by Peter Madrid | Oct 1, 2026 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, Ariz. (Oct. 1, 2026) – Wespac Construction promoted Tyler Mark from Vice President to Chief Operating Officer, recognizing his 22 years of leadership, operational expertise, and commitment to the company’s growth across Arizona.
Mark will serve as a strategic and operational partner to the CEO, overseeing the day-to-day execution of Wespac’s construction operations. He will focus on optimizing project delivery workflows, strengthening supply chain and subcontractor relationships, implementing robust project controls, and scaling the company’s internal operational infrastructure.
His leadership will help ensure Wespac’s more than $500 million portfolio is delivered safely, on time, on budget, and to the highest quality standards while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Mark has played a pivotal role in developing and managing Wespac’s Northern Arizona office in Flagstaff, helping build the region’s presence and reputation following the economic challenges of the Great Recession.
“Developing our Northern Arizona branch into what it is today has been a long and winding road, but I am extremely proud of who we are as a company and what we have accomplished together,” Mark said. “Affordable housing is something I’ve worked on directly, not just talked about.
“Through my work with Habitat for Humanity of Northern Arizona, I was part of a three-person team that created the pilot starter-home program, and our team has been a major part of the Habitat starter-home program that has evolved since 2017, including the first 10 homes dedicated in 2025,” Mark said.
Mark’s passion for affordable housing and community service extends beyond his professional responsibilities. He has served on the board of Habitat for Humanity of Northern Arizona since 2011 and currently serves as board president. He also serves on the boards of the Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce and the Northern Arizona University Industry Advisory Board, where he mentors construction management students.
His past leadership roles include serving as president of the Northern Arizona Builders Association and as a board member for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flagstaff.
“Tyler exemplifies the leadership, integrity, and commitment to excellence that define Wespac Construction,” said Glenn Leier, Wespac Vice President of Client Strategy & Vision. “Over the past 22 years, he has helped shape our company’s culture, expanded our presence in Northern Arizona, and delivered outstanding results for our clients and partners. His operational expertise, strategic vision, and deep commitment to our people make him the ideal leader to help guide Wespac through its next chapter of growth.”
A Phoenix native, Mark earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management from Arizona State University, graduating magna cum laude. Active in the construction industry since 1998, he has led large commercial and multifamily developments, higher education housing projects, hospitality developments, tenant improvements, and high-end office projects. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with project owners as a trusted advisor and project principal.
Outside of work, Mark enjoys spending time with his two children, golfing, hiking and exploring Arizona’s outdoors.
About Wespac
Established in 1991, Wespac Construction Inc. is a general contracting and construction management firm, offering pre-construction and construction services in various market sectors. From small tenant improvement projects to large shell and master-planned communities, Wespac is a true partner to our clients throughout the entire project lifecycle. We pursue the art of construction, while contributing knowledge, leadership, passion, and commitment to every employee, client, and project team. Wespac has offices in Phoenix and Flagstaff, Arizona. For more information visit www.wespacaz.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Oct 1, 2026 | News & Updates
Now open and ready for immediate move-in, Monarc on Roosevelt offers brand-new 2- and 3-bedroom townhomes featuring private 2-car garages, and resort-style amenities.
GOODYEAR, Ariz. (Oct. 1, 2026) – Monarc on Roosevelt, a new luxury townhome community located in Goodyear, has officially opened its doors and is now welcoming residents for immediate move-in.
Offering a blend of modern style, sophisticated design, and maintenance-free living, Monarc on Roosevelt, 885 N. 157th Lane, introduces a new standard for elevated West Valley rental homes.
Designed to fit how residents live, work, and relax, the gated community features two- and three-bedroom townhomes with the space and privacy of a single-family home.
Exterior of the Monarc on Roosevelt townhomes
Each townhome features a private attached two-car garage, a versatile loft, private courtyards, smart home technology, and high-end finishes that create a comfortable and elevated living experience.
