Valley environmental attorney Michelle De Blasi marks 5 years of legal excellence, industry honors

Valley environmental attorney Michelle De Blasi marks 5 years of legal excellence, industry honors

News & Updates

by | May 8, 2025 | News & Updates

     SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ.  (May 8, 2025) – Trailblazing environmental, natural resources, and energy attorney Michelle De Blasi is marking a major milestone by celebrating her firm’s fifth anniversary, while also celebrating a series of prestigious achievements and industry recognitions that underscore her impact and expertise.

The Law Office of Michelle De Blasi was founded on May 1, 2020. De Blasi focuses on business strategy by helping clients in a broad array of industries complete their projects from start to finish, overseeing all aspects of permitting, while assessing business risks and hitting milestones on time and on budget.

De Blasi possesses decades of experience assisting clients with obtaining successful results with their environmental, natural resource, and energy projects. She has led numerous large-scale, complex environmental remediation enforcement and brownfield cases, and has completed environmental compliance, due diligence, and permitting for some of the largest industrial facilities under development in the Valley.

De Blasi holds a strong belief that success is best measured by making a positive difference in the lives of others. She is proud of the legacy she is building in partnership with Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law Mentorship Initiative for Sustainability Law (MISL).

This year the program celebrated its 10th anniversary of linking experienced attorneys with law students studying within the Program on Law and Sustainability. As a mentor to the next generation of women attorneys, De Blasi advises students and young attorneys on how to find their purpose and passion in the practice of law.

“The MISL program was created to offer opportunities for lawyers to provide one-on-one professional guidance and to share practical knowledge and skills with second- and third-year law students, which offers career advice and opens doors to a professional network,” De Blasi said. “I’m very grateful and honored to have helped grow the MISL program to assist a decade of students in finding their footing in the competitive fields of environmental, energy and water law, and to see some of those former mentees pay it forward by becoming mentors.”

“Michelle has been a vital part of ASU’s MISL program since its inception more than a decade ago,” said Professor Troy Rule, the Joseph Feller Memorial Chair in Law and Sustainability and Faculty Director of the Law and Sustainability Program at ASU Law.  “The program could never have involved so many attorneys and served so many law students without her. Dozens of young environmental and energy lawyers across the Valley have benefited from Michelle’s leadership and generosity.”

Recognizing a need to support women entering the legal industry, De Blasi established The Women’s Professional Power Scholarship at ASU’s law school in 2021.

“The scholarship endowment is awarded each year for 5 years to provide need-based educational scholarship funds to women law students entering the legal field,” De Blasi said.  “The scholarship is one additional opportunity where I can support women entering the legal industry.”

When she launched her firm five years ago, De Blasi already had a successful practice built on her decades of experience and relationships assisting clients obtain successful results with their environmental, natural resource, and energy projects. She brought many years of government and “Big Law” experience to her own firm to provide more effective client service at a lower cost.

“The legal market continues to change, and I’m fortunate to be able to provide my clients, who have some of the world’s most complex environmental and energy matters, with more efficient and focused legal services and strategic partnerships,” she said. “My practice has also been strengthened by the ability to partner with many different law firms of all sizes who do not have counsel with my areas of expertise.”

De Blasi advises clients on state and federal environmental regulatory levels with her depth of knowledge in a wide array of environmental and natural resource law issues.  Throughout her many years of experience on the energy side of her practice, De Blasi has advised clients on due diligence, permitting, siting, and contractual agreements for energy generation projects, both traditional and alternative energy, as well as carbon emissions tracking and reporting.

With the vast amount of industrial growth in Arizona, De Blasi has been at the center of trying to solve the energy constraint issues, which has proved to be invaluable to assist her numerous clients with their projects, whether they are utilizing the energy or generating it.  De Blasi is a frequent author and speaker on environmental and energy issues.  She also hosts the annual Southwest Energy Conference, which brings together energy industry experts from the Southwest region to address the many challenges and opportunities facing the energy market.

De Blasi is celebrating her 14th year as the Executive Director of the Arizona Energy Consortium (AEC), a non-profit trade organization that connects energy industry leaders and provides a clear, credible voice for Arizona’s growing energy industry. Under De Blasi’s leadership, the AEC has helped achieve increased development for Arizona and the greater Southwest region by supporting a diverse energy mix, a strong base of manufacturing facilities, an increase in higher-wage jobs, and world-class research institutions.

