Real Estate Management is where I started my real estate career many years ago. I worked for a family-owned business and under the guidance of the Owner/Mortgage Broker. At that time, there wasn’t much encouragement to develop by way of continuing education. The company had a portfolio of rental houses, commercial properties, and apartments around the city, including multiple buildings of student housing near San Diego State University. I learned so much in those seven years. The working experience and knowledge I absorbed offered me different opportunities to explore for my continued career in real estate.
Did you know that IREM® has been in existence for 90 years? IREM® has been an “International institute for property and asset managers, providing knowledge to take on real estate management’s most dynamic challenges. That means knowledge prepared for the day-to-day and the one-of-a-kind; from solving the latest tenant crisis to analyzing market conditions.” IREM® offers certifications to becoming a CPM® – Certified Property Manager, ARM® – Accredited Residential Manager, AcoM® – Accredited Commercial Manager, AMO® – Accredited Management Organization, and IREM® Certified Sustainable Property. These are considered “symbols of ethical leadership and a well-managed property worldwide.” Earn the accreditation of your choice and membership is included; you become a member of the organization and as part of their networking support you continuously learn and share with peers, partners, and fellow organizations.
“Hawkins is a national leader in real estate development and property management. With decades of experience in multifamily, retail, charter schools, hospitality and self-storage, Hawkins has been synonymous with outstanding development for nearly 50 years. When you do the right thing, you achieve the right outcomes, which is why we prioritize Return on Integrity in all of our projects, partnerships and communities.”
Since Hawkins oversees and manages their own company portfolio of properties and projects, I spoke with a few of my co-workers to gain a better understanding of IREM® and to learn more about the value they bring to this industry:
Mindy Gronbeck, Executive Vice President of Property Operations joined IREM® Board of Directors in 2018. Before joining the Board of Directors, Mindy volunteered at the Chapter and Regional levels and was Chair of the Legislative and Public Policy Committee. She is even an Instructor for IREM®! In collaboration with her fellow board members, Mindy’s responsibilities include “overseeing and providing guidance for the institute’s governance and operations, as well as fostering a strong working relationship with the IREM® headquarters staff.” Mindy has been nominated as the International Secretary/Treasurer for IREM® in 2024 and will serve as the Global President in 2026. Isn’t that inspiring?
Shayna Cox, Director of Property Management utilizes IREM®’s online workshops for continuing education, to learn what other property managers are doing, and to know the collaboration of various services are obtainable anywhere. When I asked Shayna if she would elaborate or provide an example on the collaboration, she said, “if you are traveling to another state and you need a vendor, you can contact IREM® and get a complete list for the area, and you will have confidence that the information came from reputable property managers.” That’s impressive. Thanks for sharing that, Shayna.
Jeff Sudmeier, Property Manager, CPM, ARM is the current Chapter President for IREM® Idaho Chapter. IREM®’s education piece “has always been part of my journey.” Jeff’s early career in property management required him to obtain the ARM® designation which later fueled his leadership passion and continued down the path to earn his CPM® designation, both valuable credentials in the industry of property management. Jeff citing, “my personal reasons and career options to serve on the board with IREM® were embraced by Hawkins.” Jeff further explains to be able to get out of Boise, to travel to IREM® events and to see IREM® for what they truly stand for, ethics, is everything. To be a CPM® in Idaho subscribes you to a code of ethics (there are three components: pledge, work education, and the experience component). Jeff said when he became the Chapter President here in Idaho, it may have been about him at first, but it’s now turned into “leading for legacy.” He added the chapter is stronger, it’s because of the involvement in the community and charitable organizations, such as CATCH Idaho. CATCH Idaho exists because everyone needs a home. Lastly, Jeff feels the leadership decisions he has made “benefit everyone else, will keep you going, and you have the satisfaction of knowing you’ve done it.” Congratulations Jeff! Sounds like you have many building blocks in place.
Julie Tollifson, Property Manager, RPM, CPM, she “values the continuing education with IREM®” along with her “on the job experience.” Julie said she had no commercial experience and decided to jump in and get her CPM® designation. Julie also shared that she enjoys networking as well because it allows her to bounce ideas off others and find help from others with the same issues. Networking at the Global Summit this past year allowed her to connect with others and build relationships. The tenacity, dedication and determination Julie has shown, has made her one of the 2023 30 Under 30 Award Recipients from IREM®. The contribution to the profession Julie has demonstrated through her career success are her professional leadership skills and community involvement. A huge accomplishment and one Julie is proud of. Outstanding Julie and continued success!
If I had known about IREM® all those years ago, I may have had a different career than the one I have today. Hawkins has given me the opportunity to be their insurance coordinator. It is a role that plays a critical part in safeguarding the interests of all parties involved in each transaction. I have been able to apply those early real estate management skills, and I expect to continue for many years to come.