“We’re proud to celebrate the grand opening of Monarc on Roosevelt and our continued investment in the growth of Goodyear. Monarc was thoughtfully designed with premium finishes and modern amenities, and above all, as a place our residents can be proud to call home,” said Brad Richardson Jr., President of Ascent Companies, developer of Monarc on Roosevelt. “These homes offer the feel and comfort of a single-family home, complete with a two-car garage, alongside the amenities of a resort-style community. We’re excited to be part of the Goodyear community and look forward to welcoming our first residents home.”
Monarc on Roosevelt offers a collection of community amenities designed to complement an active and connected lifestyle. Residents can enjoy a heated swimming pool with cabanas, an expansive fitness center, and dedicated work-from-home spaces, making it easy to stay productive without leaving home.
Additional amenities include thoughtfully designed gathering spaces, a tot lot, and two dog parks. Monarc on Roosevelt is within walking distance of restaurants and shops and has convenient access to Interstate 10, placing residents just minutes from major employment hubs, entertainment, and recreation throughout the West Valley and Metro Phoenix.
With spacious townhome living, private two-car garages, flexible loft spaces, and resort-inspired amenities, Monarc on Roosevelt offers residents the opportunity to enjoy more than an apartment and less maintenance than a single-family home.
For more information, visit Monarc on Roosevelt at 885 N. 157th Lane, Goodyear, call (602) 691-5803, or visit the website at monarcroosevelt.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Oct 1, 2026 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, Ariz. (Oct. 1, 2026) – Kidder Mathews has expanded its Phoenix Healthcare Services Group with the addition of three professionals: Amita Sall, Shannon Hamer, and Makai Rich, underscoring the firm’s continued growth and commitment to serving Arizona’s evolving healthcare real estate market.
The new team members bring diverse experience in healthcare advisory services, transaction management, financial analysis, development, and site selection, strengthening one of the region’s leading healthcare-focused commercial real estate practices.
“Healthcare providers continue to face complex real estate decisions as they grow, relocate, and adapt to changing patient needs,” said Rachael Thompson, Senior Vice President at Kidder Mathews. “Amita, Shannon, and Makai each bring unique strengths that enhance our ability to deliver strategic solutions for healthcare clients throughout Arizona. Their expertise, energy, and commitment to client service make them exceptional additions to our team, and we’re excited about the opportunities ahead.”
Sall joins the Healthcare Services Group as an Associate, where she primarily focuses on tenant representation for healthcare providers across the Valley.
Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Sall attended Seattle University and earned an INSEAD Social Entrepreneurship Certificate. With a previous background in healthcare recruitment at many of the major hospital systems in the Puget Sound, she now holds an Arizona Department of Real Estate Salesperson’s License and is active in numerous industry organizations, including the Association of Medical Facilities Professionals (AMFP), Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA), AZCREW, and Women in Healthcare.
Sall’s diverse background and client-centered approach have helped establish her as a trusted advisor in healthcare real estate. She assists clients with property acquisitions, leasing strategies, and long-term real estate planning, combining market expertise with a strong commitment to service and relationship building.
Outside of work, Sall enjoys international travel, exploring world cuisine, and watching international films. She is also active in community service through organizations including AFS International Exchange, Water1st International, and Global Ties Arizona.
Shannon Hamer
Hamer joins Kidder Mathews as a Healthcare Real Estate Specialist and will provide transaction management services while supporting leasing efforts for the team’s medical office portfolio.
Originally from Toronto and raised in Phoenix, Hamer attended Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business. She previously worked within an occupier services group, where she managed multi-market real estate portfolios and provided transaction management, site selection, and lease negotiation services.
Her commercial real estate background spans office, retail, and residential development, giving her a broad perspective that benefits healthcare clients navigating today’s increasingly competitive real estate environment.
Hamer lives in Phoenix with her husband and two children and is involved with the Southwest Autism Resource & Research Center (SARRC), serving on the organization’s annual fundraiser planning committee.
Rich joins the team as Brokerage Team Coordinator with a primary focus on tenant representation. Born and raised in Orange County, California, Rich earned a bachelor’s degree in finance with a minor in real estate from ASU’s W. P. Carey School of Business. He also attended the University of Hawaii at Hilo, where he played collegiate baseball.