“Michelle has done a phenomenal job at leading on topics important to the industry,” said Chairman Kevin Thompson of the Arizona Corporation Commission. “Her willingness to push the envelope on addressing the energy needs of large users has made her a champion for Arizona’s economic vitality. I’m happy to lend my support to Michelle as she strives to be part of the solution.”

For more than a decade, De Blasi has been recognized for her excellence in providing legal services in the environmental and energy legal fields in Chambers USA®, Best Lawyers in America®, Southwest Super Lawyers® and as an Environmental Law Business Leader in AzBusiness Magazine®.

In addition to her roles as founder of the AEC, MISL program and Women’s Professional Power Scholarship, De Blasi is also active in other industry organizations, including serving as a Board member and past president of the Phoenix Parks Foundation; Member of the Arizona State University Council on Law and Sustainability Studies (CLASS); Member of the Grand Canyon University Colangelo College of Business Advisory Board; and Member of the Drylands Alliance for Addressing Water Needs (DAAWN) Board of Directors.

For more information visit mdb-law.com.

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by May 08, 2025
LEED-certified Wespac Construction industrial development in Glendale reaches milestone

LEED-certified Wespac Construction industrial development in Glendale reaches milestone

News & Updates

by | May 7, 2025 | News & Updates

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – Wespac Construction, Inc. is proud to announce the successful completion of Marbella Northern Parkway Phase 1, a LEED-certified project and the first step in a six-building, 51-acre industrial park master-planned for Northern Parkway and Dysart Road in Glendale, Arizona.

Developed by Panattoni Development Company and designed by Ware Malcomb, this transformative project delivers 445,000 SF of high-quality industrial space across three tilt-panel buildings.

Each building features two prominent storefront entrances and a north-facing spec suite, designed with architectural flair. Elements like ACM eyebrow accents and wall wash lighting at entrances create a dynamic visual identity, making entry points distinct and inviting. The docking sides are fully outfitted with automatic ramp-up doors, dock doors with mechanical levelers, and designated semi-truck parking for optimal logistics functionality.

The interiors blend industrial efficiency with elevated aesthetics. Finished with solid core walnut doors framed in matte black, the spaces also feature modern touches like tile backsplashes and restroom accent tile. LVT oak planks stretch through open office areas, complemented by plastic laminate millwork with quartz countertops and discreetly placed concealed sprinkler heads.

Strategically located on a Maricopa County Island, Phase 1 posed unique geotechnical challenges due to its position on a large fissure zone. Overcoming these complexities required extensive over-excavation and comprehensive water mitigation efforts, including the use of filter fabric and geo-grid, caulking at all PCCP joints, and site-wide stabilization measures beneath asphalt and wet utilities.

“We are thrilled to deliver this first phase of what promises to be a premier industrial hub in the West Valley,” said Matt McPherron, Wespac Senior Project Manager. “This project really shows off what can happen when innovation, sustainability, and teamwork come together, and it’s just the beginning of what’s ahead in the next phases.”

Marbella Northern Parkway Phase 1 demonstrates the potential for high-functioning, aesthetically driven industrial development in the greater Phoenix metro, with Phase 2 and beyond set to continue raising the bar.

About Wespac

Established in 1991, Wespac Construction Inc. is a general contracting and construction management firm, offering preconstruction and construction services in a variety of 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. www.wespacaz.com

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by May 07, 2025
Southwest Heritage Bank marks 1-year anniversary with ribbon-cutting ceremony

Southwest Heritage Bank marks 1-year anniversary with ribbon-cutting ceremony

News & Updates

by | May 6, 2025 | News & Updates

      SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ.  (May 6, 2025) – Southwest Heritage Bank commemorated its 1-year anniversary with a celebratory ribbon-cutting event, emphasizing its commitment to serving small businesses and fostering economic growth in the region.

The event at the bank’s 16435 N. Scottsdale Road, location brought together business leaders, members of the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce, and community members to recognize the bank’s role in supporting local entrepreneurs and strengthening Scottsdale’s financial landscape.

Mark Stanton, President and CEO of the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the significance of Southwest Heritage Bank’s mission.

