Multifamily X Podcasts

With over 20 years of experience optimizing operations, training, and team performance, Richard Holdsworth specializes in creating systems that drive efficiency, consistency, and results. His background spans maintenance, compliance, and process improvement across fast-paced, service-driven environments. Richard is committed to building practical solutions that enhance productivity, safety, and long-term growth.

Mark is a leading resource in the field of service team development and brings to you all of the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to promote personal and professional development. Through his exceptional leadership and industry-proven effectiveness Mark has become a highly sought after resource to train service departments and assist companies in creating a customized training program or university to achieve their goals.Through Mark's upbeat and unique approach to delivering technical information each student is engaged and encouraged to learn how to work more effectively in the multi-housing and service industry. Mark was the Director of Service Team Development for Colonial Properties Trust, Inc, a New York Stock Exchange traded company with 148 properties and over 48,000 apartment homes. He has developed technical and leadership modules that are critical for a service department to operate successfully and lower employee turnover.

Kenneth Choat, is the Director of Property Maintenance at Thompson Thrift and member of the NAA Operations Committee and NAAEI CAMT Advisory Group

Adrian Danila breaks down the exact hiring process that stops multifamily operators from losing strong maintenance candidates to faster competitors.Three things you will walk away with: how to align your offer with the real market, how to respond inside the 12-hour window, and how to remove friction so candidates don't disappear before you close.If maintenance hiring feels like a losing race, this episode will change how you run the process.

Kenny Ramsey is the founder and president of R1 Facility Services, a nationwide provider of preventative maintenance services for multifamily communities. He built the company after years working across the residential HVAC, plumbing, and electrical trades, gaining deep operational knowledge of building systems and property maintenance.Since launching R1 in 2018, Ramsey has focused on helping multifamily operators address high-liability maintenance items such as dryer vent cleaning, inspections, and other preventative services designed to protect assets and reduce operational risk.JB Johnson serves as the Director of Sales at R1 Facility Services, where he works with multifamily owners and operators to implement preventative maintenance programs that protect building systems and reduce operational risk.He focuses on building relationships with property management teams across the country and helping communities address safety and compliance issues related to maintenance items such as dryer vents, gutters, and other critical infrastructure services.

Adrian Danila breaks down the most common procurement mistakes that quietly drain money from large portfolios. You will learn how price list gaps, vendor exclusivity, split shipping fees, rebates, and discount traps reduce NOI and property value. Procurement Reality Check: https://multifamilyxconsulting.com/procurement-reality-check/

Alexander Gotha was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, with deep cultural roots in the Caribbean islands. For nearly two decades, he has dedicated his career to the real estate, building, and construction industry, with hands-on experience spanning renovations, mechanical and structural repairs, and complex property management operations. He currently serves as the Service Supervisor at WPM Real Estate Management.Over the years, Alexander has built a reputation for being resourceful, efficient, and deeply committed to quality and integrity. He takes pride in finding smart solutions, whether repurposing parts to reduce costs or using innovative tools to streamline operations. His goal has consistently been to bridge the gap between maintenance professionals and the high demands of modern property management.

Nick Hecox is the Director of Maintenance at The Al Angelo Company, where he leads maintenance operations across a multifamily portfolio with a strong focus on operational discipline, team development, and service consistency. Nick brings a field-first mindset shaped by hands-on experience and is known for aligning maintenance execution with ownership goals, resident experience, and long-term asset performance.

Joel Spencer is a multifamily maintenance and operations leader currently serving as Director of Maintenance at Perennial Properties, where he oversees maintenance operations across a portfolio of high-end multifamily communities. He’s known for his hands-on leadership, focus on training, service quality, asset preservation, and enhancing resident experience. Prior to this, Joel worked his way up from field roles, having started in property management and advancing through operations positions including Service Technician and Regional Service Supervisor. His background includes various professional credentials such as LEED® Green Associate, CAPS, and CAMT, and he is active in industry leadership through associations like the Upper State Apartment Association. Guillermo Salazar is a business and technology executive, known for his role at IrisCX, a company focused on enhancing customer experiences with visual and AI-driven solutions. As a leader there, he drives the evolution and adoption of visual guides that improve product interaction, boost conversion rates, and elevate brand engagement. Salazar also serves as a Board Member of the US Proptech Council, where he helps bridge real estate technology, innovation, and investment, and contributes his expertise in strategy, business process optimization, and mentorship within the tech community.

