Asset Class Insights

Updates and Trends in Austin's Most Impactful Industries

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  Megan Lasch

  Megan Lasch serves as Owner and President of O-SDA Industries, LLC where she brings more than 12 years of experience in project management and consulting to the affordable housing industry, managing all aspects of a project life cycle. Ms. Lasch received her Bachelor’s degree in Biosystems Engineering from Oklahoma State University. She began her career as an Engineering Consultant, where she helped design a variety of public and private development projects. She is a member of the Real Estate Council of Austin and has served as the Board Chair for Skillpoint Alliance, a non-profit providing technology-based workforce training. Ms. Lasch was also recognized as a finalist in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction category of the 2018 and 2019 Austin Under 40 Awards, which celebrates Austin’s most accomplished and influential emerging professionals who are making an impact in the community.

  O-SDA Industries

  President

  Megan Lasch

  President

  O-SDA Industries

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  Andrew Alvarado

  Andrew Alvarado is an Assistant Vice President with the Austin office of Weitzman. In this position, he handles office tenant representation, office project representation, site selection and analysis and general brokerage. Prior to joining Weitzman, his commercial real estate experience includes work as an associate and in and in asset management with Austin‐based Preston Properties, a commercial real estate firm.

  Weitzman

  AVP

  Andrew Alvarado

  AVP

  Weitzman

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  Donald McGraw

  Don McGraw serves as the Chief Investment Officer of Elysian, In his role, Don oversees all aspects of investor relations and capital raising, leveraging over two decades of experience in financial services and commercial real estate to fuel Elysian's growth and success. Don's career has been marked by an unwavering dedication to raising capital and investing in commercial real estate, as well as other alternative assets. Since 2005, he has built a reputation for identifying lucrative opportunities, cultivating relationships with investors, and delivering exceptional returns. Don's ability to navigate the complexities of the real estate market has been instrumental in securing substantial growth for his clients. His thought leadership on debt crowdfunding and self-directed retirement investing has been highlighted by prestigious publications, including the Wall Street Journal, Savannah Morning News, The Houston Business Journal, and Realtor.com. Beyond the office, Don is formally the Head Lacrosse Coach at Oxford University in the United Kingdom and is currently the Director of Girls Lacrosse at Dripping Springs High School outside of Austin.

  Elysian Real Estate Group

  Chief Investment Officer

  Donald McGraw

  Chief Investment Officer

  Elysian Real Estate Group

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  Chi Lee

  At an early age, Chi knew he wanted to be an architect and his passion for the industry grew when he moved to New York City for college. A couple of years after graduating, he moved to Austin where he has spent the majority of his career. Chi is a trusted advisor, steward and friend to his clients. He is an excellent Project manager and makes it his priority to achieve the client’s goals and vision while monitoring and maintaining project schedules and budgets. As the Austin Office Leader, Chi also prides himself on mentorship, hoping to cultivate a studio of creative and passionate designers. Furthermore, Chi takes great pride living in Austin and is dedicated to influencing and transforming the city he calls home.

  HKS

  Principal

  Chi Lee

  Principal

  HKS

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  Kevin Norman

  Since joining DES over 35 years ago, Kevin has focused on technically challenging, cutting-edge life science laboratories, workspaces, and campuses. A natural problem-solver, he leads by example and takes a hands-on, active role in project work, yet prioritizes an open mind and listening to others before taking action. These qualities make him an excellent team builder and serve him well as DES Life Science Sector Leader. Kevin finds inspiration in supporting groundbreaking scientific research at any scale. Beyond his professional contribution to building communities, Kevin is actively involved in several organizations shaping a better future for all. He is Past President of the local American Institute of Architects (AIA) and Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) chapters, is an Executive Board member of the San Leandro Improvement Association (SLIA), participates in the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, and currently serves on the board of the San Francisco/Bay Area Chapter of the International Society of Pharmaceutical Engineers (ISPE). Kevin's multifaceted contributions to the architecture and life sciences industries and his dedication to community engagement reflect his unwavering commitment to driving positive change and fostering innovation in the built environment.

