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November 4, 2025 In Luncheon Summary

November 2025 Luncheon:  “Beyond Automation: Leadership, Protection, and Creation in the Age of AI”

Submitted by Stephanie Jenson, JLL

CREW Charlotte’s AI Program Delivers Strategic Insights for CRE Professionals

The recent CREW AI program successfully explored AI’s transformative impact on commercial real estate. Moderated by Courtney Fain (JLL), panelists consisted of industry experts Jaime Dias (First American), Garrett Herbst (Little Diversified), and Pad Alce (AI Patent Law). They covered essential topics including AI implementation strategies, prompt engineering, and collaborative applications in project management and operations.

Key discussions addressed balancing innovation with responsibility, emphasizing risk management, data security, and ethical AI adoption. Participants gained practical knowledge on leveraging AI as a collaborative tool while maintaining transparency and accountability.

Key Takeaways:

  • Approach AI as a collaborator, not just an input/output tool for building context and brainstorming
  • Don’t fear committing resources to AI while remaining cognizant of third-party tools
  • Focus on change management and strategic implementation
  • AI’s future lies in amplifying human capabilities rather than replacing professionals

Thank you to our exceptional panelists for sharing invaluable insights on AI’s transformative impact across industries. Your expertise helped us navigate beyond automation to discover leadership opportunities in our evolving landscape.

To further your understanding and boost your AI collaboration, check out our Helpful Tools and Resources list.

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October 31, 2025 In Job Posts

Project Architect, Healthcare – Progressive Companies

As a Project Architect II, you will lead the technical design and documentation of large, complex projects that shape communities and elevate environments. You’ll provide architectural consultation and apply advanced design thinking to deliver sustainable, code-compliant, and client-centered solutions. You’ll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless project execution while mentoring junior staff and contributing to a culture of excellence.

This position is in the Charlotte, NC office.

Deliver Results
Develop architectural models, contract documents, and specifications for small-to-moderate complexity projects, integrating codes, sustainability principles, and material standards.
Ensure the design intent and Performance-Based Design processes are upheld throughout project documentation.
Lead coordination of project specifications with architectural drawings to ensure integration across all deliverables.
Apply proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD to produce precise documentation aligned with project goals.
Manage due diligence tasks, including documentation of existing conditions, plan review submissions, and organized file systems.
Coordinate technical design with internal teams, consultants, and engineers, promoting alignment across disciplines.
Communicate proactively with project teams regarding progress, technical requirements, and design changes, escalating scope changes as needed.
Contribute to project fee and scheduling discussions with informed input and strategic awareness.
Lead reviews of submittals, drawings, and estimates for accuracy and compliance with project scope and standards.
Resolve construction issues during site visits, including unforeseen conditions and code compliance challenges.
Mentor junior staff and participate in professional development activities such as “Lessons Learned” sessions.

Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Architecture required; Master’s degree preferred.
Completion of AXP and licensure through Architectural Registration Exams (ARE) required.
NCARB certification preferred.
AIA membership and CSI-CDT certification preferred; training provided.
LEED AP BD+C certification preferred.
5+ years as a licensed architect or 10 years of post-graduate architectural experience.
Strong proficiency in Revit and/or AutoCAD.
Demonstrated understanding of building codes, architectural detailing, and multi-phase project documentation.

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October 31, 2025 In Job Posts

Project Manager, Healthcare – Progressive Companies

As a Healthcare Project Manager II, you will be influential in developing the continuing and rapid growth of our Healthcare Practice. You are a relationship builder who takes ownership for the success of the practice by utilizing strong communication skills when interacting with internal and external partners, as well as our clients. This position provides the opportunity to manage projects with a wide range of scope and complexity across the healthcare field.

This position is in the Charlotte, NC or Durham, NC offices.

