2026 Women in CRE: Carla Cabral, Mass. Housing Partnership (MHP)

What has helped shape the way you approach your work and career?
My career was shaped mostly by an unexpected start in public housing, where I built on my language and customer service skills and developed broad industry expertise. Public service led to understanding housing programs while recognizing affordable housing’s socioeconomic impact and needs. Continued education deepened my commitment to compliance, while portfolio management strengthened my analytical skills and owner-agent relationships. Over the 13 years at MHP, I am most rewarded for helping advance our mission of increasing production, expand access to, and promote housing equity statewide.