The past five years have brought an eye-watering amount of growth to the Valley. TSMC’s $165 billion investment in North Phoenix remains the poster child for this era of expansion, but it is by no means the only project that will reverberate through Arizona’s economy in the years to come. Because of that, the 2025 AZRE Forum, will focus on what’s to come: A five-year forecast for Arizona’s commercial real estate sector.

“The AZRE Forum, our annual commercial real estate update and forecast, will answer those questions,” says Amy Lindsey, publisher of AZ Big Media, which produces AZRE magazine. “Our panels of experts represent some of the brightest minds in the industry whose insights will leave you better informed about the most pressing issues in commercial real estate today.”

Since the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 100 million square feet of industrial development came to market, sophisticated hospitality projects such as the Global Ambassador and Ceasers Republic Scottsdale opened its doors, and region-shaping medical investments — such as Mayo Clinic’s West Expansion and the replacement of a more than 50-year-old hospital with Valleywise Health Medical Center — provided a much needed increase in healthcare capacity.

But with the first half of the decade in the rearview, what lies ahead for the region in the next five years? Can utilities meet the ever-increasing demand for power? Will air quality issues hinder Greater Phoenix’s capacity to grow? As the population increases, will declining affordability affect business attraction? How will negotiations around Colorado River water supplies shape the state’s future?

AZRE magazine will host the annual AZRE Forum on April 8, 2025, bringing together Arizona’s most brilliant and informed commercial real estate minds for panel discussions covering all things commercial real estate. To get tickets or to learn more, click here.

Here are the moderators and panelists for the 2025 AZRE Forum

Charley Freericks, president, Phoenix region, Howard Hughes Holdings

Emily Ganem, executive vice president, Ganem Construction

Jamie Godwin, president, Stevens-Leinweber Construction

Ben Gottlieb, founder, Gottlieb Law

Michael Marsh, associate vice president, Colliers

Jackie Orcutt, executive vice president, CBRE

Joe Stewart, senior business development manager, City of Goodyear

Joe Strobbe, vice president, Phoenix, Brinkmann Constructors

Jennifer Swanton, director of business strategy and growth, DAVIS

Charlie von Arentschildt, senior vice president, CBRE

Derek Wright, president & CEO, Suntec Concrete

Adam Wojack, executive vice president, Clune Construction

Meet the experts

Charley Freericks

President, Phoenix region, Howard Hughes Holdings

BACKGROUND: Freericks leads the residential and commercial development, leasing and operations of Teravalis, Howard Hughes’ new 37,000-acre master-planned community in the West Valley. Freericks is an industry veteran with more than 40 years of experience in large-scale community development throughout Arizona — including acquisition, entitlement, planning and design, implementation, and operations with an emphasis on commercial and mixed-use environments for the likes of Catellus Development Corporation and DMB Associates. He is an active contributor to numerous nonprofit organizations and currently serves on the board of the Arizona Community Foundation.

IMPORTANCE OF AZRE FORUM: “The real estate industry is very dynamic, with changes happening daily. Events like the AZRE Forum give all stakeholders the opportunity to share and learn from one another, and the collaboration makes us all better at what we do.”

TREND TO WATCH: “The stability of interest rates at a slightly lower level is what everyone is looking, hoping and praying for. I was expecting to hear a plan this quarter. We’re planning scenarios that include no change in mortgage rates, slight change (5-6%), and meaningful change (4-5%). Unfortunately, the trend is likely to be more of the same. It isn’t good news, and it isn’t horrible news.”

Emily Ganem 

Executive vice president, Ganem Construction 

BACKGROUND: Ganem brings a hands-on, energetic approach to leadership. With over five years in the industry, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s strategic direction, fostering a collaborative team culture and strengthening its position in the highly competitive construction market. Deeply connected to the local Phoenix business community, Ganem is passionate about innovation and creating a workplace that thrives on positivity and progress.

IMPORTANCE OF AZRE FORUM: “Events like the AZRE Forum are crucial because — let’s be honest — we all get so wrapped up in the day-to-day grind, focused on how our companies are operating, performing and navigating challenges. It is so easy to get tunnel vision. These forums create a space for us to step back, gain fresh perspectives from our peers and engage in meaningful conversations that help us see beyond our own walls. They’re not just networking opportunities; they are moments to reflect, exchange ideas and discern new opportunities we might have otherwise missed. It’s about sharpening our strategies, challenging our thinking and leaving with insights that inspire growth not just for our companies, but for the industry as a whole.”