In his role, Rich helps healthcare practices evaluate potential locations, compare real estate options, and navigate the leasing process. He also
Makai Rich
supports the team with property tours, lease negotiations, and transaction coordination.
Before joining Kidder Mathews, Rich gained experience in real estate development, financial analysis, and sales. During internships with Trammell Crow Residential, he researched development opportunities, analyzed acquisition prospects, and supported construction projects. His sales experience further sharpened his relationship-building and client service skills, complementing his analytical real estate background.
As demand for healthcare services continues to grow across Arizona, the expanded team positions Kidder Mathews to provide even greater support to medical practices, healthcare systems, investors, and property owners throughout the region.
About Kidder Mathews
Kidder Mathews is the largest independent commercial real estate firm on the West Coast, with over 900 real estate professionals and staff in 19 offices in Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, and Arizona. Kidder Mathews offers a complete range of brokerage, appraisal, asset services, consulting, and debt & equity finance services for all property types. The firm performs $9 billion in transactions, manages 54 million square feet of space, and conducts 2,700 appraisal, consulting, and cost segregation assignments annually. For more information, visit kidder.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Sep 29, 2026 | News & Updates
TEMPE, Ariz. (Sept. 29, 2026) – Terracon is pleased to announce three experienced professionals joining its Arizona operations, strengthening the firm’s environmental and project delivery capabilities across the region.
Lisa Cuestas and Laura Miner, QEP, have joined the Tucson office; Graham Craig has joined the firm’s Tempe office.
“Lisa, Laura, and Graham each bring exceptional expertise, leadership, and a deep commitment to client service,” said Brent Borchers, Director of Regional Operations for Terracon’s Desert Southwest operation. “Their combined experience across environmental compliance, project coordination, and environmental planning strengthens our ability to serve clients throughout Arizona and the Desert Southwest. We are excited to welcome them to the Terracon team.”
As Supervisor of Project Coordination, Cuestas brings more than 30 years of professional experience to her role. She provides oversight and supervision for Terracon’s team of project assistants and coordinators, helping ensure the successful delivery of projects through effective document control, compliance management, quality assurance, scheduling, and contract administration.
Cuestas serves as a liaison among clients, project managers, and company leadership, facilitating clear communication regarding project status, deliverables, and client concerns.
Before joining Terracon, she provided strategic leadership in urban planning, development, public and private administration, environmental compliance, and Brownfields redevelopment programs. Her experience includes management of Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments, remediation projects, EPA Brownfields grants, compliance programs, and health and safety planning.
She has also managed environmental projects associated with major regional initiatives, including the Grant Road widening project, Downtown Links, Downtown redevelopment, and the Rio Nuevo Congress and Nearmont landfills.
A Tucson native, Cuestas attended Pima Community College, the University of Phoenix, and the University of Arizona Eller Executive Education program. She is a member of the Southern Arizona Environmental Management Society (SAEMS) and has served as an officer of the organization.
Outside of work, she enjoys trail hiking, gardening, spending time with family and friends, and attending sporting events.
Laura Miner
Joining Terracon as Regional Regulatory Compliance Leader for Environmental Services, Miner returns to the Desert Southwest, bringing 34 years of environmental consulting and regulatory compliance experience. In her role, she will help grow the firm’s environmental services practice by providing subject matter expertise in air quality permitting and compliance, environmental compliance auditing, sustainability programs, greenhouse gas reporting, stormwater and wastewater permitting, contingency planning, and environmental management systems.
Miner was raised in Forkston, Pennsylvania. She earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a minor in environmental science from Franklin & Marshall College and later completed a degree in sustainability management and policy from Penn State University. She is a member of the Air & Waste Management Association (A&WMA) and the American Chemical Society (ACS).
Miner is also active in community service, volunteering as an educator with Heritage Conservancy and supporting Wish Them Well Togo through fundraising and social media outreach efforts that help provide access to clean drinking water. In her free time, she enjoys plein air painting.
