industry.
What's your favorite building or development project?
Since it is so new and a great atmosphere, I'm going to have to say The Wharf. A project that has great food and entertainment along the water is always a win for me.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Bible - My Nan taught me at an early age the importance of it.
- Becker CPA Review - it was definitely a love/hate relationship.
- Resilience by Eric Greitens
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
I was taught early that networking and building relationships are very important. As I move along in my career I couldn't agree more. Relationships are built through trust and ultimately friendships. You never know who might be able to help you currently and even in the unforeseen future. And always remember you have to be willing to return the favor.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP has provided a platform for the success in my career. Being a part of the developing leaders program both at a regional and national level has broadened my network. Not only have I formed working relationships with my peers and mentors of NAIOP but I have also formed great friendships. These relationships resulted in opportunities for me to seek advice from others who better understand the industry. Being able to bounce ideas and thoughts off of one another has allowed me to perform at my highest potential at work. The relationships coupled with attending NAIOP events has permitted me to better serve my clients as well. My clients appreciate I can speak their language and also intelligently discuss the risk factors they are facing and how we can help mitigate any exposure.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Travel - my goal is to visit a different country every year.
- Try new restaurants - I help run a dinner club and our goal is to try a new restaurant in the area every few months.
- Outdoor activities - hiking around the area or visiting Raystown Lake in Pennsylvania.
Profiled February 2018
Erica Bazow
Full Name: Erica Bazow
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Radford University
Company: Dize Group, LLC
Title: Consultant
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Annual Awards Committee (co-chair 2016)
- Bus Tour Committee
- Bus Captain
- Developing Leaders Committee (Mentorship Program lead 2015)
- Development 101
- Education Committee
- Loudoun Government Relations Subcommittee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 5 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I began my career in hospitality, selling and running events for the Marriott. After several years in the hospitality industry, I joined the Cvent Team to help build their Cvent Supplier Network (which is Expedia for meeting planners) from a hotelier's perspective. Subsequently, I worked in an account management and business development capacity before landing my first role in CRE, as a Business Developer, working for a local General Contractor.
At the end of 2017, I joined forces with the Dize Group to bring opportunities to the firm's clients. At the Dize group, I am responsible for helping our clients to increase brand awareness in the local market, advise on marketing strategy and create new client relationships.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My #1 goal is to provide Dize Group clients with opportunities to grow, build an effective marketing strategy to properly convey their skills & specialties, and to increase their revenue year over year.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Joining the CRE field, was an indirect occasion. I attended BallstonBID's Annual Meeting (Thank you, Tina Leone for inviting me!); and met the VP at my previous firm who had been in the market for a Business Development Manager, and the rest is history.
What's your favorite building or development project?
I am continuously in awe of the Southwest Waterfront's redevelopment. It has been fascinating to watch the transformation. I am thankful to have walked the project through the NAIOP Developing Leaders Mentorship Program; and look forward to returning as the project continues to develop. I also could not go without mentioning the addition of the Silver Line Metro. Growing up in Herndon, it is very exciting for me to see the changes the Metro is already having on Northern Virginia. I look forward to seeing the many development projects in the coming years along the Silver Line.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Amy Cuddy's, Presence
- Daniel Pink's, Drive
- Dale Carnegie's, How to win friends and influence people
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Work two jobs ... Your first job is to help other people. Your second is your actual job. The better you are at #1, the easier #2 becomes.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP Northern Virginia has been vital to my success ... Without the membership and my involvement, I would not have made the invaluable connections I have over the past 5 years. As with any organization I join, I dove in head first into getting involved with committees and volunteering for anything I could (even things like Bus Captain which challenged me in new ways). Because of the hard work of the staff and other like-minded members, I have had the ability to establish robust relationships, not only with my peers through Developing Leaders, but throughout the organization as well.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
My husband and I were blessed with a beautiful baby girl in May 2017 and our world was turned right-side-up! There is nothing more rewarding than spending time together as a family and watching our little girl grow and thrive (I also like being active and you can find me at Vanish Brewery in Lucketts at least once a week).
Profiled January 2018
Philip Steinhoff
Full Name: Philip Steinhoff
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Science, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Military Institute
Company: Patcraft
Title: Account Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Developing Leaders Mentor Program
- DL Golf Planning Committee
- Loudoun Government Relations Subcommittee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 2.5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 2 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
As an Account Manager with Patcraft, I work with a variety of end users, A&D firms, and flooring contractors to help identify the best flooring solutions for their needs. I work to understand each customer's challenges and what they most desire from their flooring in order to best achieve their goals, ultimately transforming the performance of their space. Whether it is the need for easy to clean flooring, wayfinding in a senior living facility, collaborative spaces for businesses, or calming areas to promote better learning; our vast selection of both hard and soft surface flooring allows me to be the solution provider for a variety of businesses and clients.
I spent the first part of my career designing local, state, and government projects as a Civil Engineer in Richmond. My time spent as an engineer allowed me to establish my design foundation, as well as a desire to be out in the field. I was fortunate to start my career around the flooring industry, which included frequent interactions with people out in the field, and ultimately has made my transition to the position I hold today much easier.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Ultimately, to become the industry leader in the built environment - no matter where my path may take me. Additionally, I would like to follow my passion outside of my career and open a waterfowl habitat lodge out west.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Growing up, I have always had the desire to see buildings evolve. I think it is fascinating to design a project and watch as the plans come to life. I have been a part of the CRE environment directly since I began my career, but it was usually only one job at a time. Currently, I am involved with multiple CRE projects at a time which has enabled my drive moving forward.
What's your favorite building or development project?
I would have to say the Capital One development project in Tysons. This project jumped to the top of my list after attending a site tour with fellow NAIOP mentor groups. We were able to have an in depth look at the overall site plan, future phasing of the project, and tour the Capital One Tower under construction. The views from the top of the tower are impressive!
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Make Your Bed, Admiral William H. McRaven
- It's your Ship, Captain D. Michael Abrashoff
- Getting Past No: Negotiating in Difficult Situations, William Ury
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Be present in every situation.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP Northern Virginia has been an integral part in growing my career. The number of members involved in the organization who want to help you succeed is overwhelming. Due to being new to the industry (and even newer to the region), they continue to help open doors and create lasting experiences; this has also led to establishing lasting relationships, both personally and professionally.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Anything sports related to stay active
- Duck Hunting
- Golf
Profiled December 2017
Henry Hillmann
Full Name: Henry P. Hillmann
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Science, Pennsylvania State University
Company: Hillmann Consulting, LLC
Title: Director of Disaster Services
Business Development Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Developing Leaders Mentor Program - 3 years
- Development 101
- DL Golf Planning Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 8 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 4 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
As Director of Disaster Services, I am responsible for the coordination and management of catastrophic real estate losses, such as hurricanes, fires, floods, earthquakes, and building collapses. Our team guides clients through disaster response and recovery. Hillmann identifies environmental hazards, creates remediation plans, and works with all involved parties to get clients back to business in a safe, efficient, and cost-effective manner.
As Business Development Manager, I am responsible for pursuing new opportunities and clients for all of Hillmann's service lines, primarily in the DMV area. I am also responsible for the continued performance and growth of our Disaster Services nationwide.
My history with Hillmann runs deep. I went to kindergarten under Hillmann's corporate office in New Jersey. I then grew up in a small branch office that was run out of my parents house in Northern Pennsylvania. After working part-time in high school and through my college career at Penn State I joined Hillmann full-time. Beyond my experience with Hillmann, I have worked in the construction industry since I was 10 years old.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My ultimate career goal is to become involved in a majority of natural and man-made disasters internationally.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
My very first disaster project motivated me to pursue my current career path. The fast-paced nature of crisis situations provides great opportunities to learn and grow. I am always honored to meet and learn from the character of people that are truly at the core of communities and businesses. People that are at the foundation of disaster recovery always tend to be kind-hearted, yet brutally direct, hasty, yet intelligently controlled, and concerned, yet calmly composed.
What's your favorite building or development project?
The Wharf - It has been remarkable to see an entire new district of a city come out of the ground. I'm excited to walk the streets of the final product.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Siddhartha - Hermann Hesse
- The World is Flat - Thomas L. Friedman
- The Source - James A. Michener
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Be responsive and responsible in your communication with colleagues and clients. Be timely, thorough, and direct.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP Northern Virginia has provided me with a slew of opportunities to meet and learn from real estate professionals. I have learned a great deal from NAIOP about the different phases and aspects of real estate that I did not have exposure to, but have had great impact on my ability to understand my clients needs and goals.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Traveling
- Anything Outdoors
- Building Furniture
Profiled September 2017
Bailey Putnam
Full Name: Bailey Putnam
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Arts, Communication: Public Relations; Mississippi State University
Company: Powers Brown Architecture
Title: Business Development & Marketing Coordinator
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Development 101
- Developing Leaders Mentorship Program
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 4 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 3 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
My main responsibility is leading the regional marketing pursuit efforts in all practice areas within Washington, D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia. To that end, I attend industry events and professional affiliate meetings; spend time cultivating and developing potential business prospects and serve as a resource in terms of strategy and knowledge in order to win projects. I also handle the in-house tasks of drafting/editing RFPs/RFQs, maintaining/updating our website, identifying content to pitch to reporters/editors and maintaining a social media presence. In addition, as part of our national marketing team I work to enhance the firm's brand, while identifying and maintaining successful business relationships throughout the US and Canada.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Ultimately, I want to incorporate my talents and experience into promoting performing arts and keeping creativity alive. I was inspired by VisionDC's initiative to integrate art into commercial real estate by bringing developers and artists together to design and implement art projects throughout the cityscape. My dream is to figure out how to meld my passion for music/dance/art with the skill set I have acquired within the commercial real estate industry.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I did not choose commercial real estate, CRE chose me -- just kidding. We all make (conscious or unconscious) choices that lead us to where we are today. However, I had no intention of working in real estate after college. I figured I would be working for a prominent public relations firm. Naturally, I took a research position at a commercial real estate analytics firm, which was a great stepping-stone into the commercial real estate world. I then decided research was not enough and shifted to my current role. There are a lot of great people willing to help each other, which is what keeps me in this industry.