“The chamber thrives on small businesses; it thrives on connectivity. This bank is a testament to how important a small business is to helping build the economy,” Stanton said. “May is Small Business Month. How appropriate it is here today that we celebrate a bank that specializes in small businesses – an important sector of the economy. The best part of an organization like this is that customers have a person who knows them, and cares about their business, their risks, and helping build a quality of life in Scottsdale.”

Chris Webster, President of Southwest Heritage Bank, reflected on the bank’s journey and its strong foundation in the community.

“Southwest Heritage Bank is a product of a merger of two great Arizona community banks, Commerce Bank of Arizona and Bank 34. The combined banks are now one community bank, still serving the needs of Arizona based businesses,” Webster said. “We are the same great people – providing the same great service. As the second largest bank headquartered in Arizona with just under $1 billion in total assets. We are committed to helping small businesses grow and prosper in the communities where we live, work, and play.”

In early 2024, Commerce Bank of Arizona joined forces with Bank 34, a well-established community bank with a 90-year history in New Mexico. To reflect their shared heritage and growing presence in Arizona and New Mexico, the newly unified institution adopted the name Southwest Heritage Bank, paying tribute to the legacy of both banks in the Southwest.

Southwest Heritage Bank, a member of the FDIC, has two offices in Scottsdale and branches in Alamogordo and Las Cruces, New Mexico; and Gilbert, Oro Valley, Tucson, and Green Valley, Arizona.

“We offer customized banking solutions to businesses in Arizona and New Mexico using a concierge service approach,” Webster said. “We’re proud to be headquartered in Scottsdale and we are proud to partner with the Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce, one of the most well-known legacy business organizations in Scottsdale.”

Southwest Heritage Bank specializes in business banking insured depository services including Treasury Management products. The bank also offers government guaranteed loans for new businesses along with competitive rates for a wide range of business needs such as commercial real estate purchase, construction, business acquisition, equipment financing, and working capital to name a few.

“Southwest Heritage Bank’s one-year post-merger anniversary marks a significant milestone in our continued commitment to small businesses across Arizona and New Mexico,” said Christina Heide, Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer. “This celebration recognizes the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our communities forward. We remain dedicated to providing personalized financial solutions that empower local business owners to succeed.

“As a community bank, we take pride in fostering strong relationships, understanding our customers’ unique needs, and contributing to the economic vitality of the regions we serve. We are also proud that a local business publication ranked us No. 1 as the fastest growing commercial lender (banks) in the Valley and No. 3 among Phoenix-area banks with the fastest growing deposits,” Heide added.

For more information visit swhbank.com.

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by May 06, 2025
NAI Horizon facilitates the sale of historic Skyline Church property in Tempe, paving the way for restoration, conservation, and adaptive reuse

NAI Horizon facilitates the sale of historic Skyline Church property in Tempe, paving the way for restoration, conservation, and adaptive reuse

News & Updates

by | Apr 30, 2025 | News & Updates

     PHOENIX, ARIZ. (April 30, 2025) – In a commercial real estate landscape where redevelopment often means demolition, the sale of Skyline Church at 1101 S. Hardy Drive in Tempe, Arizona, stands out as a rare example of thoughtful restoration and conservation.

Senior Vice President Thomas Smith with NAI Horizon’s Church Realty Solutions team represented Skyline Church Inc., a California-based non-profit religious corporation, in the $1.11 million sale of the 4,467 SF, two-building property to Amy Beaumont, Larry Beaumont, and Julia Beth Beaumont, Trustees of the Beaumont Family Trust.

Rather than razing the mid-20th century structure to make way for high-density apartments, the buyers have committed to preserving and repurposing key elements of the original chapel. From the intricately detailed ceiling to salvaged architectural features, the Beaumonts plan to integrate these materials into a unique residential conversion that respects the church’s history while contributing to Tempe’s evolving neighborhood fabric. Additionally, plans include the creation of a new residence on the former parking lot parcel and a restoration of the former parsonage, further reinforcing a vision of mindful urban renewal.

This approach highlights a growing trend toward adaptive reuse in a market where traditional redevelopment often meets resistance. By choosing restoration over demolition, the new owners are setting an inspiring precedent for sustainable housing solutions that celebrate the past while meeting contemporary residential needs.