Multifamily service and facilities leader and Regional Service Supervisor at Grubb Properties. He began in property management at age 15 and progressed through leasing and property management roles before moving into maintenance and operations. He joined Grubb Properties in 2012 as a Service Technician and advanced to Regional Service Supervisor in 2020, supporting service teams, asset performance, and resident experience across a portfolio.He holds the LEED® Green Associate™ credential, CAPS, and CAMT, along with additional safety and technical certifications, and maintains a South Carolina property manager license. He also serves in industry leadership through the Upper State Apartment Association.

At the helm of IrisCX, he spearheads the evolution of customer experience through visual and AI-driven solutions. The company’s mission is to enhance product interaction, from selection to support, transforming clients into enthusiastic brand advocates. Under his leadership, IrisCX has achieved the seamless integration of visual guides that significantly boost conversion rates and create memorable first impressions.As a Board Member of the US Proptech Council, he focuses on fostering collaboration between real estate technology, investment, and innovation, with the goal of driving profitability and growth. His expertise in business process optimization and strategy, honed over years of industry experience, informs his approach to executive decision-making and his ongoing commitment to mentorship in the tech community.

Duane Underwood is the Regional Service Director at Hawthorne Residential Partners, where he supports onsite service teams and oversees maintenance operations across a regional portfolio. A certified CAMT, EPA, CPO and OSHA 10 professional, Duane brings a strong technical foundation and a hands-on leadership style to training, safety and service excellence in the field.

Joel Spencer is the Director of Maintenance at Perennial Properties, where he leads all maintenance operations across a portfolio of high-end multifamily communities. Known for his hands-on leadership and focus on quality, Joel drives standards in training, service execution, asset preservation, and resident experience. With years of field experience and a reputation for solving complex operational challenges, he plays a key role in shaping Perennial’s maintenance culture and performance.

Wes Parry is the Director of Facilities at GMH Communities, where he oversees maintenance operations, capital projects, and asset management across the company’s portfolio. A U.S. Army veteran with more than two decades of service, Wes brings a disciplined, process-driven approach to facilities leadership.His background in hospitality and engineering, combined with business and MBA degrees, gives him a strong blend of operational expertise and strategic vision. Known for his hands-on leadership style, Wes focuses on building reliable systems, empowering teams, and delivering consistent quality across every property.

Sean Landsberg, the Co-Founder and CEO of AppWork, stands at the forefront of innovation in the multifamily maintenance industry. With a robust background in property management operations that spans over a decade, Sean has cemented his reputation as a forward-thinking leader. His most notable role before AppWork was Senior Vice President of Operations at a leading nationwide property management firm, where he honed his expertise and fueled his passion for maintenance. Under Sean's leadership, AppWork is redefining the approach to multifamily maintenance by integrating cutting-edge technology and client-centered solutions. Sean is a staunch advocate for the multifamily maintenance industry, emphasizing the vital role of maintenance and pushing for continual innovation in this field, thereby shaping a more efficient and progressive maintenance landscape.

Sean Landsberg, the Co-Founder and CEO of AppWork, stands at the forefront of innovation in the multifamily maintenance industry. With a robust background in property management operations that spans over a decade, Sean has cemented his reputation as a forward-thinking leader. His most notable role before AppWork was Senior Vice President of Operations at a leading nationwide property management firm, where he honed his expertise and fueled his passion for maintenance. Under Sean's leadership, AppWork is redefining the approach to multifamily maintenance by integrating cutting-edge technology and client-centered solutions. Sean is a staunch advocate for the multifamily maintenance industry, emphasizing the vital role of maintenance and pushing for continual innovation in this field, thereby shaping a more efficient and progressive maintenance landscape.