Graham Craig has joined Terracon in its Tempe office as a Senior NEPA Practitioner. With 21 years of industry experience, Craig prepares and
Graham Craig
manages a wide variety of environmental projects, helping clients successfully navigate environmental review and planning requirements.
A native of Houston, Craig earned a bachelor’s degree in geography and urban planning from The University of Texas at Austin. He brings extensive experience supporting infrastructure and development projects through environmental analysis and regulatory compliance. Outside of work, he is a car restoration enthusiast.
About Terracon
Terracon is an employee-owned multidisciplinary consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Our talented employee-owners provide on-time and real-time data-driven insights to create an unmatched client experience that spans the lifecycle of any project, any size, anywhere. Start to explore with us by visiting terracon.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Sep 24, 2026 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, Arizona — Wespac Construction is proud to announce the promotion of seven team members whose dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence continue to strengthen the company’s success and culture.
The following professionals have been promoted:
- David Rich to Senior Project Engineer from Project Engineer
- Jack Call to Senior Project Engineer from Project Engineer
- Johnny Read to Senior Project Engineer from Project Engineer
- Jovani Almeida to Project Engineer from Estimating Project Engineer
- Lucas Doerksen to Senior Project Engineer from Project Engineer
- Mattson Heidemann to Project Manager from Senior Project Engineer
- Thomas Partin to Senior Project Engineer from Project Engineer
For 35 years, Wespac Construction has built its reputation on strong relationships, exceptional service, and a commitment to delivering quality projects that help strengthen Arizona communities.
These promotions reflect the company’s continued investment in developing talent and recognizing individuals who embody Wespac’s core values of Builder, Driven, Excellence, and Integrity.
“Our growth has always started with great people,” said Glenn Leier, Wespac Vice President of Client Strategy & Vision. “These team members have consistently demonstrated leadership, dedication, and a commitment to delivering outstanding results for our clients and partners. Their promotions are well deserved, and we are proud to recognize their contributions as they help lead Wespac into the future.”
Wespac congratulates each of these employees on their accomplishments and looks forward to their continued success.
About Wespac
Established in 1991, Wespac Construction Inc. is a general contracting and construction management firm, offering pre-construction and construction services in various market sectors. From small tenant improvement projects to large shell and master-planned communities, Wespac is a true partner to our clients throughout the entire project lifecycle. We pursue the art of construction, while contributing knowledge, leadership, passion, and commitment to every employee, client, and project team. Wespac has offices in Phoenix and Flagstaff, Arizona. For more information visit www.wespacaz.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Sep 16, 2026 | News & Updates
The transition reflects a succession strategy ensuring continuity, stability, and ongoing development across the Southwest.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (Sept. 16, 2026) — Harvard Investments today announced a planned leadership transition that reflects the company’s long-term commitment to thoughtful succession, organizational stability, and continued growth. Tim Brislin today assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer and President; Craig Krumwiede, who has led the company as CEO and President since 1994, transitions to Executive Chairman.
As CEO and President, Brislin leads the company’s operations, investment activities, and development initiatives throughout the Southwestern U.S. As Executive Chairman, Krumwiede remains actively involved in shaping the company’s long-term vision, mentoring its leadership team, and providing strategic guidance on major initiatives and opportunities.
“This transition is the result of an intentional process that has been years in the making,” Krumwiede said. “I had the privilege of working alongside Tim for nearly two decades and watched him develop into an exceptional leader. He understands our culture, our passion for placemaking, and our responsibility to the communities we serve. I have complete confidence in his ability to lead Harvard Investments into its next chapter while remaining true to the values that have defined this company for generations.”
Krumwiede also expressed his gratitude to the Hill family, owners of Harvard Investments through the Hill Companies, for their support throughout his tenure. He credited their long-term vision, trust, and commitment to the organization as instrumental to Harvard’s growth and success.