      It’s quite a family affair, Smith explained. Larry Beaumont built custom homes in Rocky Point, Mexico, while the family was growing up. Now, a majority of the family – including twin sisters – will live on the same street in Tempe.

“After refurbishing the parsonage, the parents will move into it. Dad will support Amy where needed with Amy leading the two projects and assisting her father on the parsonage conversion remodel. The other daughter also lives on the same street in Tempe,” Smith said. “The family lived for many years in Mexico where the daughter (Amy Beaumont) learned about the importance of not wasting anything useful. She is a graduate of Arizona State University’s School of Architecture; she will use those skills to help transform the project.”

Smith said the seller had offers from other churches, but nothing came of them. Then the Beaumonts called, wanting to tour the property. They toured the two buildings, and discovered there was a third parcel – the parking lot.

Amy Beaumont envisions converting the chapel to an energy-efficient home, while also incorporating key features into the exterior design of her future home.

“The plan is to build a new home in the parking lot. And rather than scrape the parsonage house, the Beaumonts will restore it and reuse building materials on the site,” Smith said. “Traditional development on church property is to scrape and build high-density housing. That’s not happening here. The new owners are creating three residential housing units that are environmentally sensitive by using reclaimed materials. “The interior roof design and infrastructure exposed aged timber beams secured with classic heavy bolt placements.”

The property was once home to Tempe Wesleyan Church a New Beginnings in Christ Wesleyan Church.

 About NAI Horizon

Exceptional global commercial real estate solutions begin with local market leadership and expertise. Established in 1992, NAI Horizon is a full-service commercial real estate company serving Arizona with offices in Phoenix and Tucson. NAI Horizon is passionate about commercial real estate, providing Brokerage and Property Management Services for local, national, and international clients. NAI Horizon is a member of the NAI Global commercial real estate network providing real estate solutions to more than 325 offices worldwide. For more information, visit www.naihorizon.com.

About NAI Global

 Advisory Services, Leasing, Property Management, Property & Note Sales, and Tenant Representation

NAI Global is a leading global commercial real estate brokerage firm. NAI Global offices are leaders in their local markets and work in unison to provide clients with exceptional solutions to their commercial real estate needs. NAI Global has more than 325 offices strategically located in 65 countries throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa and Asia Pacific, with over 5,800 local market professionals, managing in excess of 1.1 billion square feet of property and facilities. Annually, NAI Global completes in excess of $20 billion in commercial real estate transactions throughout the world.

NAI Global provides a complete range of corporate and institutional real estate services, including brokerage and leasing, property and facilities management, real estate investment and capital market services, due diligence, global supply chain and logistics consulting and related advisory services. To learn more, visit www.naiglobal.com.

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by Apr 30, 2025
Compass Church breaks ground on new CCBG Architects-designed worship facility in Goodyear

Compass Church breaks ground on new CCBG Architects-designed worship facility in Goodyear

News & Updates

by | Apr 29, 2025 | News & Updates

     GOODYEAR, ARIZ.  (April 29, 2025) – Compass Church joyfully announces the groundbreaking of its state-of-the-art facility in Goodyear, Arizona, a significant step forward in its mission to guide individuals toward a deeper connection with God.

This past Sunday, on a sunny spring afternoon, Lead Pastor Ronn Smith, alongside church leaders and community members, celebrated this pivotal moment at 16060 W. Van Buren St.

Member of the Compass Church community take part in the ceremonial turning of the first shovel of dirt.

Phoenix-based CCBG Architects, Inc. designed the 18,000 SF, $6.7 million facility. It includes new worship space, religion classrooms, expanded parking, and site field and landscape development. The single-story facility is scheduled to open in April 2026.

The design creates a new central heart to the existing campus while incorporating the existing structures into a new architecture reflecting the spiritual growth of the growing congregation, said Paul Ladensack, Principal, CCBG Architecture. The architecture incorporates a new, 800-seat worship space that provides a seamless connection to transformed existing buildings that creates a balanced composition and new entry symmetry for future growth. A tower is incorporated with a cross that signals entry and a welcome gesture to Van Buren Street to the south.