Ken Doble began his career as the on-site manager of a 24-apartment community, where he answered phones, fixed toilets, and collected rent.From there, he transitioned into accounting, became Controller, and later advanced to CFO. Eventually, he rose to COO, overseeing operations for 23,000 apartment homes across 11 states.When the 2008 financial crisis brought that company down, Ken charted a new course. He co-founded Quantitative Realty Capital (QRC) with a mission to operate smarter—acquiring underperforming apartments, repairing what was broken, and delivering real returns, not just pro formas.Over the past three decades, Ken has:• Worked across more than 30,000 apartment homes• Directed $233 million in renovations• Turned around hundreds of distressed propertiesHis perspective is grounded in experience at every level of the business, from the boiler room to the boardroom.Today, Ken focuses on two priorities: investing in apartments and exploring how AI and sharper business thinking can transform the way companies work, decide, and invest.He is also the author of The 5 P’s of Property Management, a practical guide to running better apartments through People, Pricing, Product, Promotion, and Processes.

With over 17 years of experience in multifamily and new development projects, Ed Ware specializes in optimizing operational efficiency within the Facilities function of property management software platforms. His expertise includes implementing and maximizing the use of key functionalities such as Service Requests, Inspections, Make Readies, and Asset Tracking, as well as leveraging components like Storefront and Vendor Marketplace within property management accounting systems.In addition to his certifications as a Mold Inspector and Mold Remediation Contractor, Ed excels in leading due diligence efforts to enhance property value, supporting risk management, and overseeing technical and mechanical operations to ensure that buildings, grounds, amenities, and common areas meet high standards of cleanliness, appearance, safety, and functionality. He works closely with Community Managers and Maintenance Teams to manage small construction and improvement projects and is highly skilled at negotiating contract terms and pricing to deliver optimal outcomes.

Ed Ware, Director of Facilities Management at AREY Group, brings over 17 years of experience in multifamily operations and new development projects. He specializes in optimizing efficiency within property management software platforms, with expertise in service requests, inspections, make readies, asset tracking, and vendor marketplace integrations. Recognized for his ability to streamline systems and elevate performance, Ed focuses on building facilities teams that deliver both operational precision and long-term asset value.Deonco Lavenski, Chief Operating Officer at WIT Services, has more than 15 years of experience helping facility and property managers, commercial property owners, and real estate professionals protect their buildings from mold and water damage.Known for his technical expertise and leadership, Deonco has built a reputation for delivering reliable solutions that safeguard properties, extend asset life, and ensure healthier environments for residents and tenants.

Tyrus Price, Maintenance Service Manager at Asset Living, brings over five years of experience in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. Recognized as a 2024 and 2025 brand ambassador, he has built a reputation for resident-focused service, strong problem-solving, and operational excellence. With a background in general contracting and commercial building maintenance, along with OSHA-30, NATE/ICE, and Residential ICC certifications, Tyrus is committed to elevating team performance, ensuring safety, and driving results.

Boris Halstead is Director of Residential Maintenance at David S. Brown Enterprises and a multifamily maintenance leader focused on training, safety, and the HVAC A2L transition. Davon Maye is Capital Expenditure Project Manager at Southern Management Companies, where he oversees large-scale projects and brings deep experience in service leadership and operations. Michael R. Mangum is Vice President at WPM Real Estate Management and a nationally recognized voice in multifamily maintenance strategy, workforce development, and operational training.

Boris Halstead is Director of Residential Maintenance at David S. Brown Enterprises and a multifamily maintenance leader focused on training, safety, and the HVAC A2L transition. Candice Manning is Director of Workforce Development and Training at the Maryland Multi-Housing Association with over 20 years in sales and 15 in property management; she founded MMHA’s Leasing Training Academy and was named NAA’s 2025 ACE Educator of the Year.

Oscar Rodriguez-Aguila is a seasoned real estate executive with over 25 years of experience in property management and asset preservation. He began his career as a maintenance technician and steadily advanced to leadership roles, earning the Certified Property Manager (CPM®) designation and co-founding ProActive Realty Investments, an Accredited Management Organization (AMO®).Born in Mexico and raised in Orange, California, Oscar graduated from California State University Fullerton in 2004 with a bachelor's degree. He is deeply committed to community service, serving as the Board Chair of the Fair Housing Council of Orange County and as Vice President of Education for IREM Orange County. Oscar is an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, working to improve housing conditions and inspire future generations.