  DES Architects

  Managing Principal

  Kevin Norman

  Managing Principal

  DES Architects

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  Cody Bailey

  Cody joined the Gordon Highlander team with more than 25 years of industry experience. This experience has brought confidence and trust with new clients as he stepped into the role of Vice President for the new Central Texas office in Austin. He has built both a cohesive team and the Gordon Highlander reputation in this expanded market. In addition to his extensive professional experience, Cody holds a master’s degree in industrial Distribution from Texas A&M University. His use of industry experience and knowledge has been instrumental in growing the Central Texas market for Gordon Highlander

  Gordon Highlander

  SVP

  Moderator

  Cody Bailey

  SVP

  Gordon Highlander

Beyond Austin City Limits

Emerging Submarkets Outside the Urban Core

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  Rob Shands

  Rob Shands is a Partner with RedLeaf, where he is primarily focused on capital markets, financing activities, acquisitions, vertical development, and strategic partnerships. Previously, Shands held the following positions: Partner and Director of Investment for Live Oak-Gottesman, a full service commercial real estate firm based in Austin. Shands was responsible for operations and execution of investment activities. He served as a member of the management team and investment committee. While at Live Oak, Shands established and executed a thesis based acquisition strategy focused on class B office properties in San Antonio. He played an integral role in the development and acquisition of over 650,000 SF of office and retail product in Austin and San Antonio. Acting through a strategic partnership, Shands helped start a standalone self-storage development platform, which successfully developed a portfolio of class A storage projects in Central Texas. Shands began his career at Frost Bank in the Real Estate group where he managed a loan portfolio consisting of retail, office, industrial, multi-family, land and self-storage.

  RedLeaf Properties

  Partner

  Rob Shands

  Partner

  RedLeaf Properties

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  Arthur Jackson

  Arthur Jackson is the Director of Economic Development for the Austin Chamber of Commerce, which represents the five county Greater Austin, Texas region. Home to over 2.1 million residents, the Austin metro is one of the fastest growing and most economically diverse regions in the nation. Ranking on almost every "best places" lists, the region's progressive culture, low cost of living, and access to a highly skilled and talented workforce has positioned the city and region for even greater success. Arthur's responsibilities at the Austin Chamber include promoting the Austin region as the premier destination for companies considering a relocation or expansion while guiding them through the site selection process. While at the Austin Chamber, he's worked with companies like Merck, PIMCO, SmileDirectClub, Pfizer, Flextronics, Natera and others to establish an Austin presence. Arthur is also very integrated with local businesses and continuing to improve the local business climate. Prior to joining the Chamber, he worked in Business Development for Allergan Inc. as part of a Business Development team that set record sales and individually achieved Sales Representative of the year in his pharmaceutical division. Arthur received his Bachelors of Business Administration in Marketing from Prairie View A&M University (Texas A&M System) and also holds an Executive MBA from the same institution.

  Cedar Park

  Chief Economic Development Officer

  Arthur Jackson

  Chief Economic Development Officer

  Cedar Park

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  Bryan Baynton

  Bryan is responsible for acquisition and development of new land opportunities throughout Central TX and other targeted industrial markets. In addition to sourcing new opportunities, he also manages the leasing and disposition of buildings in Titan’s existing industrial portfolio. Bryan is active in the Austin commercial real estate industry and serves as Chair of the Developing Leaders program for the Austin NAIOP chapter. Bryan holds bachelor’s degrees in Finance and Energy Management from the University of Tulsa and received his MBA from the University of Denver.