TREND TO WATCH: “At Ganem, we are always looking ahead to ensure we’re adapting to the changing landscape of commercial real estate, development and construction. As we move into 2025, three key trends are shaping how projects are planned, built and experienced. Whether in retail, hospitality or office development, there is a growing demand for spaces that foster connection, community and engagement. This trend is influencing everything from site selection to architectural design, with an emphasis on creating destinations that resonate beyond transactional interactions.

“We’re also seeing a trend that as population growth accelerates in areas like the West Valley, retail development is following closely behind. The traditional model of focusing on core urban centers is shifting as developers and investors recognize the untapped potential of these rapidly expanding communities.

“Third, the construction landscape in Arizona is being shaped by increasing expectations around project timelines, cost management and operational efficiency. Clients are demanding faster turnarounds without compromising quality, driving a shift toward more strategic scheduling, stronger trade partnerships and lean operational models.”

Jamie Godwin

President, Stevens-Leinweber Construction 

BACKGROUND: As president and CEO, Godwin applies 32 years of CRE and construction experience to lead SLC, a full-service general contractor operating across the office, industrial, retail, medical and mixed-use sectors. He prioritizes industry leadership and a best-in-class experience as SLC deploys millions of square feet of award-winning space each year.

IMPORTANCE OF AZRE FORUM: “Events like the Forum add to our collective industry knowledge and inform our strategic planning, empowering us to build a healthy local economy by thoughtfully delivering the right commercial real estate product in the right place, at the right time.”

TREND TO WATCH: “We’re starting to see the office market bounce back, particularly in the tenant improvement sector as more companies implement back-to-office policies. There’s a general consensus that this momentum will continue, which is a welcome and positive shift for the industry.”

Ben Gottlieb

Founder, Gottlieb Law

BACKGROUND: Gottlieb attended the Sandra Day O’Connor School of Law at Arizona State University, where he served as the managing editor for the Arizona State Law Journal. Gottlieb is an experienced attorney who has handled hundreds of real estate, business and commercial cases. His 15-plus-year legal career has been highlighted by numerous court victories and successful settlements for his clients.  Gottlieb Law has more than a combined 70 years of focused legal experience and is a trusted leader in real estate, business and probate law.

IMPORTANCE OF AZRE FORUM: “Staying current with Arizona’s commercial real estate market is critical as the state continues to buck national trends and serve as a haven for key investments. While interest rates and inflation remain critical factors, Arizona’s robust population growth, tech sector expansion, and transformative developments are creating a dynamic landscape. Projects like the $7 billion Halo Vista community in Phoenix, built around the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, and the surge in data center developments in Buckeye are redefining commercial opportunities in the state. The AZRE Forum provides a platform to understand how these macro and microeconomic forces intersect, helping investors and stakeholders navigate this rapidly evolving market.”

TREND TO WATCH: “In 2025, interest rates and AI are the key forces shaping not only broader economic trends and the way people live but also commercial real estate. While higher rates impact financing and refinancing, Arizona is seeing a surge in AI-driven developments, especially data centers in Buckeye and research hubs in Phoenix. Investors should watch how AI infrastructure and demand for tech-ready properties reshape the market.”

Michael Marsh

Associate vice president, Colliers

BACKGROUND: As an associate vice president with Colliers, Marsh offers a wealth of experience and a client-centered approach to office property leasing. He has successfully been involved in over 500 transactions, totaling more than $500 million in total consideration. These transactions span a variety of services, including leasing, subleasing, sales, acquisitions, consulting and portfolio management. Marsh specializes in corporate advisory, tenant representation, investments and managing distressed or turnaround situations. Working closely with clients, he sets himself apart by becoming an integral part of their team. His legal and operational background allows him to ask the critical questions that lead to deeper insights into each client’s unique challenges and goals. By truly understanding their needs, he crafts customized real estate solutions designed to maximize value and create long-term success.

IMPORTANCE OF AZRE FORUM: “Events like AZRE Forum allow for unfiltered ideas to come into contact with our thinking. So much of what we see and hear is now filtered through some algorithm that limits things to what we are likely to want to see, hear and engage with which ultimately limits our ability to grow and come up with new ideas.”

TREND TO WATCH: “Office is quickly evolving in Phoenix. With all of the new to market companies — as well as growing local companies — desirable space will become more and more difficulty to find on the right budget and timeline.”