“CCBG Architects is honored to bring its deep knowledge and passion for church design to this meaningful project, which will serve as a cornerstone for the Compass Church community in the thriving West Valley,” Ladensack said. “With decades of experience in creating inspiring and functional spaces, CCBG is dedicated to crafting environments that foster connection, worship, and community growth.”

Working with a design team and contractor was a new experience for Compass Church, Pastor Smith explained.

“CCGB Architects was so helpful in every step of the way; we have never done this before,” Pastor Smith said. “They gently helped us walk through the entire process. They gave us great ideas and great thoughts on where to go with the design. We are very thankful for that. Our goal is to have this facility built in a year and start to use our new auditorium.”

The new facility is part of Compass Church’s “Gaining Ground” initiative, a two-year vision adventure aimed at expanding the church’s reach and impact in the West Valley. The project includes the construction of a new auditorium, lobby, and children’s classrooms on the church’s 10-acre property.

“We are thrilled to take this next step in our journey,” Pastor Smith said. “This new facility will provide a space where our community can experience God’s love and grow in their faith. We are grateful for the support of our congregation and the community as we embark on this exciting new chapter.”

The “Gaining Ground” initiative has already garnered significant support, with more than $7 million committed to the project.

“The church is trusting God to provide the necessary resources to complete the construction and continue its mission of loving and serving the community,” Pastor Smith said.

The general contractor was MTV General Contractors, Inc. Notable subcontractors on the project include AV Schwann, structural engineer; Peterson Associates, MPE engineer; and Kaeko Engineering, civil engineering.

 

About CCBG Architects, Inc.

 CCBG Architects, Inc., has been in continuous practice since 1955. Its portfolio includes multifamily, adaptive reuse, religious, urban infill, movie theatres, and various commercial project types. It has offices in Phoenix, Arizona, and San Diego, California. The firm is committed to the highest level of design and client satisfaction. It provides design, planning, construction administration and interior design services. CCBG has an atmosphere supportive of the pursuit of design excellence. As collaborative designers, CCBG architects strive for clear contributions to client success through a combination of service and innovative design solutions. For more information, visit www.ccbgarchitects.com.

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by Apr 29, 2025
Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation expands team and services ahead of its 50th anniversary

Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation expands team and services ahead of its 50th anniversary

News & Updates

by | Apr 28, 2025 | News & Updates

     PHOENIX, ARIZ.  (April 28, 2025) – As Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation approaches its golden anniversary in 2026, the woman-owned firm continues to expand, cementing its position as Arizona’s largest independent escrow provider.

This year marks another milestone of growth and innovation as the company welcomes four new employees, enhancing its commitment to delivering exceptional escrow services statewide and beyond.

Established in 1976, Arizona Escrow & Financial has built a stellar reputation for transparency, integrity, and customer satisfaction, boasting an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Initially focused on serving Arizona’s business community, the firm has diversified to oversee complex business sales, commercial real estate transactions, and personal property escrows, offering unparalleled expertise and efficiency in every transaction.

“We are proud of the trust our clients place in us,” said Monica May-Dunn, CEO. “Our team’s 104 years of combined experience means we’re prepared for even the most intricate transactions. We believe in going above and beyond to ensure a seamless escrow process.”

The new hires bring the team to a total of nine professionals, including May-Dunn and President Annette Anderson. This growth sets the stage for the firm’s upcoming addition of account servicing and seller carryback financing, further expanding its range of specialized escrow services.

Arizona Escrow & Financial serves as a neutral third party, ensuring all contractual obligations are met while efficiently managing the closing process. They provide specialized escrow services to safeguard all parties involved and facilitate smooth transactions. Key services include:

  • Settlement and litigation escrows: Managing funds during legal disputes.
  • Holding and disbursement escrows: Holding documents and/or funds until such time as agreement terms are met.
  • State and county UCC/lien searches: Conducting official searches for liens.
  • Business/personal property transactions: Supporting sales of personal and business assets.
  • Stock and membership interest sales: The transfer of corporate stock or Limited Liability Membership interests.
  • Commercial real property sales: Facilitating real estate sales.
  • Escrow for M&A transactions: Managing complex business purchases, including Holdback Escrows and Good Faith Deposits.

Arizona Escrow & Financial tailors its services for various clients, such as real estate agents, brokers, buyers, sellers, attorneys, lenders, investors, and fiduciaries, focusing on transparency and risk reduction for complex transactions. Its expertise spans both real estate and business-related escrows.