What's your favorite building or development project?
My office is located in Falls Church, so I venture out to the Mosaic District in Merrifield every now and then. It has completely transformed in the past few years alone. EDENS did a marvelous job creating an urban environment and revitalizing the area. To choose a little less predictable development, I am really excited for NoMa Green -- a new park next to the Metropolitan Branch Trail and New York Avenue bridge in DC. There are countless glass boxes in that area. The green space will be a lovely addition, creating more balance and a better sense of community.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Giver, Lois Lowry
- Who Says You Can't? You Do, Daniel Chidiac
- The Pathfinder, Nicholas Lore
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
I still have a lot to learn, but I have learned attitude and persona are crucial in this tight-knit community. This industry is heavily relationship-driven, as we all know. It is important to maintain integrity and treat others with respect -- competitor or not -- you never know what opportunities could arise.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
As I mentioned previously, there are many intelligent, driven people in this industry who unite in a common goal of paying it forward. NAIOP is a means to that end. It has helped me establish relationships and has provided numerous educational and leadership opportunities.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Outdoor activities: tennis, golf, camping/hiking, traveling
- Various fitness classes (ballet, HIIT, yoga, trapeze)
- Taste-testing new restaurants in the DMV
Profiled August 2017
Stephen Powell
Full Name: Stephen B. Powell, Jr.
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering, University of Maryland: College Park
Company: Penzance
Title: Assistant Vice President; Development
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Fairfax Government Relations Subcommittee
- Development 101, Presenter
- Developing Leader Award 2016
- Developing Leaders Mentorship Program
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 11 in construction; 4 in development
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 3 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
Responsible for managing a wide range of development and construction activities to achieve successful business plan execution. Facilitate detailed coordination with other internal departments such as Acquisitions, Asset Management and Leasing as well as management and oversight of a wide variety of external consultants, vendors and third party professionals. The primary professional responsible for the execution of the development and construction activities for multiple assigned projects at various stages of the development and construction cycle. Projects may range in size and scope from a 2,500SF turn-key tenant build-out to million plus square footage assemblages with a multi-year entitlement and design process. Ultimately responsible for managing and coordinating all development & construction activities from acquisition, due diligence, and business plan underwriting through successful project delivery of an income producing asset within budget and on schedule.
What is your ultimate career goal?
To start my own businesses. These include a real estate development firm, a construction firm, and a restaurant.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
My career in commercial construction led me to question why we were building certain product types, why the building heights were set at a certain height, the financial strategy behind the deal, etc. I wanted to know why I was building what I was building.
What's your favorite building or development project?
My favorite development project is Burnham Place project at Union Station. While it is years before the project will be completed, I find it fascinating to create new developments above our existing infrastructure.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Art of War
- Team of Rivals
- The Grapes of Wrath
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Speak less and listen more, you will be surprised at how much more effective your words will be when you do speak. You will also be surprised at how much you learn.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP has exposed me to a network of professionals that I can talk with about my various endeavors and business opportunities. I also have built a solid network of companies to work on my projects.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Golf
- Go for a drive
- Go camping
- The more time I can spend outside, the better.
Profiled July 2017
Brett Schweitzer
Full Name: Brett Schweitzer
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Science, Finance, Robert H. Smith School of Business, University of Maryland
Company: CBRE
Title: Associate, Advisory & Transaction Services
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Bus Tour Committee
- Bus Tour Captain
- Developing Leaders Mentorship Program
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 3 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 2.5 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I am a brokerage associate within an Advisory and Transaction Services team at CBRE. My primary focus is landlord and tenant representation across the Northern Virginia market. I am involved in all facets of the leasing process, from initial marketing and asset positioning, to transaction and final lease negotiation. The tough question I get from people outside of the industry is what exactly is it that I do. I never seem to have a consistent answer on this - every day entails a completely new agenda, with different clients and varying objectives.
My initial experience in this market came via an internship with American Real Estate Partners while I was at Maryland. My time with the AREP team provided me with valuable experience and exposure to many of the markets throughout the region which I continue to work in today.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Big picture, when all is said and done, it would be extremely rewarding to look back and reflect on all that I had a part in that shaped the market, community and industry. From new developments to innovations in how deals get done, there is so much opportunity to make a difference and leave a mark in the coming years.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I have always been a people person. I knew early on that I did not want to graduate college and spend my working hours in front of a computer screen. I needed a role where I was constantly on the go, and waking up each morning with a totally different agenda than the day before. Interacting with such sharp and intelligent people on a daily basis makes this job and industry so compelling to me.
The fact that my father, Paul Schweitzer, has been in the business for over 30 years didn't hurt either! He has been an amazing resource as I establish a career path of my own. While he warned me against what might be ahead, I made the jump right out of college into the business and have not looked back since.
What's your favorite building or development project?
Too many to pick from, but for the sake of a response, Tysons Tower. Countless people worked tirelessly for years to design, build and deliver the 525,000 square foot trophy building rising above the Tysons Corner Mall. It just so happened that the building opened for business the week I joined the team at CBRE. Exposure to a project of that scale early on taught me so much of what I apply across the portfolio today. Macerich has been a tremendous client to work with, and we continue to explore creative ideas and approaches to drive the success of the project. As Phase I nears full occupancy, we have our sights set on the next big project to further alter the landscape in Tysons.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Unbroken by Lauren Hillenbrand
- How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
- Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
The devil is in the detail.
Whether it is leases, proposals or simple emails, so much information is exchanged on a daily basis that we tend to selectively read and prioritize certain items. Taking the time to analyze and process everything I come across puts me in an advantageous position when the time comes to execute.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
My network, both professionally and personally, would not be nearly this far along three years into my career without all the amazing people NAIOP has put me in touch with. Joining in the beginning of my career was the best choice I could have made, opening up doors and cultivating new relationships that have only grown stronger over time. The DL Mentorship program has been a great learning experience, enabling me to pick up career advice and guidance from the best in the business.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Although I grew up in the area, I just recently moved into downtown DC last year. Exploring the neighborhood and spots you wouldn't typically spend time in has been fascinating. There is always something going on in the area, and never a dull moment to try something new when the opportunity presents itself.
- Supporting all DC sports team, especially the Redskins and Wizards - although I have yet to see any win a championship! I am still holding out hope that one of our teams is bound to surprise us all sooner than everyone expects.
- Food is a passion of mine. While I'll admit I am not the best in the kitchen, I do enjoy trying new restaurants and unique dishes in the area. We are spoiled with the number of amazing restaurants in DC, which makes it easy to find things I enjoy.
Profiled June 2017
Emily Barnette
Full Name: Emily Barnette
Education/Professional Certifications:
Masters of Science in Leadership, Duquesne University
Bachelor of Business Administration, AACSB, Shenandoah University
Pursuing VA Real Estate Salesperson License
Company: First Potomac Realty Trust (NYSE: FPO)
Title: Leasing Assistant, NOVA
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders
- Development 101
- Attend events throughout the year
- Volunteer
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 4.5 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I am the leasing assistant for the Northern Virginia regional office at First Potomac Realty Trust, a self-managed REIT that focuses on owning, operating, and redeveloping office and business park properties in the Washington, D.C. area. In my current role, I provide expert leasing support and valuable project leadership across the organization. I serve as a liaison between the leasing, property management, and portfolio management teams, I assist in developing marketing collateral, and directly support the VP and Director of Leasing in drafting proposals and maintaining databases. I network often with the broker community, and maintain relationships through active participation in NAIOP. I retain strong internal relationships and partnerships, boost morale, and lend stability within this competitive industry.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My ultimate goal is to become a full-on leasing representative (that maybe dabbles in development, too) at First Potomac. I thoroughly enjoy the landlord side of commercial real estate, as well as the flexibility that comes with it. Owning, designing, and adding value to your own properties is exciting!
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I sort of fell into commercial real estate. Prior to my current role, I was doing well on the residential leasing side. First Potomac reached out to me one day, I took a leap of faith, and haven't looked back! I am constantly learning new things, meeting fantastic people, and enhancing my knowledge of the marketplace.
What's your favorite building or development project?
I think I might be playing a little favoritism, but I would say my absolute favorite project is our Three Flint Hill office building in Fairfax, Virginia. We completely renovated a tired building, and leased it up quickly. Three Flint Hill is a gorgeous building that I am always proud to show off. My second favorite would be Macerich's Tysons Mall project, specifically the plaza and its access to the Metro; this project completely reimagined the Tysons Mall space!
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Our Iceberg Is Melting: John Kotter & Holger Rathgeber
- 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Stephen Covey
- Privilege, Power, and Difference: Allan Johnson
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Change is the only constant in life-and although it can be uncomfortable, sometimes change is just the push you need to take the next positive step in your life.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
I have met so many wonderful people across countless industries. Not only have I cultivated great relationships, but I've expanded my knowledge of the CRE industry and increased my confidence as young professional. Development 101 is a fantastic program that I boast about often, it has really allowed me to develop more awareness of the marketplace, as well as other areas of commercial real estate that I do not typically see. I wish I could take it every year!
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Going to sports games and concerts with my husband
- I recently repurchased my first car from the person I sold it to years ago (lifted Jeep Cherokee), it needs a lot of TLC, but I love working on it, and slowly getting it back into its prime condition
- Eating great food, being outside, and spending time with my family and dogs
Profiled April 2017
Michael Alloggio
Full Name: Michael Alloggio
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Science in Architecture, University of Maryland
LEED AP BD+C
Company: Turner Construction Company
Title: Procurement Agent
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- NAIOP Developing Leaders Committee
- Developing Leaders Mentor Program
- Project Tours Committee for 1775 Tysons Boulevard
- Development 101
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 5.5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? Two years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I am currently a Procurement Agent with Turner Construction Company focusing on the Conrad Washington, DC located at CityCenter DC and the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. From project pursuit through construction and operations, it is my responsibility to solicit interest and evaluate prospective and current subcontractors on a number of criteria including capabilities, past performance, safety, and financial stability. Once a project has been secured, I review construction contract documents to facilitate the development of trade-specific scopes of work alongside our operations team; these scopes ultimately become the foundation upon which an agreement can be made. Thereafter, I will meet qualified subcontractors for each trade to review the subcontractors' proposals, the scopes, and negotiate final subcontracts, of which I will be accountable for the duration of the project.