Jackie Orcutt

Executive vice president, CBRE 

BACKGROUND: Orcutt and her team specialize in institutional landlord and buyer representation, industrial and back-office leasing, and sales. In the last ten years alone, Orcutt has completed more than 82 million square feet of transactions valued at over $2.1 billion. She also serves on the Board of Directors for Positive Paths and the Professional Advisory Committee for SARRC. Additionally, she served as a director on the 2019 and 2020 Global Board of Directors for CREW.

IMPORTANCE OF AZRE FORUM: “Events like the AZRE Forum are crucial for bringing together industry professionals who exchange ideas and learn about innovative solutions and best practices. This can drive the industry forward and help companies improve their operations and services.”

TREND TO WATCH: “The demand for industrial space remains strong, driven by the growth of manufacturing, reshoring and logistics companies needing more warehousing and distribution centers. We are also on the lookout for an increasing demand for build-to-suit opportunities tied to specialized and high-tech manufacturing.”

Joe Stewart

Senior business development manager, City of Goodyear

BACKGROUND: Stewart brings both experience in economic development and public administration to the City of Goodyear. With nearly a decade in economic development and more than 15 years in the public sector, he has a proven track record of leading award-winning initiatives and fostering community engagement. Since joining Goodyear in 2022, Stewart has spearheaded the city’s retail, restaurant and entertainment business attraction efforts. He represents Goodyear at national trade shows, engages with hundreds of businesses annually, and leads strategic studies to drive economic growth.

IMPORTANCE OF AZRE FORUM: “Events like the AZRE Forum provide a critical platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing and relationship-building within the commercial real estate industry. Arizona’s market is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead requires a strong network of developers, brokers, investors and public sector partners working together. From a municipal perspective, forums like this allow us to connect with key stakeholders, share our community’s vision and ensure that cities like Goodyear are positioned for smart, sustainable growth. These conversations ultimately help drive investment, support job creation, and shape the future of our region.”

 

TREND TO WATCH: “One of the biggest trends shaping commercial real estate in 2025 is the rise of experience-driven developments — whether that’s in retail, office or mixed-use spaces. Businesses and consumers alike are prioritizing convenience, walkability and destinations that blend work, lifestyle and entertainment. In Goodyear, we’re seeing strong demand for vibrant, amenity-rich developments like GSQ, where people can shop, dine and gather in a connected environment. Companies looking to expand are also considering quality of life factors more than ever, making cities with strong community assets and workforce pipelines increasingly attractive.”

Joe Strobbe

Vice president, Phoenix, Brinkmann Constructors 

BACKGROUND: Strobbe has more than 20 years of experience in construction and executive leadership. He is focused on growing Brinkmann’s presence, team and opportunities in the Southwest as well as the day-to-day operations of the Arizona office. His insight into the industry and passion for advocating for Brinkmann’s clients have positioned him to make an impact and help strengthen the community.

IMPORTANCE OF AZRE FORUM: “The commercial real estate market is incredibly dynamic. Conditions can change quickly and those who are watching trends, analyzing data and preparing their teams will be in the best position to capture opportunities and market share. Time spent at programs like the forum offer invaluable quick hits of data and perspectives good business leaders utilize to lead their teams to success.”

TREND TO WATCH: “We all heard the term Survive to 25! In 2025, the Arizona construction market is likely to see growth in both residential and commercial sectors, driven by the state’s expanding population and infrastructure needs. With the continuing development of urban centers like Greater Phoenix and Tucson, especially in multifamily housing and mixed-use projects, construction will likely focus on meeting growing housing demands. Additionally, the increasing availability of smart building technologies and automation could drive the adoption of tech-focused solutions in new projects. Labor shortages remain a challenge and solving for both electrical demand and equipment will likely continue to be hurdles for projects.”

Jennifer Swanton

Director of business strategy and growth, DAVIS 

BACKGROUND: Swanton provides leadership on the executive team at DAVIS and uses her 25-plus years of eclectic professional experience and entrepreneurship to improve business outcomes by creating and executing a plan for success. She uses her unique abilities to create meaningful relationships which mutually benefit those within her professional, personal and non-profit worlds. Deeply connected to the community, Swanton serves on multiple committees and boards including Chair of the WLI Committee of ULI, AAED Government Affairs Committee, LLS Executive Challenge Chair, 50/50 Women on Boards Committee, and the Arizona Soccer Foundation Board.