“One of the greatest privileges of my career has been the opportunity to work alongside the Hill family. I had the honor of working with three generations of Hill leaders. Throughout that time, they have consistently demonstrated their commitment to Harvard Investments, its people, and its mission. I am deeply grateful for those relationships and confident that their stewardship and support will continue to serve Harvard well for generations to come,” Krumwiede said.
Brislin joined Harvard in 2007 and was promoted to President in 2023. During his tenure, he oversaw acquisitions, development strategy, funding, entitlements, construction, and growth initiatives across the company’s expanding portfolio.
Brislin played a key leadership role in the development of Harvard’s master-planned communities throughout Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico, the launch and growth of the company’s FirstStreet build-to-rent platform, and numerous strategic acquisitions. Most recently, he helped guide project teams in major master plans including Estrella and Solstice Foothills in Goodyear, Arizona.
“It is an incredible honor to assume the role of CEO of Harvard Investments. Much of what I know about leadership, vision, and stewardship comes from learning alongside Craig and Senior Vice President Chris Cacheris, and the exceptional team we built together. Harvard Investments is about more than real estate,” Brislin said. “We create places where families thrive, businesses grow, and communities endure.”
Brislin’s real estate career spans over 25 years, including nearly 20 with Harvard Investments. He is active in numerous industry and community organizations, including the Urban Land Institute, Valley Partnership as a Board Member and former Chair, Pinal Partnership, the National Association of Home Builders, the American Heart Association, and the Luke Air Force Base Honorary Commanders Program.
Krumwiede’s legacy at the firm spans more than four decades and includes overseeing the company’s transformation into one of the Southwest’s most respected real estate investment and development organizations. He has guided the company through multiple economic cycles while establishing a culture focused on long-term value creation, responsible development, and community building.
“What has always made Harvard special is our belief that great development begins with unique places and exceptional people,” Krumwiede said. “We don’t measure success by short-term results. We focus on creating enduring value for residents, businesses, partners, and communities. Looking back, I am incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished, and looking ahead, I am even more excited about what the next generation of leadership will achieve.”
Widely respected throughout the local and national industry, Krumwiede serves as an Urban Land Institute Governor, a mentor to emerging industry leaders, and a dedicated supporter of the Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business. Krumwiede is deeply involved in numerous civic and philanthropic organizations, including the C4 Foundation, which provides resources and support uniquely tailored to active-duty Navy SEALs and their families.
Krumwiede also played a leading role in advancing Arizona’s recently enacted “Ag to Urban” groundwater legislation, SB 1611, which established a framework for converting agricultural land to residential development while conserving water resources.
“I look forward to focusing on the long-term strategy of the company, supporting our leadership team, and advancing initiatives that strengthen Harvard, our industry, and the communities we serve,” Krumwiede added. “Arizona and the Southwest have provided tremendous opportunities for our company and our families over the years, and I remain deeply committed to helping ensure that the region’s future is every bit as strong as its past.”
“Every generation has the opportunity to build on the work of those who came before it. The foundation Craig and the Hill family built is extraordinary. The future of Harvard Investments is incredibly bright, and I am humbled and energized to help lead that journey,” Brislin said.
About Harvard Investments
Harvard Investments, Inc. is a real estate investment and development company with real estate holdings throughout the western United States. Harvard combines experience, integrity, and financial stability to create high-quality, environmentally sensitive, profitable communities including both large scale master planned communities and build-to-rent neighborhoods. Harvard’s Canadian parent, the Hill Companies, is a privately held diversified company involved in real estate development including construction and leasing of commercial office buildings and retail properties, oil and gas production and distribution, broadcasting, surety bonding, and insurance. The Hill Companies celebrated its 123rd year of continuous family ownership and operation in 2026. To learn more visit harvardinvestments.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Sep 16, 2026 | News & Updates
New North Phoenix development brings the specialty grocer’s operations, plus retail and restaurant space, and structured parking on a 7-acre site.
PHOENIX, Ariz. (Sept. 16, 2026) — Wespac Construction has completed the new Sprouts Farmers Market support office and flagship store at CityNorth in Phoenix, delivering a long-term home for one of Arizona’s most recognized public companies and adding a new public destination to the fast-growing North Phoenix district.