After graduating the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, I joined Turner Construction as a field engineer. I spent several years in the field, gaining the knowledge to help coordinate construction, bring a building and team together, and translate a concept in drawing form to a reality. I also spent one year working for Turner Mid-Atlantic's two General Managers; this opportunity gave me a comprehensive perspective on our business and the insight to truly understand how build a successful project from start to finish.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Every year, Turner creates what we call "Turner City," which is composite of projects we have built across the world in any given year; all told, the vast diversity among building types results in the essentials for a fully functioning city. In this vein, I aspire to become a General Manager with Turner and hope to make an impact by taking part in transformative projects across different market sectors that leave us far better off than where we started. In this role, I would also be in a position to help foster the career of our Turner team and make for a better experience both professionally and personally.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I have always been fascinated with the built environment; it defines the space within which we live, work and play. I'm hoping to help push and improve those boundaries.
What's your favorite building or development project?
During my senior year at the University of Maryland, I was asked to design a development at an existing parking lot in Washington, DC bound by New York Avenue NW and I Street NW to the north and south and 9th St NW and 10th St NW to the east and west. My designs included a museum, then later a residential tower. Fast forward six years later, and I am now responsible for overseeing the procurement of subcontractors for the Conrad Washington, DC at this very same site! It's funny how my career has come full circle. I may be biased, but I am really impressed with the CityCenter DC Development. It has brought a lot of excitement and energy to downtown DC in a very tasteful manner. I look forward to helping the Conrad Washington, DC come to fruition.
The Wharf is another major development that I find exciting. I think it will breathe new life into an area that has been dormant for quite some time, and I look forward to seeing how it will reinvigorate the Southwest Waterfront.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber
- Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance
- Brunelleschi's Cupola by Giovanni Fanelli and Michele Fanelli
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Keep to your commitments. It is a lot easier to be a starter than a closer.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP Northern Virginia has opened a new world of opportunity. In just two years, I have been fortunate to meet with so many professionals in the commercial real estate industry through Developing Leaders and the greater membership at large. NAIOP has also enabled me to gain comprehensive insight into our industry, which has helped me better understand how construction contributes to the larger development spectrum. While education is invaluable, some of my favorite events have been service-focused. With the Developing Leaders Snack Pack Project, we are able to make a big difference in our community while meeting peers in the industry. This is a really genuine way to make a connection.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Traveling with my fiance: I like to joke that I have been to more countries than states.
- Jogging along the Potomac River on the Mount Vernon Trail: By no means am I a long-distance runner, but we live in such a great city and I really enjoy the views and ability to decompress when out on the trail.
- Photography
Profiled March 2017
Jeff Sifen
Full Name: Jeff Sifen
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering, University of Central Florida
Company: Sifen, Inc.
Title: Manager, Acquisitions & Development
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Mentor Program
- Development 101
- DL Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? Four years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? Three years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
After finishing my engineering degree I had the great opportunity to move to the DC region with Sifen, Inc., to do ground-up development for our self-storage portfolio. My main responsibilities include managing the discovery, underwriting, and negotiation of deals and support during entitlement.
Since the 1980's, Sifen, Inc., has been an active real estate owner/developer in the Mid-Atlantic region with a dedication to leading design and architecture standards. Since inception we have built millions of square feet of multi-family, retail, office, and self-storage assets; with the latter including more than 40,000 completed units and a 12,000 unit pipeline.
What is your ultimate career goal?
In the near term I am focused on learning more about CRE and growing our portfolio in the DC region. Ultimately, I would like to continue increasing my role within the company and become a partner.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Aside from the family connection, commercial real estate is at the intersection of community, entrepreneurship, politics, and finance, all of which broadly appealed to me since a young age.
What's your favorite building or development project?
National Harbor is at the top of my list. I have always admired the Peterson Companies and their vision and execution at the National Harbor furthers their reputation as a trailblazer. In conjunction with the casino and outlets, the activation of the waterfront along with the Las Ramblas inspired urban environment gives area an exciting and appealing atmosphere.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- A. Lincoln: A Biography - Ronald C. White
- Grand Avenues - Scott Berg
- Mindset - Carol Dweck
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
I have found the desire to dig deeper and try to answer the question "why?" to be very helpful. Why does the person you're negotiating with want a certain contingency; why does it matter what size a water pipe is; why does a certain age demographic prefer certain features; etcetera.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
A banker recommended NAIOP to me when I first moved to the area and I found it to be a great jumping off point for my CRE career. Not only has my knowledge of CRE grown through online courses and educational events, but I've also been able to build a great network of friends, mentors, and colleagues. Often times getting deals or hiring consultants through this network.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Sports (play golf and watch the Miami Dolphins)
- Mentor and Tutor learners at the Fairfax County Adult High School
- Spend time with my fiance Haley and our golden doodle Luna
Profiled February 2017
David Schneider
Full Name: David Schneider
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Arts in English, Tufts University
Juris Doctor, Emory University School of Law
Company: Holland & Knight LLP
Title: Associate
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Government Relations Committee
- Government Relations Fairfax Subcommittee
- DL Project Tour - 1775 Tysons Blvd Planning Committee and Moderated June 23 Event.
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? Five years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? Four years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I am a land use and zoning attorney with Holland & Knight. My practice focuses on land use, real estate development and property rights litigation. I have successfully represented applicants in a wide variety of complex land use applications in jurisdictions throughout Northern Virginia. I have a range of experience including representing clients in feasibility studies and due diligence and through the legislative and ministerial approval processes and, when necessary, representing clients in judicial appeals on zoning and land use matters.
What is your ultimate career goal?
To continue my current trajectory and become a land use and zoning partner. I would like to eventually look back on my career as I drive through Northern Virginia and see the developments I was a part of as a visual representation of my career.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I was born and raised in Northern Virginia. I got involved in this industry to have a hand in the growth and development of my hometown.
What's your favorite building or development project?
The next one.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
- Ulysses - James Joyce
- The entire Harry Potter series - J.K. Rowling
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
To look at the big picture and to listen. Often land use and development matters take the form of multi-party negotiations. You have to protect your clients' interest while trying to understand the view point from the community and local government.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
Without a doubt, the relationships formed in NAIOP have been beneficial to my career, especially within the Developing Leaders. The Developing Leaders committee attracts so many up-and-comers in the industry. No other organization attracts this group of people to participate as consistently as the Developing Leaders.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Spending time with my wife Kelly
- Playing with my two beagles Lizzie and Dapper
- Playing Tennis
Profiled January 2017
Courtney Davison
Full Name: Courtney Davison
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Science in Accounting, University of Richmond
CPA
Company: Baker Tilly
Title: Senior Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Planning Committee
- 2016 Bus Tour Captain
- Developing Leaders Mentor Program - 3 years
- February 25, 2016 - Served as the moderator for a Developing Leaders panel discussion on Financial Wellness
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 10.5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? Five years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I am a senior tax manager with Baker Tilly, a full-service accounting and advisory firm that offers industry specialized services in audit, tax, and management consulting. My role at Baker Tilly includes working closely with construction and real estate companies and their owners on tax planning, tax compliance, and a variety of other business matters. Some of my specific responsibilities include working with owners on succession planning, understanding the tax implications of various real estate transactions, and handling issues with the Internal Revenue Service.
I graduated with a degree in accounting from the University of Richmond and earned my CPA shortly after graduation. I have been with Baker Tilly my entire career, which has given me the opportunity to work with many of the same clients over the past ten years.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My ultimate career goal is to be a partner with Baker Tilly and to continue to serve companies in the real estate industry along with their owners.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I have always had a fascination with new development which led me to request to be a part of Baker Tilly's real estate practice. We have more than one hundred professionals who serve the real estate and construction industry in our Tysons office.
What's your favorite building or development project?
My favorite developments are those that I toured with NAIOP prior to their completion. These include City Center in DC, the Mosaic District in Fairfax County, and Tysons Tower in Tysons Corner. It is incredible to see how these developments have transformed their respective areas in a relatively short period of time.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- I Know How She Does It: How Successful Women make the Most of Their Time - Laura Vanderkam
- The Power of Now - Eckhart Tolle
- The Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (It's a real page-turner)
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
I've learned to accept that change is constant, and I try my best to adapt to the changes I encounter as seamlessly as possible and with a positive attitude.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
Through my involvement with NAIOP Northern Virginia, I have met many wonderful individuals who have enriched my life both professionally and personally. I look forward to continuing to build these relationships, and hope to find ways to help my contacts reach their business goals while also expanding my client base for Baker Tilly.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- I love spending time with my husband, Derek, and my 2.5 year old daughter, Aubrey.
- I have been an avid runner for the past 20+ years, and I enjoy racing in 5K and 10K events.
- I've been taking boxing and yoga classes at Urban Boxing, which is a boxing gym that my husband owns in the West End of DC. These have been some of the hardest yet best workout classes of my life!
Profiled June 2016
Jeremiah Watts
Full Name: Jeremiah Watts
Education/Professional Certifications:
Brown University, Bachelors in Organizational Behavior
Company: D|WATTS Construction
Title: Principal
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- NAIOP Developing Leaders Committee
- Development 101
- DL Mentor Program
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 14 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? Four years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I had the good fortune to spend over a decade at one of the area's top commercial construction firms where I led a large team and delivered projects for some of the areas biggest firms including Hilton, Google, BAE, and Deloitte. At my previous firm, I was also very hands on in mentoring and teaching our staff in project management best practices. In my new role with D|WATTS, I focus on project management and delivery but also take the lead on our in-house education and training for our office personnel.
What is your ultimate career goal?