IMPORTANCE OF AZRE FORUM: “It is important for the industry to come together for events like the AZRE Forum because I truly believe that we all need to work together to make Arizona a better place to live, work, and ‘be.’ When we share our experiences, ideas and intellect with each other we all benefit. I appreciate AZ Big Media for creating opportunities for us to collaborate and connect with other.”

TREND TO WATCH: “A trend that I will be speaking to throughout this year will be RTO (return to office). With high-profile companies like Amazon and Dell requiring employees to return to the office five days a week, other companies are using this to set new mandates themselves, whether to encourage resignations or to improve culture and collaboration.”

Charlie von Arentschildt

Senior vice president, CBRE 

BACKGROUND: Von Arentschildt focuses on helping institutional clients with the disposition of office properties throughout the Phoenix Metro. Since joining CBRE in 2014, he has transacted over 800 deals valued at $3.7 billion in total consideration. He dedicates time to Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Executive Council Charities and the Phoenix Art Museum. In 2023, he chaired the Phoenix Children’s Golf Tournament, raising over $1.5 million for the hospital’s foundation.

IMPORTANCE OF AZRE FORUM: “The AZRE Forum is an important event for our industry. It brings together industry leaders and allows them to collectively share their knowledge of the market through panel discussions and presentations. Our shared insights, challenges and opportunities can only help elevate our great state’s success.”

TREND TO WATCH: “The return of office! We expect tremendous bright spots in office in 2025 for the first time in some time. We’ve seen capital return to not only the very best projects but also significant value-add opportunities in the best pockets in Arizona. We also anticipate some very positive news in the fundamentals as tenants return to work and older supply comes off line and is put to better use.”

Derek Wright

President and CEO, Suntec Concrete 

BACKGROUND: Wright joined the company in 1990 as a carpenter and steadily rose through the ranks of leadership, becoming president in 2014. Suntec has grown into the leading concrete specialty contractor in the Southwest. In the decade that Wright has been at the helm, Suntec went from 700 employees and one office to 2,100 employees across four regions, and more than $900 million in annual revenue.

IMPORTANCE OF AZRE FORUM: “The AZRE Forum provides a critical platform for industry leaders to collaborate, share insights, and address challenges that impact the future of Arizona’s real estate and construction sectors. In an industry where relationships, market intelligence, and innovation drive success, coming together allows professionals to stay ahead of trends, forge strategic partnerships, and influence policies that shape our built environment. Events like the AZRE Forum also create opportunities for thought leadership, ensuring that companies remain competitive and well-positioned for growth in a rapidly evolving market.”

TREND TO WATCH: “One major trend shaping 2025 is the increasing demand for industrial and logistics infrastructure. With e-commerce growth, reshoring of manufacturing, and supply chain shifts, there is a heightened need for advanced industrial facilities, including distribution centers, cold storage, and high-tech manufacturing hubs. This demand is driving changes in site selection, building design, and construction methods, with an emphasis on speed-to-market, automation, and sustainability. Companies that adapt to these shifts — through strategic land acquisitions, innovative building solutions, and workforce development — will be well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities.”

Adam Wojack

Executive vice president, Clune Construction 

BACKGROUND: Wojack brings over 25 years of experience in the construction industry. A proven leader in field management, he has overseen millions of square feet of high-end build-outs and critical infrastructure projects across multiple sectors, including tenant improvements, hospitality, data centers and SCIF construction. Wojack, alongside Co-General Manager and Executive Vice President Jeremy Stanek, has played a pivotal role in building strong relationships with local subcontractors, developers, brokers and design partners, successfully expanding Clune’s portfolio in the region. Their leadership has been instrumental in growing the region’s resume in healthcare, hospitality, office tenant improvements and headquarters projects while expanding their mission-critical presence. Under their guidance, the Clune Phoenix office has grown to 43-plus full-time employees, reinforcing Clune’s long-term commitment to the Arizona market.

IMPORTANCE OF AZRE FORUM: “It’s always beneficial to stay connected with our peers to discuss industry trends, share best practices, and discuss potential solutions to common challenges that the market is experiencing.”

TREND TO WATCH: “The commercial real estate market is picking up, with larger HQ projects focusing in on the Phoenix Market. The development in Downtown Phoenix continues see rapid growth, once again becoming a viable option for multiple opportunities.”

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