The project totals approximately 186,000 SF at 20555 N. 55th St., near the Loop 101 and 56th Street. It includes an approximately 145,000 SF corporate headquarters, a 25,000 SF flagship Sprouts store, 11,000 SF of retail and restaurant space, and a three-level parking structure.
The project gives Sprouts a long-term base for its corporate operations while opening a grocery and retail destination to the public. It brings workplace, wellness, food, and community together on a single site, and it reflects how major employers are now building headquarters that work for employees, customers, and the surrounding neighborhood at the same time.
“In touring the new headquarters, I was impressed by its reflection of the Sprouts Farmers Market culture, and Wespac Construction has delivered a project that captures the feel of a growing and modern Phoenix,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said. “By taking advantage of innovative construction processes with advanced materials, Wespac completed the project on an ambitious timeline and delivered Sprouts an HQ that combined the needs of a growing national business with modern design and spaces that fit our local community.”
The headquarters includes a multi-story atrium built to host company-wide meetings and events, an on-site PRESS Coffee location, a fitness center, culinary kitchens, a rooftop deck, and a community garden. Two additional retail buildings on the site will bring future dining and shopping options for team members, customers, and the community.
Architectural and construction elements include aluminum composite material panels, decorative masonry, expansive curtain wall glazing, standing seam metal roofing, and a precast concrete parking structure with integral color concrete, sandblasted finishes, and horizontal metal panel accents.
The project team included Sprouts Farmers Market, Trammell Crow Company, RSP Architects, Keyser, JLL, and Wespac Construction.
Sprouts Farmers Market is one of the largest and fastest growing specialty grocers in the United States. The Phoenix-based company employs approximately 36,000 team members and operates more than 490 stores in 25 states. The new development anchors its continued national growth from its home market.
About Wespac
Established in 1991, Wespac Construction Inc. is a general contracting and construction management firm, offering pre-construction and construction services in various market sectors. From small tenant improvement projects to large shell and master-planned communities, Wespac is a true partner to our clients throughout the entire project lifecycle. We pursue the art of construction, while contributing knowledge, leadership, passion, and commitment to every employee, client, and project team. Wespac has offices in Phoenix and Flagstaff, Arizona. For more information visit www.wespacaz.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Sep 15, 2026 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, Ariz. (September 15, 2026) – For 50 years, the Knipp name has been a recognizable presence in the construction industry, building a reputation grounded in credibility, professionalism, and long-term relationships.
Wally Knipp, CEO and Principal, is precise about what the milestone covers. The 50 years belong to the Knipp name in construction, not to Knipp Contracting, which he started in 2009.
“The Knipp name has been representative in the construction industry for five decades,” Knipp said. “What I want people to take away is that when the Knipp name is on something, somebody is accountable for it.”
The roots trace back to Wally’s father, Michael R. Knipp, who built Knipp Brothers in the 1970s with his brothers Larry and Ed. Over the decades, the Knipp name expanded its services, adapted to changing markets, and developed expertise across multiple sectors of the construction industry.
The significance of five decades of the Knipp name in construction? The family kept finding a way through; three brothers started something in the 70s; the Valley grew up around them; they built houses when that’s what the market wanted. Then they found work with investors when the housing market slumped. Now it’s senior living and school renovations. That’s where the need is.
According to Knipp, one of the most significant achievements has been the ability to evolve alongside the industry.
Wally Knipp
“We’ve adapted to the needs within the construction industry,” he said. “Whether it was production homebuilding, general contracting, or expanding into markets across the country, adaptability has been critical.”
The sharpest test came in 2008. The family business served institutional investors through the housing recession, and in 2009, at the bottom of the market, Wally Knipp started Knipp Contracting at a kitchen table.
“We were conservative when it was boring to be conservative,” he said. “That’s the only reason the name made it through the bad markets in one piece.”
Over the years, the construction industry itself has undergone dramatic changes. Knipp points to labor challenges and global supply chain pressures as among the biggest shifts.
