A new initiative at the University of Alabama aims to bring more people from underrepresented groups into entry-level positions in the real estate industry.
REimagined is an initiative of the university’s Alabama Center for Real Estate (ACRE).
“While industries like health care and education have been quick to adapt and embrace a diverse population and workforce, the real estate industry is lagging,” said Cherie Moman, ACRE director of education, marketing and communications. “To this point, only 16% of respondents in the 2020 CREW Network Benchmark Study: Gender and Diversity in Commercial Real Estate responded that 25% or more professionals in their workplace are BIPOC (Black, indigenous and people of color). As our country continues to diversify, we believe the industry can benefit greatly from a workforce that mirrors national demographics.”
The first REimagined program is CORE: Career Opportunities in Real Estate. The online credentialing program will provide life and skill-based coaching that will prepare participants for entry-level real estate jobs.
CORE is a partnership with LifeRamp, which provides college students and young professionals tools and support as they transition into careers.
“It’s really exciting to be a part of the REimagined initiative, and to see the vision and commitment of ACRE and local leaders coming together on this effort to create more diversity, equity and inclusion in such an important part of the U.S. economy,” said Michael Huckaby, LifeRamp founder and CEO. “We hope CORE will have not only a significant positive impact on young people in the state and in the South, but ultimately across the country.”
The first CORE cohort will launch in August 2021. For more information, go to reimaginedre.org.