Deliver Results
Establish project delivery teams, coordinating in-house and consultant services. Create and edit contract for consultant services.
Own the project scope, schedule, and budget, and mentor others in schedule and budget creation.
Advise the client in their best interest and maintain positive relationships. Actively balance client, contractor, and Progressive Companies success.
Actively lead new business development and participate in cross team marketing and selling. Follow up on leads, lead interviews, and take the lead in proposals and contract negotiations.
Own the project profit goals, including planning, monitoring, and controlling technical costs and scheduled performance. Review, monitor, and update project financial reports in a timely manner, managing report formats and information.

Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in an area of expertise (architecture or engineering preferred).
Professional registration in your field.
10 years of professional experience with healthcare building design.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).

Preferred Qualifications
Master’s Degree in area of expertise, business administration, or project management.
CSI-CDT certification.
Certification through PSMJ/PMI.
Experience with project management and scheduling tools (Microsoft Project, or similar).
Experience with Excel DB and Power BI.

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October 14, 2025 In Luncheon Summary

October 2025 Luncheon: “Game Changers: Female Leaders Shaping the Sports Industry”

Submitted by John Garner, Charlotte Regional Business Alliance

 

At CREW Charlotte’s October Luncheon, attendees heard from Caroline Wright, Chief Venues Officer for Tepper Sports & Entertainment, and Donna Julian, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Spectrum Center, for an engaging discussion on Charlotte’s sports, real estate, and community ecosystem.

 

Caroline detailed Bank of America Stadium’s $800 million renovation, emphasizing Tepper Sports & Entertainment’s ownership structure and partnership with the City, while Donna shared insights on the $245 million transformation of Spectrum Center, a City-owned facility operated by the Hornets. Both leaders highlighted how tourism and hospitality tax dollars are reinvested locally through these projects, fueling Charlotte’s economic growth.

 

Caroline noted that Bank of America Stadium generates $1.1 billion annually for the local economy and supports more than 1,000 construction workers during renovations, while Donna described Spectrum Center as a year-round hub for NBA games, concerts, and community events. Both underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in maintaining world-class venues and positioning Charlotte as a national destination.

 

Beyond the numbers, Caroline and Donna reflected on leadership, teamwork, and giving back. Caroline highlighted the David and Nicole Tepper Foundation’s $10 million donation to food banks across the Carolinas, and Donna discussed her community involvement through Big Brothers Big Sisters and Blumenthal Performing Arts. Together, they showcased how visionary leadership and collaboration continue to shape Charlotte’s skyline, economy, and spirit.

 

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August 12, 2025 In Luncheon Summary

August 2025 Luncheon: “The New Labor Landscape: How Workforce Dynamics are Reshaping the Market” with Laura Ullrich, Director, Economic Research at Indeed

Submitted by Stephanie Jenson, JLL

 

Dr. Laura Dawson Ullrich from Indeed Hiring Lab delivered eye-opening workforce insights at CREW Charlotte’s August luncheon, revealing how labor dynamics are reshaping commercial real estate markets.

 

The Current Reality The job market is cooling but stable and companies keep hiring, openings remain elevated, and layoffs stay low. Yet uncertainty looms large, with recession odds swinging from 22% in January to 45% by April 2025.

 

What’s at Stake for CRE Tax cuts and deregulation could fuel economic growth, boosting tenant expansion and space demand. However, tariff volatility and immigration restrictions threaten to slow business growth, shrinking your tenant pool and limiting space utilization.

 

Your Action Plan Smart CRE professionals must track tenant hiring trends, brace for persistent remote work impacts on office demand, and craft flexible leasing strategies. The Fed’s balancing act between inflation control and economic stability will directly impact occupancy rates and investment decisions. Understanding workforce shifts isn’t optional, it’s your competitive edge.

 

In this dynamic landscape, visionary CRE professionals who embrace workforce trends as growth catalysts will not just survive, they’ll thrive and lead the industry forward.