For D|WATTS Construction to grow into one of the top 4 commercial general contractors in the Washington DC Market in the next 10 years. Our goal is to create a firm where we not only deliver some of the most exciting projects for the areas top firms but that we also build a company that uses it's platform and resources as a means to improve our community and the lives of our employees (both personally and professionally). A few steps as a company we've taken to achieve the latter of the goals includes us making a commitment to hire interns every year from underprivileged communities (we've got three coming on board this summer!), give our employees 2 extra days off a year when they are used for community service and pay for employee gym memberships. In addition we've also developed an executive development program for our staff to pursue, if they are so inclined to do so. Our thought is to not only build great projects over the next 10 years but to do what we can to build better communities, employees and peer relationships along the way.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I actually come from a family of builders. I have a few uncles that focused on residential construction for years and many of them built their own homes which I always thought was pretty cool. I also had an opportunity to intern with Gilbane my Junior year at Brown which helped continue to guide me in that direction. I think the personal relationships and friendships developed along the way is what makes me want to stay involved in the commercial real estate industry for the rest of my career.
What's your favorite building or development project?
My favorite project was in 2009 for the Hilton Headquarters relocation from Beverly Hills, California to Mclean, Virginia. Hilton hired their GC, Designer and CM early in the process before any plans were completed (actually while they were still finalizing building locations!) and basically said, "ready or not we are coming later this year". With failure obviously not an option, they tasked us to work together to develop budgets, for the design team to create an amazing office design that met that upfront budget and then for my firm at the time to pre-purchase long lead items and then deliver a 100,000 SF office fit out in record pace. We worked weekends, nights and did whatever it took but got them in on time and within budget. As our firms project manager, it was the fastest 6 months of my career between pre-construction and actual construction but it was an amazing feeling once we were able to deliver and shake everyone's hands at the ribbon cutting.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Alchemist
- The Secret
- The Bible
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
The value of relationships. I'm a big believer in always trying to do the right thing even when it's not the easiest or most profitable thing to do. And do your best to never burn a bridge. This industry is unbelievably small.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
It's actually helped tremendously. Not only from the connections and friendships made along the way but it's programming and events have allowed me to learn about many other facets of the real estate industry. I particularly enjoyed Development 101 series and would recommend it to anyone looking to learn how all the pieces fit together.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
Play with my newborn son, travel and I've always got a good book or two in rotation.
Profiled June 2016
Spencer Teel
Full Name: Parker "Spencer" Teel
Education/Professional Certifications:
- Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration at Christopher Newport University
- Leadership Fairfax’s Emerging Leaders Institute [ELI]
Company: TEEL Construction, Inc.
Title: Vice President
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders
- Helped organize the 2014 Snack Pack program benefiting Alternative House
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 10 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? One year and 2 months
What are your current responsibilities and background?
Business development and day-to-day business operations. I'm a matchmaker - I put our project teams together (assign the project manager and superintendent) as part of the project planning process. I've worked my way up the "corporate ladder", working summers as a laborer and assistant superintendent in high school, to a superintendent during college recesses. After graduation, I worked as a project manager for 8 years prior to being promoted to vice president.
What is your ultimate career goal?
To make TEEL Construction a leader in the commercial construction industry.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Growing up, my dad (founder and president of TEEL) told me the construction industry was tough. While a career in the family company would always be available to me, he suggested I go to school and get an education in an unrelated field. I always enjoyed the challenges construction brought, but also weighed his advice heavily while attending CNU and declaring my major. I was half way through my sophomore year when my ECON 101 professor made a big impression on me and had me convinced that being an economist for the government was the way to go; so I decided to major in business with a concentration in economics. When I told my college buddies of my decision, they essentially told me what a stupid decision that was, that I had a well-established, respected construction company in front of me and that I would be a fool if I didn't seize that opportunity. Thank God for my friends, because going into the family business was one of the best choices I've made in my life.
The gratification a successful project brings after all the blood, sweat and tears you share with your project team is indescribable. Being able to proudly put your name on a project and being able to say, "I built that" is a big motivator.
What's your favorite building or development project?
Tysons Corner Center. Whiting-Turner hired Parker Teel Construction Co. (prior to TEEL's incorporation) as a subcontractor in the mid 80s to complete the re-demising work of the shopping center when the 1st floor was converted from truck delivery/ storage space to mall tenant and common area space we know it as today. When the redevelopment was substantially complete, TEEL picked up many of the associated retail tenant build-outs. We've been working at the mall in one capacity or another (either for the landlord or tenants) ever since.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Business of Happiness - Ted Leonsis
- The Instant Millionaire - Mark Fisher
- Who Moved My Cheese - Spencer Johnson
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
We work in a tight-knit industry where your reputation is everything. Treat others the way you want to be treated.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
I've met an incredible group of my peers and have toured several fantastic project developments like The Kingsley and Tysons Tower; I would not have had the opportunity to be exposed to them if it weren't for NAIOP.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Hike in the parks around Great Falls (VA/ MD)/ McLean/ Potomac
- Improve my carpentry skills - recently built our dinning room table/ bench and a mantle around the fireplace
- Take as much time to be with wife Alison and our two sons, Finn (2 years old in March) and Hayes (7 weeks as of Feb 1)
Profiled February 2015
Jamie Hartnett
Full Name: Jamie Hartnett
Education/Professional Certifications:
- Gonzaga College High School
- James Madison University – Bachelor of Science
- Virginia Real Estate Salesperson License
Company: Simpson Properties / Simpson Development
Title: Property Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders
- I joined NAIOP too late this year to participate, however, I plan to take part in the Mentor program and Development 101 courses in 2015.
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 6 months
What are your current responsibilities and background?
Currently, I am a Property Manager for several commercial and industrial properties in the Alexandria and Springfield, VA area. As the Property Manager I have several areas of responsibilities. In general, I am responsible for the day-to-day operations and financial performance of the properties within my purview. This entails preparing annual budgets (OPEX and CAPEX), monitoring/enforcing the terms of each lease, and keeping the tenants and landlord happy with the overall well-being/success of the buildings.
I was introduced to Property Management at an early age through my mother. She has been a Property Manager for many different properties throughout the years, beginning in Alexandria, VA. After college I worked as a Visual Effects (VFX) Coordinator on several feature films at Digital Domain in L.A. The VFX Industry is a largely project based business and fortunately I was able to convince the owner of the apartment building I lived in to let me manage the building as a part time job to supplement my on again – off again job in VFX. After getting married my wife and I agreed we wanted to move home to start a family. Luckily, I was able to parlay my residential property management experience into a Tenant Services Coordinator position in Commercial Real Estate. I have been working in the Property Management arena of Commercial Real Estate ever since.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My one-size fits all response is that I want to have a long successful career in Commercial Real Estate. To be honest though, I'm still trying to figure out the facet within Commercial Real Estate - as there are many - I ultimately want to pursue. Thankfully, Property Management and organizations like NAIOP provide exposure to the many areas of real estate and I can continue to develop/expand my skill set while I search for my niche.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
While I was in Elementary and High School, my mom was the Property Manager at Carlyle Towers in Alexandria, Virginia. While she was there the 2nd and 3rd Carlyle Towers residential buildings were built and much of the surrounding area was being developed. During this time, I worked in the Carlyle buildings doing small jobs for the building Engineer and residents. Through watching and experiencing the development in that area and working in the buildings my interest in the field was sparked; particularly the Development and Brokerage aspects of the business. Although I did not start my professional career in Commercial Real Estate, my interest never subsided and led me back to the field.
What's your favorite building or development project?
I am particularly interested in revitalization projects, identifying up and coming areas/trends, and how the addition of mass transportation infrastructure can dramatically impact surrounding markets. That being said, my favorite development project is the continuing redevelopment of H Street N.E., the eventual expansion of Union Station, the S.E. Waterfront, and all of the new development happening around Tysons Corner & Route 7.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Unbroken, Laura Hillenbrand
- Drive, Daniel Pink
- How to Win Friends & Influence People, Dale Carnegie
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Do everything you can to be as informed as possible. You don't have to know all the answers, just try to ask the right questions. The world is a small place, especially here in Northern Virginia. Try to build as many contacts as possible and if possible find the six degrees of separation in everyone you meet.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
While I've only been a NAIOP member a short while, I can clearly see the many personal and professional benefits of membership. So far, I've met some great people and have received great advice. I am looking forward to attending as many seminars as possible and participating in the Development 101 and Mentor program in 2015. I have great confidence that my continued participation in the DL program and the many educational programs NAIOP has to offer will only benefit my career and understanding of Commercial Real Estate.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- I am blessed to have a beautiful wife and 2 beautiful children, Mary Katherine (22 months) and Declan (2 months). I love wrestling with them as much as possible!
- I love sports and competition so I try to play and watch them as much as possible.
- I enjoy designing single family home floor plans with Chief Architect software.
Profiled October 2014
Stephanie Murdoch
Full Name: Stephanie Murdoch
Education/Professional Certifications:
- Bachelor of Arts in English, University of Florida
- Bachelor of Science in Advertising, University of Florida
Company: Fentress Architects
Title: Business Development Coordinator
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 7 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 3 months
What are your current responsibilities and background?
As the Business Development Coordinator for Fentress Architects' DC office, I am primarily responsible for pursuing new business opportunities, identifying and developing new markets, client and consultant outreach, and proposal development.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I always loved design, and, after graduating, wanted to work with designers and use my own skills and personal interests to help shape the built environment.
What's your favorite building or development project?
I love transformative projects that have the power to unite a community and spur positive long-term change. I think Reston Town Center and Nationals Park are great examples of how commercial projects can positively affect neighborhoods and bring in new economic opportunities. I'm also very curious to the see the impact of the Mosaic District over time.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Crime and Punishment, Dostoevsky
- Hamlet, Shakespeare
- Brave New World, Huxley
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
If you have an opinion, speak up. Even if the outcome doesntt go your way, itts still important to contribute and be a part of the conversation.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
I'm a pretty new member to NAIOP Northern Virginia, but I think the organization brings so many wonderful opportunities to learn and network with other industry professionals.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- I am a Board Member and former Co-Director for Hands on DC, an all-volunteer organization that works to improve the educational environment in schools across the District of Columbia and provides scholarships to college-bound students with a financial need.
- Baseball games
- Exploring the greater region with my husband.