“We’ve gone from having a surplus of experienced labor to a significant shortage,” he said. “At the same time, pricing, availability of materials, and global events have had a major impact on construction.”
Throughout those changes, the Knipp name has focused on identifying emerging opportunities and positioning itself for long-term success. Whether entering new geographic markets, serving institutional investors during the housing recession, or expanding into growing sectors such as senior living and commercial tenant improvement, the company has continually looked for ways to evolve.
“We’ve always tried to keep an eye on where the market is going and trust our instincts when it’s time to pivot,” Knipp said.
Central to that success is a set of core values represented by the acronym KNIPP, which serves as the foundation of the company’s culture and decision-making process.
“For us, these aren’t marketing buzzwords,” Knipp explained. “They’re the compass we use to make decisions and evaluate whether we’re moving in the right direction. Those values have been part of who we are for years. They’ve helped shape our culture and contributed to the longevity of the Knipp name in construction.”
Looking ahead, Knipp is optimistic about the future, particularly with growth opportunities in Arizona including senior living developments, retail and restaurant construction, schools and community facilities, clubhouses, and strategic partnerships that continue to expand the company’s reach.
He points to the rapid growth of the Metro Phoenix market and the company’s longstanding relationship with Shea Homes as opportunities that position it for continued success. While much has changed over the past five decades, Knipp said he believes the foundation remains the same.
“It’s about preserving the reputation, continuing to adapt and creating opportunities for the next generation,” he said. “That’s what the Knipp name has stood for over the last 50 years, and that’s what it will continue to stand for in the future.”
Shea Homes corporate offices at Gainey Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona.
About Knipp Enterprises
Knipp Enterprises is a commercial general contractor specializing in tenant improvements, capital renovations, and site upgrades across worship, educational, restaurant, commercial, and senior living sectors throughout the Western U.S. Knipp Contracting is a sister company under Knipp Enterprises. Known for direct site oversight and schedule control, Knipp Contracting delivers tailored construction solutions built to perform. For more information on Knipp Contracting’s services or to inquire about upcoming commercial and institutional projects, visit knippcontracting.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Sep 15, 2026 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZ. (September 15, 2026) – Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation (AEF) is celebrating 50 years in business in 2026, marking five decades of specialized commercial and business escrow service while looking ahead to continued growth in Arizona and beyond.
Founded in 1976, the woman-owned company has grown alongside Arizona’s business community while remaining independently owned and focused exclusively on escrow. Today, AEF works with business owners, brokers, attorneys, lenders and companies across Arizona, the U.S. and internationally.
The anniversary year has also brought several notable milestones for AEF and its leadership.
AEF recently became an Arizona Cardinals Small Business Partner, connecting the company with one of Arizona’s most recognized organizations and expanding its visibility throughout the state.
The company has also been named a 2026 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics finalist. BBB’s highest honor recognizes businesses for excellence in leadership, workplace culture, customer care and community impact. The competition includes businesses throughout Greater Arizona, San Diego County and Orange County, with the winner to be announced November 19, 2026.
AEF President Annette Anderson was named one of AZRE magazine’s Most Influential Women in Real Estate for 2026, following CEO Monica May-Dunn, who received the recognition in 2024.
May-Dunn was also named a Top 10 finalist for the 2026 NAWBO National Woman Business Owner of the Year Award, recognized during NAWBO Days in Washington, D.C. on May 31.
“Reaching 50 years gives us an opportunity to appreciate the people and relationships that built this company, but we’re equally focused on what comes next,” May-Dunn said. “We want to continue growing without losing the personal service, independence and expertise that have defined AEF for five decades.”
AEF’s plans for its next chapter include exploring opportunities for national expansion while maintaining its Arizona roots and continuing to modernize the escrow experience. The company is investing in technology that can improve efficiency, transaction visibility, document exchange and communication, while keeping personal relationships at the center of its service.
As AEF celebrates its golden anniversary, its direction remains true to the principles that have carried the company through its first 50 years: specialized expertise, personal attention and a commitment to getting the details right.