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June 10, 2025 In Luncheon Summary

June 2025 Luncheon: “Soaring to New Heights: American Airlines Real Esate Leaders Driving CLT’s Aviation Powerhouse into the Future”

Submitted by Stephanie Jenson, JLL and Amy Jones, HDR

The CREW Charlotte June luncheon featured American Airlines’ Airport & Government Affairs and Corporate Real Estate teammates Tracy Montross, Amanda Zhang, and Reshma Soni. American Airlines, the 5th largest employer in Mecklenburg County, continues to demonstrate substantial economic influence in the region. The panel discussion included cost comparisons across major US airports, positioning CLT favorably among peers like LAX, SFO, and ATL.

 

Recent and upcoming facility developments showcase American Airlines’ commitment to Charlotte:

  • American Regional Training Center – Opened March 2024
  • PSA Back-Up Operations Control Center & Transition Headquarters – Opened September 2024
  • PSA New Headquarters – Coming January 2026

 

The team emphasized the importance of efficient flight operations and facility modernization to enhance passenger experiences “from curb to gate.” American Airlines maintains strong development momentum at CLT, focusing on long-term growth strategies despite industry challenges.

 

For CRE professionals, these projects represent significant opportunities, signaling stable anchor tenancy from a major employer and driving demand for adjacent real estate development along transportation corridors serving these facilities. The airport continues to generate substantial revenue for North Carolina while creating commercial real estate opportunities throughout the Charlotte region.

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May 13, 2025 In Luncheon Summary

CREW Charlotte’s 2025 Signature Luncheon “Leadership Lessons from Captain Sandy of Bravo’s Below Deck: Navigating Troubled Waters in Changing Times”

Submitted by Amy Jones, HDR

 

Captain Sandy, from Below Deck, shared her inspiring journey and leadership insights with CREW Charlotte at our Annual Signature Luncheon. As a woman in a male-dominated field, Captain Sandy discussed the challenges she faced and emphasized the importance of women pursuing their career goals while balancing family commitments. She highlighted the significance of women supporting each other in the workplace, citing her own experience of working with a female broker for her commercial real estate property.

 

During the event, Captain Sandy recounted her experience of working on a yacht for the wealthiest man in Dubai, where she was chosen for her expertise and knowledge rather than her gender. She emphasized the importance of acquiring skills and demonstrating competence, regardless of gender. Captain Sandy encouraged the women juggling motherhood and growing careers that they are a super-power, drawing from her own journey of starting from washing boats and learning from a mentor to now being a house-hold name with countless opportunities beyond her fame on Below Deck, including owning her own commercial real estate property, authoring a book, and speaking engagements around the world.

 

Captain Sandy shared her personal principles for success, including self-awareness, self-control, self-confidence, and resilience. She highlighted the importance of self-discipline and emotional intelligence in leadership and stressed the value of building relationships with team members. She emphasized the significance of music in her daily routine, using it as a tool for self-leadership and mental preparation before facing challenging situations.

 

In closing, Captain Sandy emphasized the importance of creating a positive work environment where people feel valued and respected. She encouraged leaders to prioritize communication and empathy, and to lead by example. Captain Sandy’s message resonated with the audience, inspiring them to approach their work with passion, resilience, and a commitment to personal growth.

 

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April 2, 2025 In Announcements & News

Held Architecture: A New Practice Rooted in Sustainable and Regenerative Design

Held Architecture launches with a clear purpose: to create architecture that is deeply connected to its environment and the people who inhabit it. Led by Kristina Held, a longtime advocate for high-performance, sustainable design, the firm brings a thoughtful, integrated approach to architecture—one that balances beauty, function, and environmental responsibility.

With over two decades of experience shaping the Charlotte-Mecklenburg built environment, Held has led numerous LEED and Passive House-certified projects. As Charlotte’s first Certified Passive House Consultant (2019), her expertise in energy efficiency, material health, and environmental integration has helped set new benchmarks for sustainability in the region.

“Architecture isn’t just about buildings—it’s about shaping places that support people and communities for generations,” says Kristina Held, Founder and President of Held Architecture. “At Held Architecture, we design spaces that feel intuitive, enduring, and responsive to their context—whether that’s a dense urban site, a commercial workplace, or a regenerative landscape.”