Experienced Facility manager with a demonstrated history of working in the real estate industry. Skilled in Customer Service, Management, Strategic Planning, Leadership, and Project Planning. Strong operations professional with a Master's degree focused in Specialized Sales, Merchandising and Marketing Operations from Universidad CEU San Pablo.

Jesse is a Regional Maintenance Supervisor with over five years of experience in the apartment maintenance industry. Based in Lafayette, Indiana, Jesse has earned recognition for excellence, being named the Indiana Apartment Association’s 2024 Maintenance Technician of the Year. In addition, Jesse was honored as a 2025 “20 on the Rise” recipient by the National Apartment Association. With a commitment to quality service and leadership, Jesse continues to make a significant impact in the industry.

Senior Service and Construction Manager with over 25 years of expertise in multifamily and single-family housing, including high-rise, garden-style, mid-rise, student housing, elderly communities, lease-ups, and full renovations. Strong working knowledge of key property management and maintenance systems such as Yardi, OneSite, ResMan, Entrata, Maintenance X, RenoWalk, and the basics of Procore.With a passion for mentorship, this professional thrives on sharing knowledge and training new service team members across all aspects of service operations. Brings a strategic understanding of how to leverage KPIs to drive positive change within communities—improving efficiency, elevating team performance, and enhancing overall operations.Backed by more than two decades of hands-on experience in all major trades, including HVAC (air conditioning, refrigeration, heating), plumbing, electrical, drywall installation and finishing, painting, carpentry, and appliance repair.

Brian McGlawn is the Regional Director of Facilities & Engineering Services at BozzutoManagement, bringing over two decades of experience in the facilities and engineering sector.Since entering the industry in 2004, Brian has worked at every level within maintenance andfacilities operations, developing a well-rounded expertise that drives his leadership today.He earned his Bachelors degree in Business Management, along with a Certificate in GeneralManagement, from the University of Phoenix in 2018. In 2024, Brian furthered his professionalcredentials by obtaining his Certified Professional Maintenance Manager (CPMM) certificationfrom AFE.Brian’s career began after he obtained his HVAC certification from Lincoln Tech, and his passionfor development and mentorship has always been at the heart of his work. He believes that thebest gift one can give is helping others realize their gifts and reach their full potential.Outside of his professional life, Brian is an active member of his local church, where he servesalongside his family. A proud husband and father of two, Brian enjoys traveling and attendinglive events with his loved ones, always seeking to create lasting memories together.

Special guests: Tim Turner (Avenue 5) and Craig Bartholomew (NetVendor)

Mark Sharp is a seasoned professional in the property management industry, currently serving as the Vice President of Facilities at NOAA Property Management in Greenville, South Carolina. His career began unexpectedly when he took on a part-time leasing consultant role, which ignited his passion for the multifamily sector. Over the years, Mark transitioned from office management to maintenance, driven by his desire for hands-on problem-solving and resident interaction. His dedication and expertise have been recognized through various certifications, including the Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT) designation, Universal EPA Certification, and Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Certification. Beyond his professional responsibilities, Mark is committed to education, teaching continuing education courses for maintenance and EPA certification. He also co-hosts the "Multifamily Mixtape" podcast, offering insights into the multifamily industry.

With her extensive experience and proven success in the multifamily and PropTech sectors, Dani is set to spearhead AppWork's market expansion and drive growth.

An experienced director of maintenance and property management professional with extensive expertise in general building repairs and facilities oversight. Proven track record in managing complex systems and projects, including plumbing, electrical, lighting, HVAC, boiler systems, pool maintenance, roofing, flooring, painting, cabinetry, and more. Deep understanding of building code regulations and compliance requirements.

Regional Maintenance Manager at Greystar

Mark is a leading resource in the field of service team development and brings to you all of the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to promote personal and professional development. Through his exceptional leadership and industry-proven effectiveness Mark has become a highly sought after resource to train service departments and assist companies in creating a customized training program or university to achieve their goals.Through Mark's upbeat and unique approach to delivering technical information each student is engaged and encouraged to learn how to work more effectively in the multi-housing and service industry. Mark was the Director of Service Team Development for Colonial Properties Trust, Inc, a New York Stock Exchange traded company with 148 properties and over 48,000 apartment homes. He has developed technical and leadership modules that are critical for a service department to operate successfully and lower employee turnover.

