What is it like to run a city? Raul Allueva knows – he has to make sure that the city stays functional, whether it be fire departments, parks, safety, public works, permitting, and more. How did he get so far? To him, the answer is ironic – “don’t look too far ahead.” Focusing on the task at hand is the key, as well as being personable and learning to support others.

Aubrey Kelly knows there are so many things that you can’t control – but you can set the direction that you’re heading. That is the philosophy he has used for his role as CEO of UBC Properties Trust, which handles real estate portfolios of the University of British Columbia. You don’t have to be an expert – you simply have to figure out where you’re headed and have others around you buy into your plan.

David Hutniak leads Landlord BC, which is an industry association that represents owners and managers of rental housing in British Columbia. His organization represents landlords across BC and balances the interests of landlords and tenants.

Heading up a real estate association is not a job you can go to school to learn. That’s because it's a rare position and schools can’t prepare you for this type of position. The job is part visionary, leader, guiding hand, advocate and so much more.

Volodya Gusak co-founded DENCITI Development Corporation in 2018. The Vancouver-based real estate development company creates urban, industrial, commercial, and residential developments.

There are specialties in the real estate sector that are vitally important that virtually no one hears about unless you are deep into the business. Industrial lands are one such area and they require talent with extremely specific needs. Eric Aderneck’s career opened up a world of possibilities in the development of properties that meet the needs of light industrial businesses.