“Fifty years in business is more than a milestone; it is a reflection of the trust our customers, employees, partners, and communities have placed in us over five decades,” Anderson said. “We are incredibly proud of the legacy we have built together and grateful to the generations of people who have contributed to our success. As we celebrate where we’ve been, we remain focused on the future and the opportunities ahead. The best chapters of our story are still being written.”
About Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation
Founded in 1976 by Donald E. Graham, Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation is Arizona’s largest independent escrow provider, specializing in business sales, personal property, and commercial real estate transactions. Its customer base includes individuals, businesses, business and real estate brokers, law firms, commercial and SBA lenders, banks, major corporations, tribal communities, state and municipal government organizations and departments, internet entities, and other parties requiring an experienced and professional escrow company. Under the leadership of CEO Monica May-Dunn since 2023, Arizona Escrow & Financial remains committed to personalized service, instilling confidence in clients, and setting the standard for excellence in the escrow industry. For more information visit arizonaescrow.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Sep 11, 2026 | News & Updates
GOODYEAR, Ariz. (Sept. 11, 2026) – Harvard Investments announced that D.R. Horton has acquired the final residential lots at Lucero, the newest village within Estrella, purchasing 232 homesites on approximately 90 acres.
The transaction completes residential lot sales in Lucero and marks another significant milestone in the continued growth of the award-winning master-planned community. The acquisition further strengthens D.R. Horton’s presence in the West Valley and reflects sustained demand for new housing opportunities in one of Arizona’s fastest-growing regions.
D.R. Horton officials anticipate opening model homes and offering homeownership opportunities in fall 2027. The neighborhoods will feature a variety of single-story and two-story homes with diverse floor plans ranging from approximately 1,300 to 2,400 square feet, designed to accommodate a wide range of homeowner needs and preferences. D.R. Horton has previously developed at the Village of Lucero.
“With the purchase of the final residential lots by D.R. Horton, we are seeing years of planning and investment come to fruition as Lucero attracts leading homebuilders and homebuyers seeking a place to call home and an exceptional lifestyle within Estrella,” said Roger Theis, Vice President of Harvard Communities.
The Village of Lucero is located near the entrance to Estrella and includes the Welcome Center and Café Bebida. Also within the village is Ladera Park, a neighborhood park featuring a playground, gathering spaces, restrooms, a splash pad, and shaded play area.
“The Estrella master-planned community, with its scenic desert backdrops, offers schools, shopping, recreation, and more,” said Taylor Mize, Vice President of City Operations – Phoenix West, with D.R. Horton. “And Lucero Village has access to it all. This makes Lucero at Estrella so appealing. The location benefits are a unique aspect.”
Bret Rinehart, Ryan Semro, Ben Heglie, Greg Vogel, Wes Campbell, and Max Xander with the Phoenix office of Land Advisors Organization facilitated the deal on behalf of the seller and the buyer.
Home to more than 8,700 families, Estrella is a 20,000-acre mixed-use master-planned community located in Goodyear. Estrella’s 500-plus acres of open space include more than 50 parks and 65 miles of paths and trails, plus 72 acres of lakes for kayaking, sailing, and catch-and-release fishing. The community includes resident community centers, fitness centers, a community yacht club and a public Championship golf course: The Golf Club at Estrella. Värde Partners, Toll Brothers, and Harvard Investments own Estrella in a joint venture.
About Harvard Investments
Harvard Investments, Inc. is a real estate investment and development company with real estate holdings throughout the western United States. Harvard combines experience, integrity, and financial stability to create high-quality, environmentally sensitive, profitable communities including both large scale master planned communities and build-to-rent neighborhoods. Harvard’s Canadian parent, the Hill Companies, is a privately held diversified company involved in real estate development including construction and leasing of commercial office buildings and retail properties, oil and gas production and distribution, broadcasting, surety bonding, and insurance. The Hill Companies celebrated its 123rd year of continuous family ownership and operation in 2026. To learn more, visit harvardinvestments.com.
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