Founder & CEO @ KAIROS From a background in the residential real estate finance industry through the 08 market crash, Dean has built a luxury home services company with over 35k customers in metro Atlanta which led him to the challenge of solving a customer need that created what is now his latest venture, Kairos. It's a digital water technology company focused on asset protection and water conservation through a patented metering and leak detection system. Having personally witnessed the aftermath of over 3,000 water damage cases and working closely with insurance providers lends to a unique perspective on exactly why 14,000 water damage claims are filed every day. 

With over four years of experience in the multifamily industry and a decade of general maintenance experience, this individual serves as a Maintenance Supervisor at Simpson Housing, one of the nation's leading developers and operators of high-quality residential communities. Holding CAMT, CPO, and EPA Type II certifications, they demonstrate technical expertise and the ability to handle diverse aspects of maintenance and repair. His core competencies include designing and implementing efficient systems for apartment turns, work order completion, vendor management, and purchasing. He excels in leading a team of three technicians to deliver high-quality service to 340 luxury apartment units. His leadership focuses on driving resident satisfaction and retention through operational excellence and innovation.

Jason Simpson, Maintenance Supervisor at Embrey, brings a wealth of experience across diverse portfolios, including luxury properties, HUD housing, and challenging distressed properties. He combines technical expertise with the essential soft skills required in today's property maintenance industry. With a strong commitment to going above and beyond for both residents and management, Jason is passionate about training and transforming the role of the modern apartment maintenance technician.

Jay Abney is the Senior Director of Maintenance and Technical Education, leading the National Maintenance Operations Department for Greystar North America. Jay oversees the policies, procedures and technical training for over 10k Service team members and provides support and mentorship to 65 Regional Maintenance Managers and Regionalized Directors of Maintenance, who in turn, support a US portfolio of over 3,000 communities with 1 million units under current management. Jay is also a part of Greystar’s Learning & Development Department.

With over two decades in property management, Darron Bethea's tenure at Dominium has honed his expertise in sustainability and energy efficiency. Alongside his team, he has effectively managed maintenance across multiple properties, ensuring compliance with Section 8/PRAC 202 and LIHTC tax credit programs, while excelling in state and federal inspection preparations. Leadership in capital improvement projects and HVAC technology repair has been a hallmark of his career. Darron has fostered strong team dynamics, driving his team to excel in complex problem-solving scenarios. These collective efforts contribute to Dominium’s reputation for excellence in residential community management and maintenance.

In this Masters of Maintenance - Live Special, Adrian Danila leads a panel featuring industry experts Jedd McDaniel, Mike Mulloy, and Juan Carlos Islas. The conversation revolves around key topics in multifamily maintenance, particularly the challenges and strategies for training and developing the workforce. Jedd McDaniel shares insights into Allied Residential’s tiered maintenance response team, highlighting how structured programs can mentor and upskill new employees, filling the talent gap in the industry. The panel also discusses broader concerns, such as the importance of scalable training solutions that can be applied across different organizations and geographies. Other topics include the use of technology in maintenance operations, from virtual learning to hands-on apprenticeships, and strategies for attracting and retaining top talent in a sector facing ongoing staffing challenges. The overall focus is on how companies can build a sustainable pipeline of skilled workers while adapting to new technologies and evolving industry demands.

Vice President Of Property Services at CONAM Management Corporation

Chris VanDruff is the Vice President of Facility Services at Maxwell Group, Inc., overseeing facility services for 15 senior living communities across six states, totaling 3,400 units. His responsibilities include training, coordination, and quality control for independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, rehab, respite care, and memory care services. Previously, VanDruff served as Director of Facilities at Queens University of Charlotte and held facility management roles at Arnot Ogden Hospital and Cornell University, where he spent his longest tenure. A Cornell graduate with a Master’s in Industrial and Labor Relations, he also holds various maintenance and construction certifications and worked as a journeyman plumber/fitter. VanDruff is passionate about leadership, coaching, and customer service, emphasizing the human aspect of facility management and the importance of kindness, humility, and service to others.

