6th Annual Industrial Real Estate

Robert Clay co-founded Clay Development & Construction, Inc. in 1998 with his dad, Al Clay. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree from Texas A&M University before joining United Equities where he focused on construction supervision, property management, and leasing. After four years at United Equities, he joined Moody Rambin Interests, Inc., where his attentions were directed to project leasing and construction supervision. At Clay Development, Robert manages day-to-day decisions and oversees all development, construction, and acquisition strategies.

Jason M. Cooper is president of Arch-Con and is responsible for the day-to-day management decisions for the company including operations and risk management. Prior to serving as president, Cooper spent six years as senior vice president of Arch-Con’s Office and Industrial Divisions and helped develop Arch-Con’s safety program. With more than 20 years in the construction industry, Cooper works closely with Chief Executive Officer Michael G. Scheurich to implement Scheurich’s vision for the company. Cooper has strategically led Arch-Con’s expansion efforts in Dallas, the company’s first office location outside of Houston. He is a champion for individual employees to find their career path, is spearheading Arch-Con’s digital transformation and is recently realized a comprehensive training program for employees. Former president of Association of Commercial Real Estate Professional (ACRP) during the organization’s 20th anniversary, Cooper holds a bachelor’s degree in Construction Science from Texas A&M University and is recognized as LEED AP.

Michael Preiss, P.E. established the Houston office of Pape-Dawson Engineers and has driven its growth. A managing principal of one of Texas’ largest civil engineering firms, Michael’s experience and influence spans the Houston region where he leads transformational infrastructure projects, working with local agencies, such as Harris County, Harris County Flood Control District, the City of Houston, and the Texas Department of Transportation. Serving the commercial real estate industry for 23 years, he has overseen surveying and civil site design of numerous Houston multi-family projects, including Barvin’s Blackwell Med Center, Allen Harrison’s Boone Manor, Bridgewood’s Village of Southampton, and Aspen Heights Houston. Michael earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Texas Tech University and remains active with his alma mater as a member of the Dean’s Council. He volunteers his time and expertise to many industry organizations, including the Urban Land Institute and American Council of Engineering Companies, and has served as Board President for the Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District 159 since 2004.

David M. Ambrose is the president of The Ambrose Appraisal Company which has offices in Houston and Dallas, Texas. Mr. Ambrose received the MAI designation in 3 years from entering the profession. He holds a MBA Degree from Baylor University and is an approved instructor for the International Right-of-Way Association. Mr. Ambrose's experience includes the valuation of all types of commercial and residential properties. He has testified as an expert witness regarding property value on numerous occasions in various courts of law.