“As anticipation builds for our 50th anniversary, we look forward to celebrating decades of excellence while embracing opportunities for continued innovation and growth,” Anderson said. “With a collaborative team at the core of our business, we remain steadfast in our mission to reduce risk, inspire trust, and serve as a reliable partner in every transaction.”

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 Apr 28, 2025
NAIOP Arizona honors Mike Haenel of Cushman & Wakefield with 2025 Award of Excellence

NAIOP Arizona honors Mike Haenel of Cushman & Wakefield with 2025 Award of Excellence

News & Updates

by | Apr 23, 2025 | News & Updates

PHOENIX, Ariz. (April 23, 2025) – Mike Haenel, an Executive Vice Chair with Cushman & Wakefield in Phoenix, has been named NAIOP Arizona’s 2025 Award of Excellence recipient.

The award will be presented at the Best of NAIOP awards ceremony on May 1 at the Arizona Financial Theatre. The event will also celebrate Best of NAIOP’s own 30 incredible years of excellence in commercial real estate.

The NAIOP Arizona Award of Excellence recognizes individuals who have made a significant and positive impact on the commercial real estate industry in Arizona over a period of at least 15 years, along with direct contributions to the chapter.

The Arizona Chapter of NAIOP is among the largest of the 53 chapters, with over 1,000 individual members representing around 450 companies. NAIOP Arizona provides unparalleled industry networking and education, and advocates for effective legislation on behalf of its members.

“On behalf of the NAIOP Arizona Board, our members and staff, we’re thrilled to honor Cushman & Wakefield’s Mike Haenel as our 2025 Award of Excellence recipient.  A Vice Chair and Member of one of Cushman & Wakefield’s most productive teams, Mike’s resume of projects has transformed Greater Phoenix,” said NAIOP Arizona Chair Phil Breidenbach, SIOR with Colliers.

“Also impressive is his leadership as a former NAIOP Chair, and with many other professional organizations and charities. Of all Mike’s accolades, he is most respected for the deep personal relationships he has with so many of us.  Mike has changed lives in our community. We are grateful for both his friendship as well as his leadership,” Breidenbach said.”

Haenel has more than 40 years of experience in the sale and leasing of industrial/back-office buildings and land throughout Arizona. Haenel and his business partners, Andy Markham, Will Strong, and Phil Haenel of Cushman & Wakefield, specialize in the acquisition, disposition, and leasing of industrial real estate, servicing the needs of corporate, institutional, and entrepreneurial owners/users in Arizona and other markets.

“I am humbled in receiving this honor from NAIOP Arizona. NAIOP is an organization that provides a tremendous platform for committed members in the region and across the world to work more closely together toward the greater good of the commercial real estate industry, our business, and as people. I am very proud to be a longstanding member of NAIOP,” Mike Haenel said.

“I am grateful for all the wonderful relationships that I have made throughout the past 40 years in the commercial real estate industry and the Valley of the Sun. I have been helped by so many! A special thank you to my family, Cushman & Wakefield, our entire team, clients, colleagues and all those that have helped make a difference in our community,” he added.

Mike Haenel is deeply connected to his community and grateful to be able to give back. He is a member of The Thunderbirds and actively involved with St. Mary’s Food Bank and St. Vincent de Paul. He also takes pride in his past involvement at Barrow Neurological Institute, Brophy College Preparatory and Xavier College Preparatory.

About Cushman & Wakefield 


Cushman & Wakefield (NYSE: CWK) is a leading global commercial real estate services firm for property owners and occupiers with approximately 52,000 employees in nearly 400 offices and 60 countries. In 2024, the firm reported revenue of $9.4 billion across its core service lines of Services, Leasing, Capital markets, and Valuation and other. Built around the belief that Better never settles, the firm receives numerous industry and business accolades for its award-winning culture. For additional information, visit www.cushmanwakefield.com.

About NAIOP

NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association, is the leading organization for developers, owners and related professionals in office, industrial, retail, multifamily and mixed-use real estate. NAIOP comprises over 21,000 members in North America. The Arizona Chapter is among the largest in the bi-national network with over 1,100 members. For more information, visit naiop.org or naiopaz.org.