  Titan Development

  Director of Acquisitions & Development

  Bryan Baynton

  Director of Acquisitions & Development

  Titan Development

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  Burt Wellmann

  Mr. Wellmann is the Regional Discipline Leader for Civil/Site Development for Colliers Engineering & Design and is licensed in the state of Texas. He is adept in all aspects of land development and has managed high-profile projects throughout South/Central Texas. Mr. Wellmann has developed a lengthy project resume comprised of master-planned communities, municipal and public roadway reconstruction projects, and commercial projects involving both public and private entities. He has also managed and designed several prominent roadway and drainage projects, as well as water and wastewater systems. Mr. Wellmann is a current board member of the New Braunfels Economic Development Foundation.

  Colliers Engineering & Design

  Regional Discipline Leader for Civil/Site Development

  Burt Wellmann

  Regional Discipline Leader for Civil/Site Development

  Colliers Engineering & Design

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  Kevin Foltermann

  Kevin has nearly 20 years of experience in the AEC industry, with 18 of those working with DCA Construction, now part of W.E. O’Neil. Kevin worked his way through the ranks from project manager and estimator to director of operations, and is now a vice president leading our team in the Austin region. He has led major projects in the Austin and greater Texas markets, most recently completing 300 Colorado, a 32-story office building in the heart of downtown. Outside of his construction responsibilities, Kevin enjoys volunteering as a coach for the Lake Travis Youth Association and is also involved with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and South Texas.

  W.E O'Neil Construction

  Vice President

  Kevin Foltermann

  Vice President

  W.E O'Neil Construction

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  Will Gresham

  A Principal at STG Design, Will joined the firm in 2011 and brings more than a decade of experience as a project architect. His projects range from nonprofits to academic and corporate campuses. Will excels at prioritizing goals in design, schedule, and budget, and leading a team of consultants and contractors to meet those goals. He is also involved with several local organizations including the Board for the Austin Foundation for Architecture and Real Estate Council of Austin, to name a few.

  STG Design

  Principal, Director of Architecture

  Will Gresham

  Principal, Director of Architecture

  STG Design

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  Wes Wigginton

  A native of Houston, Texas, Wes’ 45+ year career started out at an early age as he discovered his abilities as a draftsman which quickly grew into a family development and construction business. Wes has lived in Austin since 1993 and founded Foursquare Builders & Foursquare Commercial to serve the ultra-luxury custom home and condo markets, high-end commercial construction, and real estate development. Wes is active in the Associated Building Contractors where he serves on the Government Affairs Committee. He has also led his firm to multiple “Builder of the Year” awards at the local and state level, as well as, being recognized at the national level for their Builder Safety Program. Wes currently serves on the Board of Directors for The Zach Cole Foundation as well as BGiving where he focuses his philanthropic efforts. His past Board experience includes AIA Austin, as well as the Local, State, and National Boards of Directors for the Home Builders Association.

  Foursquare

  Managing Director

  Moderator

  Wes Wigginton

  Managing Director

  Foursquare

Experiential Spotlight

Exploring Retail, F&B, and the 24-Hour City Model

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  Corvas Brinkerhoff

  Cofounder of Meow Wolf and the world's first immersive art bathhouse, Submersive, Corvas is an artist and entrepreneur dedicated to unlocking the transformative power of human creativity. His work at Meow Wolf has inspired millions and produced some of the world's most ambitious and impactful immersive art installations. With his new venture, Submersive, Corvas is focused on using the power of art, science, technology, and public bathing to create novel therapeutic immersive environments designed for healing, transformation, and expanding aliveness. Subversive's first location is set to open in Austin in 2026.