Profiled October 2014
Huong Van
Full Name: Huong Van
Education/Professional Certifications:
Candidate for Masters in Real Estate Development, George Mason University
Bachelors of Science in Finance, University of Central Florida
Company: First Virginia Community Bank
Title: Vice President
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- NAIOP Developing Leaders Committee Member
- NAIOP Developing Leaders Mentorship Program
- NAIOP DL Golf Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 7 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 4 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I am a lender focused on commercial real estate-related projects. I am responsible for making sound credit decisions for both my clients and my company. I was recruited from college by a large regional bank and received leadership training from their highly lauded program. Afterwards, I was fortuitously placed in one of the best markets in the world and have been focused on this arena ever since.
What is your ultimate career goal?
As cheesy as it may sound, I want to be the best banker in the market. I want to be known as a subject matter expert in lending to local real estate projects. In addition, I wouldn’t mind developing my own portfolio of income producing assets.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I was exposed to the book Rich Dad, Poor Dad in high school and saw how powerful and life changing real estate can be.
What's your favorite building or development project?
The Fallingwater house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright is my favorite. It is a beautiful representation of how modern design can embrace nature; it is also an amazing example of American ingenuity.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Rich Dad, Poor Dad
- How to Win Friends and Influence People
- Women Don’t Ask: Negotiation and the Gender Divide
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
To never assume you know more than anyone and embrace the advice of mentors.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
I have developed a great network of friends and mentors who have helped provide market intelligence and career (and life) guidance.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
CrossFit, explore the region and try new restaurants, cook
Profiled April 2014
Scott Longendyke
Full Name: Scott Longendyke
Education/Professional Certifications:
James Madison University, Bachelor of Science
LEED Accredited Professional
Company: Washington Real Estate Investment Trust
Title: Senior Project Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- NAIOP Developing Leaders Committee Member 2012, 2013
- NAIOP Developing Leaders Mentorship Program 2011, 2012
- NAIOP Development 101 2009
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 11 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 5 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
Currently I manage construction projects within our Northern Virginia portfolio. My responsibilities include estimating and preconstruction from the pre-lease stage of tenant improvement projects through construction, contractor and design consultant coordination, and ultimately, tenant occupancy. I also manage capital improvement projects to include lobby, corridor and restroom renovations throughout our Virginia portfolio.
What is your ultimate career goal?
I'd like to continue to work with architects and contractors to build new offices for our tenants to flourish their businesses and to upgrade and improve our properties to maintain WRIT's place as a commercial real estate leader in the Washington, DC region.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I originally entered into the commercial real estate industry in a business development and marketing role. I worked my way up through the ranks on the general contractor side and ultimately ended up in a construction management role for a leading commercial real estate owner.
What's your favorite building or development project?
My favorite development project would probably be Reston Town Center and the story of how that area has developed over time.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Don't Sweat the Small Stuff and It's All Small Stuff by Richard Carlson
- The Godfather by Mario Puzo
- The Business of Happiness by Ted Leonsis
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Treat everyone the way that you would like to be treated. Return phone calls. Be honest. Don't burn any bridges!
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
Being a member of NAIOP has helped me establish a large network of colleagues and friends to work with, from real estate owners to architects and engineers as well as general contractors and specialty vendors.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
I have 3 young children, Sienna 7, Hudson 5, Noah 3; so I lost my free time many years ago!
I like spending time with my family; hiking and fishing; and watching sports.
Profiled July 2013
Marie Purkert
Full Name: Marie Purkert
Education/Professional Certifications:
- Masters in Real Estate Development, George Mason University (Expected December 2014)
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Concentration in Public Relations, George Mason University
Company: christopher consultants, ltd.
Title: Regional Development Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
Developing Leaders Committee
Mentorship Program Participant and Group Coordinator
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 2 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
As Regional Development Manager of christopher consultants, ltd., a civil engineering, surveying, land planning and landscape architecture firm, I am an integral part of our Marketing and Business Development Team. I am responsible for business development activities, client outreach, identifying and developing new markets, and assisting with marketing materials, proposal development, brand identity and social media.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My goal is to help my firm grow its business, expand its presence and create and maintain strong relationships with our clients. It is also important to me to try to learn as much as I can, challenge myself regularly, strive to be an invaluable resource with a strong network and have a good time.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I saw a picture of the farm that became Tysons Corner during my freshman year of high school at Flint Hill School in Oakton, Virginia, and I knew I wanted to be part of an industry with the ability to transform space into place.
What's your favorite building or development project?
I have followed the development in and around Potomac Yard ever since the night I saw 'The Sixth Sense' at the Regal Potomac Yard 14 years ago. I am not sure if it was Bruce Willisí final realization that intrigued me or my uncleís explanation of how the big box center was only temporary and would eventually be torn down and redeveloped but either way, I was and remain fascinated.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
- Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Alborn
- Creating Your Best Life: The Ultimate Life List Guide by Caroline Miller and Dr. Michael Frisch
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Stay true to yourself, maintain your integrity, seek out a great mentor but also be a mentor, and never be afraid to ask questions or to ask for what you want.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
NAIOP has helped my career by providing me with excellent networking, educational programs and community outreach opportunities.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Relax outside, preferably by a body of water
- Enjoy being a newlywed!
- Cheer on the Redskins, Capitals and Nationals
Profiled July 2013
Nancy Hott
Full Name: Nancy Hott
Education/Professional Certifications:
George Mason University - Bachelor of Science In Marketing
Title Agent & Notary Public
Company: Stewart Title
Title: Vice President
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Member of Developing Leaders Committee
- DL Mentorship Participant
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 6 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 18 months
What is your ultimate career goal?
My career goal is to always continue to grow my skills and knowledge regarding real estate, offering my clients value, top notch customer service, and a quality product.
I would like to learn more regarding Development and Land Use. Working for a Title Insurance Company we see deals towards the end of the life cycle at closing. I would like to be more involved with conceptualizing and up front planning and design.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Having family in the real estate industry, I always saw their work ethic and drive. Real estate is such an integral part of the American Dream, to own your own Home or Land. I have become very passionate about real estate and its value as a long term investment.
What's your favorite building or development project?
The New Mixed-use project at Loudoun Station by Comstock Partners. Loudoun Station is last stop on the Silver Line Metro Rail, and is the way of the future. This project mixes urban feel with sustainable smart growth, while balancing the Live Work Play lifestyle. It has been the largest construction loan project and closing transaction that I have administer to date. It has been a lot of work but such a fantastic opportunity for both myself and Stewart Title.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
The book that has made the biggest difference in my life is The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. It was encouraging to me to find that gratitude and positivity can make a world of difference in the way you lead your life. Still looking for books 2 and 3...
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
I heard this saying from an industry leader about a year ago that still resonates with me today: Its all about showing up. Whether you are late, get lost or cannot find parking, whatever the struggle is that day, it is always better to show up instead of not at all. You never know what opportunities are missed if you never try.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
Being a member of NAIOP has provided both professional and personal opportunities for growth. From the networking opportunities to industry updates and education, NAIOP is one of the few organizations that encourages its members to become involved, and to work side by side with the best and brightest in the Real Estate Industry. Being part of the Developing Leaders allows all of us to network with our peers, and to grow these interactions into long term business and personal relationships.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
I am a foodie, so I like to try out new restaurants around town.
Spending time with Family and Friends, and my dogs.
Being active and sports, from playing tennis, kickball, or soccer to watching Washington Redskins Football!
Danny Severn
Full Name: Daniel Severn
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science - York College of Pennsylvania
Master of Science in Real Estate Business - Johns Hopkins University, Carey Business School
Company: St. John Properties, Inc.
Title: Leasing Agent
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
NAIOP New Member Committee
NAIOP Developing Leaders
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 4.5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 2 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
Oversee the leasing for St. John Properties Western MD/Northern VA branch. Approximately 1.4m square
What is your ultimate career goal?
Continue and grow within the commercial real estate field.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
My father was a significant influence on my commercial real estate career. He is a real estate attorney in Frederick, MD. From a young child, I was consistently exposed to commercial real estate.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- To Kill a Mocking Bird ~ Harper Lee
- The Big Short ~ Michael Lewis
- The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People ~ Stephen Covey
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Be responsive, even if the answer is "no"!
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
t has helped expand the St. John Properties brand in Northern Virginia, as well it has helped me grow professionally. It is a great way for face-to-face interaction with other professionals in similar industries.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Avid weight-lifter
- Boating and wake boarding
- DIY home projects
Jen Michels
Full Name: Jen Michels
Education/Professional Certifications:
Virginia Tech; B.S. in Apparel, Housing, & Resource Management
Company: First Potomac DC Management, LLC
Title: Assistant Property Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 2 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 4 months
What are your current responsibilities and background?
After graduating from Virginia Tech with an apparel design and merchandising degree, I worked retail before starting in the industry by working for Guardian Realty. I started as the property management's team administrator. I then joined the First Potomac DC Management as the Assistant Property Manager. The day-to-day is always changing, whether it be interacting with tenants, working with contractors and the engineers, coordinating tenant events, and working on the financial aspects of the properties.
What is your ultimate career goal?
As I am fairly new to the industry, I would like to continue on the property management path and grow, not only in my position, but also with First Potomac.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
My aunt, who is also one of my role models, has always encouraged me to take a look into real estate and property management. Deciding I wanted a change from retail, I thought it was perfect opportunity to start in property management.
What's your favorite building or development project?
My favorite First Potomac building is actually a development project, 440 First Street. We recently celebrated its 'topping off,' which extended the ceiling height of the original top floor and added two additional floors above that. The views of the Capitol building and Washington Monument from the top are stupendous!
Although at my last visit the property was still without walls, seeing the renderings of what it will become and how it change the streetscape of the surrounding area makes me anxious for its delivery this coming Summer.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Catcher in the Rye
- Eat, Pray, Love
- The Power
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Trust your instincts; and always be willing to step out of comfort zone to try new things.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
Being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia has really helped my career because of all the great people I've gotten to meet. It's a great facet to meet other young professionals that are in the area and all involved somehow in the industry. NAIOP also provides so many resources for learning about the surrounding market.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
Run marathons, travel when I can, and spend time with family and friends.