A Framework for Sustainable Design

Held Architecture’s approach is guided by five key principles:
– Beauty – Thoughtful, well-proportioned spaces that uplift the human experience.
– Place – Design that respects and responds to its surroundings, both natural and urban.
– Water & Energy – Efficient, responsible use of resources to minimize impact.
– Community – Creating spaces that foster interaction, inclusivity, and connection.
– Health & Well-being – Prioritizing non-toxic materials and indoor environmental quality.

A Track Record of Impactful Work

Held Architecture’s portfolio includes projects that demonstrate the firm’s commitment to sustainability and regenerative design, including:
– The Cannery – A mixed-use development designed with long-term sustainability in mind.
– Headquarters for Pester Pac USA – A high-performance corporate workplace integrating Passive House principles.
– Charlotte’s First Pre-Certified Passive House – A milestone project that advances regional energy efficiency standards.

As Held Architecture embarks on this next chapter, the firm remains focused on designing spaces that serve both people and the planet—spaces that endure, adapt, and inspire.

For more information, visit www.heldarch.com.

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March 11, 2025 In Luncheon Summary

March 2025 Luncheon with Mecklenburg County Manager Dena Diorio

Submitted by Dianne Jones, JLL

 

At CREW Charlotte’s March Luncheon, Dena Diorio, the first woman to serve as Mecklenburg County Manager, shared her journey and insights and it happened to be Women’s History Month! Reflecting on her 18-year career here in the Queen City, Dena described her path from Chief Financial Officer to County Manager, overcoming odds to secure the position despite initial preference for external candidates.

As County Manager, she focused on improving communication, transparency, and accountability while restoring public trust. Dena highlighted Mecklenburg County’s growth, now home to 1.2 million residents with a $2.5 billion budget. She recounted major challenges faced during her tenure, including the 2008 financial crisis, a 2017 ransomware attack, and the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the county’s resilience and adaptability. Among her proudest achievements, Dena cited the implementation of the Meck 3-k program for early childhood education and the strategic use of ARP funds to support community initiatives.

As she approaches retirement in June, she stressed the importance of addressing economic challenges and poverty, particularly among women. She offered leadership advice, emphasizing the value of surrounding oneself with a diverse, invested team and maintaining authenticity while learning from admired leaders. Dena Diorio’s legacy will endure in Charlotte through her unwavering commitment to community well-being and equity throughout her impactful career.

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February 11, 2025 In Luncheon Summary

February 2025 Luncheon: “Shaping Charlotte’s Future: Economic Growth, Industrial Trends & the Riverbend Preserve Project”

Submitted by Keiko Pace, Stephens Office Systems

 

At CREW Charlotte’s February Luncheon, industry experts Cliff Brumfield (Lincoln County Economic Development Association), Gretchen Carson (Charlotte Regional Business Alliance), and Natalie Ceva (JLL) discussed Charlotte’s booming economy, industrial real estate trends, and the transformative Riverbend project.

Charlotte remains one of the nation’s fastest-growing metro areas, bolstered by its business-friendly environment, extensive connectivity, and top-tier research institutions. With one of the world’s busiest airports and some of the lowest corporate tax burdens in the Southeast, the region continues to attract companies and talent.

Charlotte’s industrial real estate sector remains strong, with a 7.7% vacancy rate and an 82% increase in rental rates since 2018. Currently, over 5.6 million square feet of industrial space is under construction, contributing to a market that has grown by 30% since 2010 as manufacturing companies increasingly choose the Carolinas.

A highlight of the discussion was the Riverbend Preserve, a decade-long public-private collaboration set to bring 800+ homes, millions of square feet of industrial and office space, and a shared tax base between Gaston and Lincoln counties. This development aims to balance residential expansion with industrial growth, ensuring sustainable economic development for the region.

 

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