2026 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Christopher Edge, Town of Berlin

What inspired you to pursue a career in commercial real estate, and what path brought you to your current role? My inspiration was a long-time broker in Connecticut by the name of Bernard Mussman. Bernie, as most people knew him, did everything out of the truck of his old Jaguar. He taught me a lot about people, negotiation, patience and more. After learning from Bernie, I did work in the for profit, non-profit sectors, and now in the public sector as the Economic Development Director for the Town of Berlin, where I have been for 11 years.

What accomplishment or project so far in your career are you most proud of? 

The biggest accomplishment was working with Newport Realty Group (Mark Lovley/Tony Valenti) to help them to develop the $18 million + mixed-use development which is next to the Berlin Train Station. The property, formerly owned by the Town of Berlin, is a brownfield, and with efforts from many individuals from the state level to Berlin Town Hall worked very hard to make it a reality. That development began the process of remaking Farmington Avenue in Berlin which is now home to over 25 restaurants and Coles Road Brewing.

Who has been a mentor or influential figure in your career, and what is the most valuable advice they have shared with you?

The biggest mentor was Bill Millerick who was head of the Greater New Britain Chamber, whom I worked for when I was the Business Development Coordinator in New Britain under Mayor Lucian Pawlak. He taught me the importance of getting to know people, learning about them, and always being friendly to everyone. He was a former newspaper publisher and was a great person who influenced many during his life.

What trends or opportunities do you see shaping the future of commercial real estate?

With the recent legislation from Hartford in late 2025, I see mixed-use being the trend that will be the driving force in commercial real estate in Connecticut for years to come. As the regional Councils of Government are now working with towns on housing, creativity will be key to increase housing in Connecticut with mixed-use being a way for suburban and smaller towns to bring in housing, but also commercial for new residents and residents who have called that community home for many years.