Spotlights

2022 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Krista Manna, KR Architecture & Interiors

What has been your biggest challenge and how have you faced it? My biggest challenge was “making the leap” and going out on my own. I enjoyed the work I did for other firms, but found that none offered the flexibility in schedule that my circumstances needed.

2022 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Nicole DeBenedictis, Reycon

What advice would you offer to women getting into the CRE industry? People and communication are at the core of developing spatial experiences to support how people live, work, interact, and access resources. My career started in A/E design

2022 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Amy Margolis, Bergmeyer

In the past year, what project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? In September 2021, we kicked off a two-year-long hospitality project in Nantucket. Working closely with our client and operator

2022 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Maureen Rystrom, J. Calnan & Associates

Are you part of any CRE organizations? How have they helped your professional development? I have the distinct honor and privilege of serving as president of the New England Chapter of CoreNet Global.

2022 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Molly Gates, J. Calnan & Associates

What tips or advice would you offer to other women who are considering entering the construction industry? The best tool in your bag is confidence. Be confident in yourself, in your decisions, and in your ability to do the best job possible. If you believe in yourself, others around you will pick up on that attitude and mirror

2022 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Samantha Shedlock, J. Calnan & Associates

In the past year, what project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? JC&A was recently ranked #1 for employee volunteer hours at the BBJ’s Top Corporate Philanthropy event, and I am extremely proud of that achievement!

2022 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Lindsay Bajda, Dakota Partners

What advice would you offer to women getting into the CRE industry? There is tremendous opportunity in this industry regardless of your background. If you work hard, are willing to learn, and produce results, you will achieve success and continue

2022 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Catherine West, 43 West Properties

What advice would you offer to women getting into the CRE industry? I would encourage women to have confidence, ask questions, and not be afraid to act. Real estate is a team sport and by connecting with like-minded

2022 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Randy Kaston, Ligris + Associates

What trends will dominate your industry in the coming months? According to the real estate research firm CoStar Group, nationally, rental costs climbed a record 11.3% last year. We can predict that commercial rents will continue to go up

2022 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Michele Maresca, Robinson & Cole LLP

What advice would you offer to women getting into the CRE industry? Commercial real estate is jargon rich and moves fast. Amid the jargon and fast-pace, don’t be afraid to be the one to ask the tough (and the seemingly obvious) questions that compel the parties to work