  Submersive

  Founder & CEO

  Corvas Brinkerhoff

  Founder & CEO

  Submersive

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  Nick Sutcliffe

  CEO

  Rush Social

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  Paul Oveisi

  Paul Oveisi, a native born Austinite has spent most of his career working in hospitality. He has conceptualized, launched, managed and operated New York and Austin-based projects including Cosmic Hospitality Group, Momo’s Club, El Original, ZirZamin NYC, Creamline NYC and has served in a consultant capacity for the multi-restaurant concept Hill Country BBQ (NYC) and The McKittrick Hotel/Sleep No More (NYC). Before embarking on his multiple hospitality ventures, Paul was an attorney practicing in Austin. Paul has deep knowledge of all components of a hospitality projects inner workings, having held every position — dishwasher, cook, busboy, waiter and bartender. Recognition for his long service to the local community through his work with local and state government officials and non-profit organizations. Paul served two terms on the Austin Music Commission, one term on the Austin Downtown Commission, was the Mayor’s appointee to Chair the Live Music Task Force, was a founding member of a non-profit: Austin Music People and currently serves on the Board of The Sims Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to the mental health of the music community. A certified Permaculture Designer, Paul has worked on concept design and installation of native and edible landscapes for multiple hospitality projects and advocating the use of sustainable landscapes and wildlife habitats in an urban/retail setting. Cosmic Hospitality Group, which includes Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden and Cosmic Saltillo has received national recognition for it’s hospitality, sustainability practices and design and has been featured on PBS, The Natural Gardener, Texas Monthly and has received numerous local accolades including Best Coffee Shop, Best Patio and wide recognition for it’s cocktail and coffee program. As partner and co-founder of Cosmic Hospitality Group, Paul has assembled a team that is poised for growth with multiple other hospitality projects underway in Central Texas. He currently lives in South Austin with his wife and children.

  Cosmic

  Owner/Partner

  Paul Oveisi

  Owner/Partner

  Cosmic

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  Tim Dowling

  Partner

  Moontower Group

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  Andrew Klare

  As a Design Director, Andrew has contributed to varied, program-rich developments around the world that bring together multiple uses to create positive synergies between their overlapping functions. This work ranges from an almost four million square foot, mixed-use complex in Chengdu, China that includes a 2,221-foot tower with vertical gardens to a compact, sustainably designed K-12 school on New York’s Upper West Side. Andrew has been at the forefront of KPF’s growing presence in Texas. His work on Waterline, a multi-program project in Austin that is lifted above the ground, and Knox Promenade, a transformative mixed-use development in Dallas, is helping to shape the future of the Lone Star State. Andrew’s expertise encompasses both commercial and institutional, private, and public work, including a business and management center at Morgan State University, a public, historically black research university in Baltimore, and a science teaching and student services center at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis that includes state-of-the-art classrooms that support new pedagogies and approaches to education. During his 20-year tenure at KPF, Andrew has collaborated with co-founder Bill Pedersen on a series of furniture and lighting, including “Folded Steel” a dining and coffee table set, TransFOMICA for the Cincinnati Contemporary Art Center “Architects at Play” Exhibit, Ivalo’s L’ale Pendant and Sconce, the LOOP de LOOP family of tubular furniture, and the Glacier Chandelier, designed with LASVIT.

  KPF

  Director

  Andrew Klare

  Director

  KPF

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  James Stinson

  James Stinson is a 7th generation Austinite, a descendant of pioneers who settled here in 1851. He holds a bachelor's degree in Finance from Texas State University. James is a co-founder of Austin NNN, a commercial land dev firm focused on projects in the Austin ETJ. Austin NNN develops multifamily, warehouse, rv, and bar/restaurant sites. Stinson’s firm also uses strategic FBU (focused buy up) methods to convert areas quickly. Stinson’s largest FBU is a 30 parcel play in the Manchaca Entertainment District. James introduced a petition now known as Prop P on the Nov 5th election which, if successful, will be Austin’s first mass disannexation by election under SB 2038.

  Austin NNN

  Co-Founder

  James Stinson

  Co-Founder

  Austin NNN

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  Jake Donaldson

  As Method's Managing Principal, Rayburn ‘Jake’ Donaldson oversees the firm's four geographic market offices in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio, 80 staff members, and 800+ projects annually. With over 20 years experience, Jake and his teams have designed millions of square feet of spec, manufacturing, cold storage, and distribution center facilities across Texas. Jake is passionate about exploring the next evolution of industrial building types including taller clear heights, innovative construction methods like 3d printing, AI, conveyance, and automation systems to help future-proof this asset class as a backbone of the U.S. supply chain.