Kevin Stonesifer
Full Name: Kevin Stonesifer
Education/Professional Certifications:
Certified Public Accountant
Bachelor degrees in Accounting and Finance - University of Maryland
Company: Baker Tilly
Title: Senior Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee Member
- DL Mentorship Participant
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 9 year
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 3 year
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I am responsible for providing tax, assurance and business advisory services to my clients in the commercial and residential real estate market, focused on a proactive, rather than reactive, approach to help my clients meet their financial goals.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My career goal is to be recognized in the DC real estate market as a trusted business advisor who provides exceptional client service.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
Early in my career in public accounting, I was fortunate to work with one of the leading developers in the DC metropolitan area. It was an eye-opening experience to see them transform and develop communities. Through the accounting and advisory function, I was able to assist them to meet their financial goals. I enjoyed the work and liked the sense of connection to the community that it provided.
What's your favorite building or development project?
National Harbor
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Freakanomics - Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner
- Rich Dad Poor Dad - Robert Kiyosaki
- Brave New World - Aldous Huxley
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
When faced with a challenge, always stay calm, collected and focused on the best solution. Worrying, being frustrated or becoming angry has never improved a situation. When emotion leads, it will usually lead poorly.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
Being a member of NAIOP has provided great networking opportunities and insight into the careers of some very interesting people. Additionally, NAIOP has provided me with some educational opportunities through its various programs.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Spend time with family
- Play and attend sports (baseball and hockey)
- Travel
Brad Geiger
Full Name: Bradley J. Geiger
Education/Professional Certifications:
Business Management - Penn State University
Company: Cassidy Turley
Title: Associate Vice President
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Golf Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 10 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 2 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I am responsible for sourcing financing on behalf of our clients. Financing can include senior debt, construction financing, mezzanine financing and equity placement for all product types (office, multi-family, industrial and hospitality).
What is your ultimate career goal?
I would like to continue down the brokerage path and help grow our existing platform to include more deals outside the Washington, DC Metro area.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
My family has always in been in commercial real estate. My grandfather, father and uncle were all involved in either on the principal side or brokerage side of the business (albeit in Pittsburgh).
What's your favorite building or development project?
Square 54. My favorite mixed-use project due to the trophy office component, highest rent apartment project and premier retail -- and all close to my office.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Pillars of the Earth
- The Big Short
- Don't Sweat the Small Stuff
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
You're never going to stop learning. No matter how much you think you know, there's always someone with more experience that can help you improve the way you do business.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
It has helped me expand my network and connect with people in different business lines than myself.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
Races (running, triathlons), traveling and doing anything outside (hiking, kayaking, golf, swimming)
Roger Lin
Full Name: Roger S. Lin
Education/Professional Certifications:
JD/MA from American University
enrolled in GMU's MS in Real Estate Development
Company: Southern Exposure Homes; IntelliStructures Inc.
Title: Managing Partner
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee Member
- DL Mentorship Participant
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 1 year
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 year
What are your current responsibilities and background?
At Southern Exposure Homes, we build ultra-energy efficient Passivhaus and net-zero energy homes. I am intimately involved in every aspect of the business from land acquisition, design, construction management and finally, marketing and sales. While I am no good at swinging hammers, I am really good at cleaning and moving building materials!
At IntelliStructures, using the knowledge and skills we have from building high performance homes, we provide high performance framing solutions to help production builders to stay ahead of increasingly stringent energy and air-tightness standards in building enclosures. My role is to develop our line of products and services and market them to builders and design professionals.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Become the "go to" builder of what I call, "Homes for the Future": highly comfortable, healthy and energy efficient homes that are affordable.
Help bring the technology, materials and methodology used in creating high performance building enclosures to mainstream Single-Family, Multi-family home building and light commercial construction.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
I've always considered real estate to be the best investment vehicle because I can see, touch and improve its intrinsic value. I've manage to have some success and experience working in residential real estate and would like to learn how to be successful in commercial real estate too.
What's your favorite building or development project?
Apple's new corporate headquarters.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason
- Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
- Life of Pi by Yann Martel
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Take risks early and often but only after knowing what risks exist and how to manage them.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
It's already helped me meet people who have much more knowledge and experience in various facets of the real estate business. Everyone has been so open and generous with their time and knowledge.
NAIOP events are also great ways to learn about developments that are happening in our region.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Time with family & friends.
- Read geeky stuff like building science, thermography and construction techniques.
- Bake
John Kusturiss
Full Name: John E. Kusturiss, III
Education/Professional Certifications:
Master in Business Administration - George Washington University
Bachelor of Applied Science - University of Delaware
Company: Equity Residential
Title: Senior Construction Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Arlington County Government Committee
- Mentorship Program Participant
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 7 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 1/2 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
In my current role as a Senior Construction Manager on the development team, I am responsible for overseeing all facets during the development cycle of the apartment project I am working on. I assist in the underwriting and due diligence used in the initial investment evaluation, lead the design team through the construction document development and entitlement process, as well as coordinate the procurement of all permits. Basically I am responsible for overseeing the construction of the new asset from concept through stabilization.
What is your ultimate career goal?
I would like to continue to grow as real estate professional and to eventually start or become a partner in a development/private equity company focusing on multifamily projects.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
As a Senior Construction Manager at Equity Residential, I have the ability to produce something tangible that positively affects a community and creates a sense of home for the residents that occupy my finished projects. I thoroughly enjoy the whole process from underwriting to construction.
What's your favorite building or development project?
Eisenhower Executive Office Building is my favorite building. It is one of the best examples of French architecture in the city.
2400 M Street is my favorite development project that I had the opportunity to work on. The facade is as complicated mix of two story precast panels, punch windows, and traditional masonry, which marry together nicely for a great finished product.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Born to Run by Christopher McDougall
- Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
- Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
There is no substitute for being consistent, credible, and reasonable.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
Being a member of NAIOP has vastly improved my professional network and has enabled me to make valuable contacts in the many different counties in which we operate. As a member of the Arlington County Government committee, I ensure that my company has a voice and its interests are represented at the discussions that help shape the policies which affect the real estate community.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
Spend time with my wife and daughter, compete in triathlons, and gourmet cooking.
Andrew Kowalski
Full Name: Andrew Kowalski
Education/Professional Certifications:
BA, Valparaiso University, 2004
Company: L.F. Jennings, Inc.
Title: Project Manager, Corporate Interiors
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leader Member
- Development 101 Participant
- Mentorship Program Participant
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 year
What are your current responsibilities and background?
My current responsibilities as a project manager focus on operations, pre-construction, business development, and sustaining existing business. My background has always been in construction, so I have been fortunate to learn from a lot of good individuals.
What is your ultimate career goal?
To continue to grow within the commercial construction industry and offer my clients the best service and product available.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly?
It was my family that steered me to an opportunity within the commercial construction industry and I have thoroughly enjoyed the work ever since.
What's your favorite building or development project?
They are all rewarding and each one offers the opportunity to meet and work with unique individuals. I was recently able to work on a 20,000 SF plus tenant fit out with a great project team. It was great to work with the architects, clients, CMís, and end users. This space was in a building LF Jennings just completed, so it was another opportunity to showcase the diversity of services LF Jennings offers from Base Building to Corporate Interiors.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Bible
- American Pharaoh
- The Lexus and the Olive Tree
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career?
Do not be afraid to ask questions, and listen with both ears. I learn something new every day from so many sources. It is very unique that I have the opportunity to interact with so many people with different backgrounds and goals. Listening and learning from others has helped me develop.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career?
I am relatively new to the chapter, but being able to meet and establish relationships with numerous groups, people, and firmís has been very rewarding. I would say that is has helped my career.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy hunting and fishing, anything outdoors, playing with my children, and spending time with my wife.
Alexandra L Bettius
Full Name: Alexandra L Bettius
Education/Professional Certifications:
George Mason University, MS Real Estate Development (candidate for Graduation December, 2012)
Rollins College, Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
University of Virginia, Semester at Sea -Summer 2006 Pacific Rim
Company: Cardinal Bank, McLean Virginia
Title: Real Estate Lending Officer
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 4 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 2 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
As a Real Estate Lending Officer my focus is on non-owner occupied residential or commercial real estate secured transactions, which include acquisition, development, construction, and permanent lending- and yes we are open and lending money!! Iím responsible for structuring and underwriting loans that are unique to each project based on their underlying characteristics, the sponsorís needs and Cardinalís credit standards. We portfolio our loans, so I also manage the loans I originated.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly? Although my family has a real estate background, it wasnít something that I knew from a young age I wanted to be involved in. Working in the lending and with Dennis Griffith (my boss) Iíve been able to build a great foundation, and found that real estate is my passion!
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The World is Flat by Thomas Friedman
- Banker to the Poor by Muhammad Yunnus
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career? Iíve learned how much I donít know and how much real estate is about developing long lasting relationships - itís a small world!
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career? Through Developing Leaders especially, itís been a great way to meet people my own age and get involved in the association.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
I used to ride horses, and hope that I can return to the sport in the future! For now I play golf, snowboard and study.
Ben Dutton
Full Name: Benjamin Dutton
Education/Professional Certifications:
BSc (Hons) Building Surveying, University of the West of England, Bristol UK
Company: Faithful+Gould, Inc.
Title: Vice President / Director Property Condition Assessment
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
Developing Leaders Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 13 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? December 2011
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I am a Vice President and Director of Property Condition Assessment services for Faithful+Gould, one of the worldís largest project management and cost consulting firms. I manage our condition assessment services throughout our 18 North American offices, serve as project executive on all major condition assessment programs, develop and support major clients, manage P&L for the service and provide high-level technical support for our projects.
What is your ultimate career goal? My goal is to continue with the philosophy that I have always adopted - provide an outstanding product to our clients, both from a technical standpoint and a client manage standpoint. I want to continue to grow the service while maintaining the core values of excellence.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly? I think there is a need for comprehensive condition assessment services - not the typical 'tick the box' approach to assessment, but what is the real condition of what I am buying, what investments are needed, and ultimately what is my exposure. We bring that approach to our clients and we have those clients for life!