Peter Christenson is a versatile professional with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and various certifications, including EPA Technician Type Universal, CPO, and CRMT. He currently serves as Director of Maintenance and Purchasing at Centerspace, managing operations across 70 properties with nearly 13,000 units. With a strong background in fitness management, maintenance, and team leadership, Peter excels in driving efficiency and achieving financial goals. His military experience in the USMCR further complements his ability to lead and manage diverse teams effectively.

Jake Straight is a seasoned multifamily maintenance professional with nearly two decades of experience in the industry. Currently serving as a Multi-Site Maintenance Supervisor at Thrive Communities, Jake has a diverse background that spans various roles, including groundskeeper, service supervisor, leasing agent, and property manager. His career began with Equity Residential, where he quickly rose through the ranks due to his adaptability and commitment to excellence. Jake's unique career path has provided him with a comprehensive understanding of both the management and maintenance sides of property operations. This dual expertise allows him to bridge gaps between teams, fostering better communication and efficiency in property management. Jake is passionate about the multifamily industry and is actively involved with industry organizations such as the Washington Multifamily Housing Association (WMFHA) and the National Apartment Association (NAA). Dedicated to professional growth and the development of his team, Jake emphasizes the importance of cross-training, networking, and continuous learning. He is committed to creating positive work environments and advocates for greater recognition and training for maintenance professionals. Jake's long-term goal is to transition into property ownership, where he aims to build a company that prioritizes employee well-being and exemplifies best practices in the industry.

Mark Sharp, the Vice President of Facilities at N.O.A.H Property Management, brings over two decades of unparalleled expertise in the multifamily industry to his role. With a comprehensive background that spans every facet of property management, Mark has accumulated invaluable insights and honed his skills through various positions, from on- site roles to supplier partnerships and corporate environments.   Mark's dedication to excellence is not only in his extensive experience but also in his commitment to industry leadership. He served admirably for eight years as a Board Member of the Apartment Association, demonstrating exceptional leadership skills during two terms as President of the Upper State Apartment Association and as an Executive Board Member of the South Carolina Apartment Association.   His dedication to professional development is showcased through his numerous certifications, including the CAMT Designation, Universal EPA Certification / Proctor, and CPO Certification. Mark's passion for education extends beyond his advancement; he serves as an educator for the industry, imparting knowledge through continuing education courses for Maintenance and EPA Certification.   Outside of his professional endeavors, Mark is a dedicated swim coach for Eastside High School, exemplifying his commitment to mentorship and community involvement. When he's not on the pool deck, Mark enjoys treasured moments with his children and family, exploring nature through hiking, and discovering new bike trails. Mark Sharp is not just a leader in property management; he's a multifaceted individual dedicated to making a positive impact both professionally and personally.

Serial Innovator- Ideation, Creation, Conveyance & Implementation Specialist Strong professional, skilled in Strategic Planning, Creative Problem-solving, Marketing Analysis, Business Plan Analysis, Organizational Policy & Implementation, Operations Management, Sales, Guerrilla Marketing and Non-profit Management. Experienced leader with a demonstrated history of working in built-environment systems technology industries. Has successfully founded and fostered several startups and solution initiatives from inception through diapers, growing toward successful exits.Jim founded Capital F&S for customers and employees, exiting in 2018. In creating Cap-Com, LLC, America's first wireless large-scale apartment intercom, he learned the dynamics of international technology trade. In 2017, Jim helped OneEvent Technologies hone and market a revolutionary security/advanced fire warning platform, shaving nearly 20 minutes off fire response times. Since 2014, Jim served as founder and now as chairman of FM Pipeline Team, Inc. 501(c)(3); engaging, enlightening & energizing the #NextGenOfFM, while building the team and program toward international stature among numerous startups and board posts.Jim recently completed photovoltaics courses toward renewable energy platform specialization and serves in the Experimental Aircraft Association's Vette Seaplane base, a 1-week harbor for hundreds of seaplanes over many years. He leads a team of 4, building a Pietenpol Aircraft, a scratch-built two-place open-cockpit aircraft due for completion in Summer 2024 and serves as a recurrent FaciliCast podcast host for the built environment and Facility Management industries.