  Method Architecture

  Managing Partner

  Moderator

  Jake Donaldson

  Managing Partner

  Method Architecture

Urban Cityscape

Developments and Initiatives Shaping Austin Zip Codes

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  Rich Leisy

  Rich spent the first 18 years of his career with developer/builder Ryan Companies and previously served as Vice President of Construction Operations and then Vice President of Industrial Development in the Austin market. Rich now leans on his diverse experience and 11 years in the Austin market to lead the industrial and multi-family development execution while growing the River City team and brand in Central Texas.

  River City Capital Partners

  Partner

  Rich Leisy

  Partner

  River City Capital Partners

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  Brad Stein

  Brad Stein leads Intracorp’s Texas region, operating out of Austin, Texas. With Brad’s experience, he is responsible for building and leading a multi-functional local team and overseeing Intracorp’s growth in Texas. Brad is well versed in real estate deal making and joint venture partnerships. Prior to joining Intracorp, as a VP with Forestar Group Inc. Brad managed Forestar’s real estate assets through investment and development of mixed use communities in Texas and other markets. Previously, Brad practiced as a real estate attorney in private practice and as in-house counsel for publicly traded companies, Forestar and Temple-Inland.

  Intracorp Texas

  President

  Brad Stein

  President

  Intracorp Texas

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  Eliane Maillot

  Eliane is Lake|Flato’s Director of Interiors, providing leadership for the interiors initiatives and maximizing the firm’s commitment to human wellness and design performance through projects, research, and client collaborations. Eliane believes that the best design comes from establishing a collaborative, client driven vision with human experience at its core, and that a collaborative process that blurs the lines between architecture and interiors makes for a more successful project. She is passionate about designing transformative spaces that enhance how people move and use a building at all scales.

  Lake|Flato

  Director of Interiors

  Eliane Maillot

  Director of Interiors

  Lake|Flato

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  Patrick Strake

  Patrick Strake joined Franklin Street in 2024 as a senior partner tasked with leading the firm’s multifamily division in Central Texas and surrounding areas. As an industry veteran with nearly a decade of experience closing transactions of core, and value-add opportunities throughout the region Strake employs an advisory approach to each assignment, concentrating on assisting clients with the acquisition and disposition of multifamily assets. With a strong background in property management, sales, and marketing, Patrick ensures clients effectively navigate the complexities of the market, particularly as out-of-state capital seeks yield in smaller markets across the state. Prior to joining Franklin Street, Strake became a well decorated broker at Marcus & Millichap while his earlier career includes a role at Dovetail Development Co., where he was involved in marketing and managing student housing developments, contributing to their successful positioning and lease-up phases. Patrick is an Austin native, married to Cristina Strake & proud father to two sons, Miles and Marshall.

  Franklin Street

  Multifamily Investment Sales Lead - Central Texas

  Patrick Strake

  Multifamily Investment Sales Lead - Central Texas

  Franklin Street

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  Amber Autumn

  With over 20 years of experience in the construction industry, Amber brings an abundance of industry knowledge to her Business Development role at Summit Design + Build. Amber grew up admiring the art of building construction, following her father into the industry. She began her career in the field in various superintendent roles before shifting her focus to project management and business development. Amber’s experience in all facets of construction allows her to better understand current and prospective clients’ unique visions and construction needs.

  Summit Design & Build

  Director

  Amber Autumn

  Director

  Summit Design & Build

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  Preston Patten

  Preston Patten is an Shareholder at Winstead PC. His current practice is focused on real estate development with an emphasis on structuring residential, mixed-use and office condominiums, and residential and mixed-use communities. Preston also represents developers in their creation and administration of property owner associations.

  Winstead

  Shareholder

  Moderator

  Preston Patten

  Shareholder

  Winstead