What's your favorite building or development project? I am so fortunate to be involved in so many great projects throughout North America, from Manhattan sky scrapers to California resorts. Although my favorite are always those projects where we are an integral part of the client team and can really see where our approach directly contributes to our clientsí success.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- As an Englishman, Winston Churchillís biography is almost compulsory reading. A great story of victory over adversity and single minded determination.
- Steve Jobís biography. It demonstrates the value of never compromising quality and always striving for what you believe in.
- The English to American dictionary. When I first came to American from the UK in 2000, I was not able to get by without this!
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career? Always be the best at what you do, always strive for excellence and never compromise your standards.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career? Being part of NAIOP provides great exposure to people across our industry - not just potential clients but also other professionals. This exposure gives oneself an in-depth understanding of where the commercial market is heading and allows one to adjust plans accordingly.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
My wife and I have a three-year old daughter and a five-year old son. Additionally, I maintain a grueling travel schedule so I donít have much free time! However, when I do have free time, I like enjoying the Virginia countryside where I live and playing football (soccer).
Patrick Joseph McCrann
Full Name: Patrick Joseph McCrann
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bucknell University, BSBA 2009
Company: EDGE Commercial Real Estate (Tysons)
Title: Associate Real Estate Advisor
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Bus Tour Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 2.5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? Since July 2011
What are your current responsibilities and background?
Tenant and Landlord Representation in Leasing and Sales (Office, Industrial, and Retail)
Background - I began my career in Real Estate as an intern at Cushman & Wakefield in Tysons during my summer recesses in college. After graduation, I worked for Rosenthal Properties, LLC as an Associate to support senior management with marketing and leasing of a 4 million square foot portfolio of retail, office, and industrial projects.
My responsibilities included touring tenants, reporting to owners, facilitating proposal and lease negotiations, marketing properties and the companyís brand, and assisting in property budget preparation. I joined EDGE in May 2011 to support the Virginia Landlord and Tenant Advisory Services Team. Commercial real estate is not my only focus, however: I am also actively involved with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as a fundraiser and volunteer. I am honored to be named one of CFFís 'D.C.ís Finest Young Professionals' for 2012.
What is your ultimate career goal? I would like to eventually be a partner of a private full service brokerage and management boutique (Acquisitions, Leasing, Property Management, Asset Management and Accounting). The firm would own assets, which would be managed in-house, as well as manage projects as a third-party. Market: Northern, Virginia. In conjunction with this, I would like to eventually form an organization, association, foundation or trust focused on giving back to the people community of the D.C. Metro area.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly? My father worked at Spalding & Slye in the 80ís and started Firestone-McCrann in the 90ís, so I grew up around Real Estate. My brother Eamon McCrann is a very successful broker at Lincoln Property Company. I went into real estate because I have confidence that I will be successful, and I happen to really enjoy the people and nature of, 'the business.' I love real estate because it is something real, you can see and feel. I appreciate having the opportunity to work with a wide variety of businesses and people: from the contractor that lays the carpet to the publically traded REIT.
What's your favorite building or development project? I am thrilled to be on the frontlines of the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project, working on listings and with Tenants stretching from Tysons to Loudon. This transportation development will change the landscape of the Northern Virginia commercial real estate market for years to come.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
- Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
- Inferno by Dante Alighieri
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career? Do the right thing consistently, and good things will ultimately happen.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career? I have received professional and market education, as well as invaluable networking opportunities, to develop the EDGE brand.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Golf
- Lacrosse
- Assist in business development and marketing for my fatherís company Duncan McCrann Consulting (a national consulting practice specializing in Charter Schools Growth Management).
Thaphia (Tay) Nelson
Full Name: Thaphia (Tay) Nelson
Education/Professional Certifications:
Bachelor of Arts, Economics, American University
Company: MTAG Services, LLC (MTAG)
Title: Asset Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
Developing Leaders Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 4 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 2 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I am currently employed with MTAG Services, a nationally-rated, asset-backed securities tax lien servicer. MTAG manages the acquisition and servicing of portfolios in 23 states, covering more than 300 municipalities.
As Asset Manager, I am responsible for overseeing a portfolio of residential and commercial REO (real estate owned) and tax lien investments. My primary responsibilities include managing cash flow and portfolio projections and overseeing asset life cycle from acquisition through disposition. I work closely with brokers, attorneys and property managers, providing oversight on dispositions, legal foreclosure filings, property sales and overall asset management.
Prior to joining MTAG Services, I worked as an Asset Manager with First Potomac Realty Trust. I was responsible for managing their Northern Virginia portfolio, which comprised of 3.4 million square feet of office, industrial and flex buildings. My primary responsibilities included formulating and implementing long range real estate asset strategies and overseeing daily operational financial performance and decisions.
What is your ultimate career goal? Real Estate has been personally rewarding, ever-changing and challenging. In the long term, I hope to continue consistently developing my knowledge and broadening my financial and managerial expertise by working across different asset classes.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly? My career in commercial real estate began as a means to an end but in the process, I fell in love with the industry. As a real estate professional, it is rewarding knowing that I am tied to the development of our region in a direct way and that on a day to day basis I participate in decisions that will shape the way we live for years to come.
What's your favorite building or development project? 800 North Glebe Road, Arlington VA. Exceptional example of architectural beauty and sustainability.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Collected Autobiographies of Maya Angelou, Maya Angelou
- Supercapitalism: The Transformation of Business Democracy, and Everyday Life, Robert Reich
- Five Minutes on Mondays: Finding Unexpected Purpose, Peace and Fulfillment at Work, Alan Lurie
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career? Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness stems from a positive attitude and living a purposeful life.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career? As an active member in NAIOP, I have expanded my professional network, enhanced my professional development through educational programs and gained invaluable industry knowledge.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Volunteering with Rebuilding for Alexandria, International Lifeline Fund and Richardson Youth Center in Washington DC as a mentor.
- Outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, biking and golf whenever the weather and my schedule permits
- Spending time with family and friends
Michael D. Rockefeller
Full Name: Michael D. Rockefeller
Education/Professional Certifications:
- Certified Public Accountant
- Bachelor of Arts, Business Administration with Accounting Minor, McDaniel College
- Bachelor of Arts, Economics, McDaniel College
Company: Bond Beebe, Accountants & Advisors
Title: Senior Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Government Relations Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 12 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? over 2 years
What are your current responsibilities and background? As a Senior Manager in a CPA firm, I am responsible for supervising and providing assurance, tax and consulting and business advisory services to clients in the commercial real estate, construction, retail, and wholesale distribution industries. Additionally, I serve on a number of the Firmís internal committees charged with addressing professional practice issues and internal professional education and development.
What is your ultimate career goal? To be identified as an expert on commercial real estate and construction tax and accounting issues in the Washington, DC metropolitan area and continue to grow my client base in real estate and construction.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly? When I began my career in public accounting, I was exposed to all the Firmís many diverse practice areas before being given the opportunity to choose an industry focus. In my second year of working for the Firm, I became heavily involved with one of our family-owned business clients that had both commercial office and commercial retail real estate as part of their business and family investment holdings. Through this client, I gained a great deal of knowledge about commercial real estate from a propertyís initial planning and construction, through ongoing operations, and ultimately to the sale of the asset. I sincerely enjoyed the work and realized what a great investment commercial real estate can be, so I decided I wanted to focus my work on clients in this area.
What's your favorite building or development project? Prince Street Plaza at 1421 Prince Street in Alexandria, Virginia. This was the office building that was part of our clientís holdings at the time I was first getting involved with commercial real estate and where my interest was first developed.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- 1984 by George Orwell
- Barbarians at the Gate: The Fall of RJR Nabisco by Bryan Burrough and John Helyar
- An Inquiry Into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career? In professional services, the work can be done well, the work can be done quickly, or the work can be done inexpensively. You can have any two attributes, but you canít have all three.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career? It's provided great opportunities for networking, enhanced my knowledge of commercial real estate through educational programs, and Iíve gotten to meet some great people as a result of being a member.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
Spend time with my family
Golf whenever the family schedule permits
Enjoy good bourbon with friends
Dan Gradishar
Full Name: Daniel F. Gradishar
Education/Professional Certifications:
- Professional Engineer in Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia
- Bachelor of Science, Biological Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech
Company: GeoConcepts-Engineering, Inc.
Title: Associate
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Developing Leaders Committee
- Education/Programs Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 15 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 5 years
What are your current responsibilities and background? My experience is in environmental studies, geotechnical engineering, and construction management. I manage about 4 to 5 individuals who are engineers and geologists. I have extensive experience conducting all aspects of Phase I and II environmental site assessments including title searches to ascertain prior land use, regulatory reviews, subsurface characterization, site reconnaissance, the removal and closure of underground storage tanks, testing for asbestos and lead-based paint, collecting soil and water samples for field and laboratory analysis, field monitoring during environmental drilling of soil borings, and the installation of groundwater monitoring wells. My geotechnical experience consists of design and construction management services including management of field investigations, settlement calculations for foundations, slope stability analysis, and earthwork requirements.
What is your ultimate career goal? Continue to expand my client network and bring in new and exciting projects.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly? I enjoy watching a project start from either raw land or a demolished building to a new building. The entire process is interesting from due diligence until final punch lists and occupancy.
What's your favorite building or development project? St. Elizabeth's West Campus Development is my favorite project since I have been involved early on in the planning stage, and now the buildings are finally being constructed. I enjoy going out to the site when I can as something has changed every time that I visit.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Fight for Fairfax: A Struggle for a Great American County by Russ Banham
- Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
- Earth in the Balance by Al Gore
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career? Keep your promises and be honest.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career? The people whom I have connected with at NAIOP are my clients, my colleagues, my team members, and my friends.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy spending time with my family, playing sports, and relaxing on any beach.
Jessica Miller
Full Name: Jessica Miller
Education/Professional Certifications:
- Masters of Science degree in Real Estate from Johns Hopkins University in 2010
- Bachelors of Science in Business Administration through the Honors Program at Virginia Tech with a Major in Finance and a Minor in Communications
Company: Cushman & Wakefield, McLean, Virginia
Title: Director
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- I work with NAIOPís Developing Leaders Group helping with their real estate education initiatives.
- Bus Tour Captain
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 9 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? over 2 years
What are your current responsibilities and background? I am a commercial office broker; I lease and sell properties on behalf of tenants and owners.