James Ohrn is the Area Maintenance Manager at Avenue 5 Residential, bringing over a decade of experience in multifamily maintenance. Starting his career in 2012, James transitioned from running a training business to excelling in the maintenance field, driven by a personal tragedy. His journey saw rapid advancement from a maintenance technician to a regional manager, emphasizing the importance of dedication, continuous learning, and transformative leadership. Passionate about training and personal development, James is committed to fostering strong team relationships and leveraging technology and innovation to build resilient and efficient maintenance teams. His expertise and inspiring story offer valuable insights into the evolving multifamily maintenance industry.

Joshua Patrick is the regional maintenance director for CWS Apartment Homes. His career in multifamily maintenance began unexpectedly after a downturn in the welding industry led him to apply for a maintenance technician position. Starting from a porter role, Joshua quickly advanced, gaining expertise in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and more. He is known for his proactive approach and dedication to continuous learning, which includes earning an EPA certification and studying technical manuals. Joshua has managed teams, overseen multiple properties, and implemented preventive maintenance strategies, significantly improving operations. Now managing 20 properties in Austin, Joshua balances operational duties with capital projects and compliance tasks. He emphasizes confidence, risk-taking, and continuous improvement. Joshua aspires to be remembered as a supportive leader who shares his knowledge and empowers others in the multifamily maintenance industry.

Juan Carlos Lara Islas serves as the Senior Director of National Multifamily Facilities at Southern Land Company. With more than 15 years of experience in engineering and maintenance operations, his career spans new developments, construction, and operating assets. His core competencies include problem-solving, team building, and morale enhancement. He is passionate about delivering high-quality facilities services that enhance the living experience of residents and the value of properties. He collaborates with cross-functional teams, contractors, vendors, and stakeholders to ensure alignment of goals, standards, and best practices. Leveraging his background in electrical and electronics engineering, he implements innovative solutions and technologies that optimize efficiency, sustainability, and safety.

Jedd offers an extensive knowledge, skill set and unique approach to the commercial and multifamily real estate industry. For over 25 years he has specialized in providing excellent customer/client relations and team building. He believes that knowledge, communication, and a positive outlook are the keys to success. As Director of Maintenance/Electrical Administrator/Safety Director, Jedd improves Allied's operations through maintenance and safety trainings, best overall practices and support for site personnel. Jedd is an Electrical Administrator and has maintained his 07B Electrical License since 2002. He holds certifications in OSHA 511 Safety and Health Standards, is an OSHA 501 General Industry Trainer, and is a Certified Pool/Spa Operator with training in First Aid and CPR. Jedd is an EPA Certified Type 1/Type 2 Technician for HVACR as well as a Community Emergency Response Team Member with FEMA. Jedd has been awarded "Maintenance Supervisor of the Year" from For Rent Magazine in 2005 and 2008, was recognized as a finalist in 2015 and 2016, and "Regional Maintenance Director of the Year" from WMFHA in 2022.

Shane Nemmers, Vice President of Construction and Facilities at Venterra Realty. The portfolio is about 25,000 units in TX, FL, GA, OK, KY, TN, and NC. He is an accomplished leader with over 20 years of experience in the Multi-Family arena. In his role, Shane is responsible for Capital Expenditures, Maintenance, Procurement, and Design Services.  Shane brings a high level of expertise to value-add construction, renovation, facilities, operations, and asset preservation. His tactical leadership style and commitment to excellence align with his responsibilities to enhance Venterra’s strategic efforts in advancing sustainability, growth, and efficiencies. He takes a solution-oriented approach to problem solving.  Shane has a track record of success with Garden Style, Mid-Rise, and High-Rise communities for market rate, affordable, and mixed-use assets. His experience includes senior leadership roles with Waterton Residential, Greystar, Buckingham Co, and Prime Residential.  Shane attended the College of DuPage for Business Management and EPA Universal Cert/HVAC+R.