What is your ultimate career goal? I hope to continue to help my clients grow their businesses and fill their buildings. If all goes well I will own a few profitable buildings of my own one day.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly? I sold my first house in Baltimore without an agent and I realized how much fun it was to use my negotiating skills to make deals and money.
What's your favorite building or development project? I have always liked the Qwest building in Ballston, 4250 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA. One of my first transactions in commercial real estate was to sublease several floors on behalf of Qwest, so I spent many hours waiting for tours in the trophy class lobby. Even though it was built in the late 90ís I still think it is still one of the nicest buildings in Northern Virginia.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Getting Things Done by David Allen
- The Art of Seduction by Robert Greene
- AndÖ of course, my book - A Womanís Guide to Successful Negotiating
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career? Never say no to an opportunity that may take you out of your comfort zone. You never know who you will meet, what you will learn, or what adventure it will lead to.
How has being a member of NAIOP Northern Virginia helped your career? It gave me a chance to get to know some amazing people in our industry at all experience levels and specialized real estate expertise. I feel as if I can reach out to most of them if I need advice or a referral.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Write
- Travel
- Shop
Brett Lavoie
Full Name: Brett A. Lavoie
Education/Professional Certifications:
- George Mason University School of Law (JD, 2007)
- Harvard University (BA, 2000)
- Member of the Virginia Bar
Company: COOLEY LLP, Reston, Virginia
Title: Associate
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Member of the NAIOP Northern Virginia Developing Leaders Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 6 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 year
What are your current responsibilities and background? I advise clients in all aspects of the commercial real estate life cycle, including: entity formation and joint ventures; acquisition and disposition; development; and construction and permanent financing. Additionally, I represent landlords and tenants in the negotiation of commercial office, retail and industrial leases.
What is your ultimate career goal? To be in a position to provide high-value leadership and counsel to companies developing and maintaining impactful commercial, residential and mixed-use projects in the Mid-Atlantic region.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly? I gained exposure to commercial real estate through friends working in the industry and immediately developed a fascination with all aspects of the development cycle (a fascination that continues to grow each day).
What's your favorite building or development project? As an employee working in the Reston Town Center for the last 5 years, Iíve witnessed how a well-conceived and well-executed development can bring vibrancy and economic vitality to a community.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine by Michael Lewis
- Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell
- The Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career? Iíve learned that alerting clients to potential challenges and concerns is helpful, but real value is added by offering practical and achievable solutions.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Obsess about the Red Sox, Patriots and Celtics
- Attempt to improve my golf game
- Expand my grilling repertoire
Morgan Watson
Full Name: Morgan Watson
Education/Professional Certifications:
The University of Georgia (UGA); Terry College of Business
Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing
Company: Carr Workplaces
Title: Managing Director
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
NAIOP Developing Leaders Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 3.5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1.5 years
What are your current responsibilities and background?
I am the Managing Director of the Rosslyn Location within the Carr Workplaces portfolio. I work on a broad range of disciplines including office leasing and sales, marketing, team management, center operations, client retention, and business development. At Carr Workplaces, we provide flexible office space and memorable service for start-up/home-based businesses, companies in transition, and businesses expanding into new markets.
Prior to my experience at Carr Workplaces, I worked with an International Office Suite Provider as Broker Channel Manager and later, Area Sales Manager. As Broker Channel Manager, I was responsible for cultivating relationships within the brokerage community and driving small space opportunities to each business center within our DC metro area portfolio. As Area Sales Manager, I was responsible for office leasing and sales for business centers within the DC portfolio.
What is your ultimate career goal? To build a reputation in the industry that is highly respected. To be the go-to contact for small and/or temporary office space requirements.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate, directly or indirectly? I have some wonderful mentors that played a big role in my decision to begin this journey.
What's your favorite building or development project? I am partial to 1001 19th Street North in Rosslyn. I am looking forward to the new developments in Rosslyn.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life:
- A Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
- The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
- The Principle of the Path by Andy Stanley
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career? Make sure your clients know how much you value them and care about their success. I have also learned to put EVERYTHING in writing!
How has being a member of NAIOP helped your career? Carr Workplaces offers a unique service that is different from that of most members. Therefore I see this membership as an opportunity to spread the word about what we do, cultivate relationships, and determine ways in which we can partner with other members to help businesses in any stage of growth.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- I love to cook.
- I enjoy being outside whether I am exercising, sitting on my front porch, or reading by the pool.
- I love being with my family any chance I get!
Angelea Busby
Full Name: Angelea R. Busby
Education/Professional Certifications:
- Master of Business Administration, Baker University
- Bachelor of Science in Journalism
focus on Public Relations and Marketing, University of Kansas
Company: Charron Consulting, Dulles, Virginia
Title: Director of Business Development
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Co-Chair for the NAIOP Northern Virginia Developing Leaders committee
- 2011 NAIOP Northern Virginia Developing Leaders Mentorship Program participant
- 2009 NAIOP Northern Virginia Awards Committee
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 2.5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 2.5 years
What are your current responsibilities and background? Angelea Busby is the Director of Business Development for Charron Consulting, a construction project management and consulting firm located in Dulles, VA. Angelea is responsible for managing all business development activities, including market analysis, and marketing materials and proposal development, GSA Supply Schedule maintenance, and brand identity programs. One of Angeleaís significant projects with Charron Consulting was directing the challenging process of submitting, and acquiring a GSA Contract Schedule listing. Her meticulous organizational skills and tenacity was rewarded after only 10 months when Charron was awarded a Federal Supply Schedule Contract in February 2010.
Prior to joining Charron Consulting, Angelea served as an International Spokesperson and Director of Marketing for VitaCraft Corporation, a high-end cookware company. Angelea traveled routinely to Japan and Germany marketing a new cooking technology, working closely with companies such as Panasonic and Miele. During her tenure, she also opened the companiesí first U.S. retail store and showroom.
What is your ultimate career goal? To continue working in the world of Business Development and Marketing for the Real Estate Community.
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Whereís Your Wow? by Robyn Freedman Spizman and Rick Frishman
- The Customer Rules: The 14 Indispensable, Irrefutable, and Indisputable Qualities of the Greatest Service Companies in the World by C. Britt Beemer and Robert L. Shook
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career? First impressions are everything.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Actively participate in Washington-area political and philanthropic organizations
- Serve as a national volunteer for the Miss America Organization
- Serve as a requested speaker for issues regarding mental illness
Avi Fisher
Full Name: Avi M. Fisher
Education/Professional Certifications:
- Masters of Real Estate Development , George Mason University, May 2012
- LEED Green Associate
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, George Mason University
Company: Cassidy Turley
Title: Senior Associate
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Co-Chair for the NAIOP Northern Virginia Developing Leaders committee
- NAIOP Bus Tour Captain 2008, 2010, 2011
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 4 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 1 Ω years
What are your current responsibilities and background? I joined Cassidy Turleyís Tysonís Corner, Virginia office in 2008 as an Associate. I was promoted to Senior Associate in 2010. Areas of specialization include investment sales, landlord representation - office services, and tenant representation - office services.
Prior to joining Cassidy Turleyís leasing team, I worked as a marketing research analyst supporting the leasing, tenant and investment teams where I was an integral part of helping each team successfully maintain existing accounts and business development.
What is your ultimate career goal? To become the 'go to' inside the beltway landlord representation broker, and to achieve this status by the age of 35. It is also important to me be a mentor to those trying to break into/new to the business. I consider myself very fortunate to have several supportive mentors.
What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate? I realized the importance of job satisfaction at a young age. We spend more time at the office than we do with our families and friends combined. Therefore, I wanted to develop a career in a business where I could be social, meet great people, and feel like Iím making a difference to someone. When I complete a lease with a small company and watch them grow to be a larger company, there is no better satisfaction then knowing that you helped strategize/position that company to be successful.
What's your favorite building or development project?
- Reston Town Center (existing office)
- Tysons Metro Center (office redevelopment)
Name three books that have made a difference in your life.
- Remembering Blue by Connie May Fowler
- Donít Sweat the Small StuffÖand its all small stuff by Richard Carlson
- The Power of NOW: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career? Maintain your honesty, integrity, and work hard and you will be successful at the task at hand.
How has being a member of NAIOP helped your career? By providing me with networking, educational & leadership opportunities.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Time with friends/family
- Spend time outdoors
- Live music
Jimmy Roembke
Full Name: James (Jimmy) Roembke
Education/Professional Certifications:
- Johns Hopkins University, Master of Science
- Pennsylvania State University, Bachelor of Science
Company: Buchanan Partners
Title: Project Manager
NAIOP involvement and awards won:
- Co-Chair of the NAIOP Northern Virginia Developing Leaders Committee
- 2011 NAIOP Northern Virginia Developing Leaders Mentorship Program participant
How many years have you been in commercial real estate? 5 years
How long have you been a member of NAIOP? 3 years
What are your current responsibilities and background? As Project Manager at Buchanan Partners, I oversee the overall development process for a wide range of development projects including mixed-use, commercial, industrial and residential properties. I am responsible for acquisition analysis, due diligence, financial analysis, lender and equity partner relationships, and oversight of leasing, sales, design and construction. My primary responsibility is to achieve successful real estate development projects from concept through completion and ownership.
What is your ultimate career goal? I would like to continue to work for, and ultimately run, a successful development company working on exciting development projects in the Metropolitan DC market.
What's your favorite building or development project?
The City Center project on the old convention center site has been interesting to follow. I also think Reston Town Center is a great example of a successful suburban mixed-use development.
Name three books that every executive should read.
- Outliers, Tipping Point, etc. by Malcolm Gladwell
- Good to Great by Jim Collins
- The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
What is the biggest lesson you've learned thus far in your career? Although there have been a lot of lessons learned, I think learning how to manage priorities has been essential.
How has being a member of NAIOP helped your career? The greatest benefit has been getting to know others in the industry. As a young professional in the real estate industry it is very important to build a network of people that you can work with, bounce ideas off of, etc.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
- Spend time with friends and family
- Spend time outside (biking, hiking, etc.)
- Read