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by Apr 23, 2025
AEC Growth Summit to ignite industry innovation, collaboration May 8 at Arizona Center in Phoenix

AEC Growth Summit to ignite industry innovation, collaboration May 8 at Arizona Center in Phoenix

News & Updates

by | Apr 22, 2025 | News & Updates

      PHOENIX, Ariz. (April 22, 2025) – Get ready for a game-changing gathering that’s redefining the future of the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries.

The AEC Growth Summit, one of the most eagerly awaited industry events of the year, will ignite Downtown Phoenix on Wednesday, May 8, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Arizona Center, 455 N. 3rd St. This powerhouse summit unites trailblazing leaders, visionary innovators, and bold changemakers, all set to shape the next era of AEC excellence.

      Hosted by four thriving construction industry support firms in IT/Cybersecurity, Business Development, Finance, and Marketing, the AEC Growth Summit will spotlight the rapidly evolving landscape of these four cornerstone departments and their functions. It features dynamic speakers, interactive panels, and curated networking experiences. This one-day summit is designed to inspire new ideas, foster strategic partnerships, and drive growth across the AEC ecosystem in Arizona and beyond.

      “The AEC Growth Summit is more than just an event – it’s a platform for forward-thinking professionals to connect, collaborate, and chart the future of our industries,” said Justin Neagle, Chief Storyteller at Spot Migration. “Arizona is experiencing record growth, and this summit will provide the insights and tools needed to scale sustainably and successfully.”

      Summit highlights include six interactive sessions covering IT and Cybersecurity, M&A, Business Development, Finance, and Marketing with emerging technologies/best practice evolution for AEC. Featured speakers:

There will also be panel discussions with regional experts on navigating challenges in mergers and acquisitions, business development, marketing planning, and cybersecurity for large fleets and remote teams.

Sponsors include Corporate Interior Systems, Danson Construction, Code Buddy, FFKR Architecture, FSJ Tactical, Bidtracer, to name a few. A networking happy hour on the 11th floor of Arizona Center’s vibrant mixed-use space is sponsored by Modern Business Development and Cherry Coatings.

The summit is expected to draw more than 100 construction firm owners from across the state, including architects, engineers, contractors, developers, urban planners, and technology providers.

Registration is open at aec-growth-summit.com; early-bird rates apply through April 30.         For more information, media inquiries, or sponsorship opportunities, contact Neagle at justinn@spotmigration.com.

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by Apr 22, 2025
Breana Quesada promoted to Environmental Group Manager at Terracon’s Tucson office

Breana Quesada promoted to Environmental Group Manager at Terracon’s Tucson office

News & Updates

by | Apr 21, 2025 | News & Updates

TUCSON, ARIZ. (April 21, 2025) – Terracon is proud to announce the promotion of Breana Quesada to Environmental Group Manager in the firm’s Tucson office.

Quesada, who has been with Terracon for almost four years, was promoted from Senior Staff Scientist. In her new role, she will manage a wide variety and size of environmental projects and a small group of environmental staff.

“Congratulations to Breana on her well-deserved promotion. Her dedication, expertise, and leadership have been truly inspiring. We look forward to seeing the incredible impact she’ll continue to make in this new role,” said Derek D. Koller, Senior Principal and Tucson Office Manager.

A native of Tucson, Quesada earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from the University of Arizona. She is active in the Southern Arizona CCIM Chapter, Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW), the Southern Arizona Environmental Management Society (SAEMS), and Urban Land Institute (ULI), and completed the Metropolitan Pima Alliance (MPA) Emerging Leaders program.

Away from the office Quesada enjoys gardening and hiking.

About Terracon

Terracon is an employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm with more than 7,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 180 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. ​Terracon consistently ranks as a top 25 design firm by Engineering News-Record. Start to explore with us by visiting terracon.com.

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by Apr 21, 2025
Taylor Morrison Homes purchases 218 lots within the Borgata at San Tan Heights in QC for $21M

Taylor Morrison Homes purchases 218 lots within the Borgata at San Tan Heights in QC for $21M

News & Updates

by | Apr 17, 2025 | News & Updates

Scottsdale, Ariz. (April 17, 2025) — Land Advisors Organization’s Homebuilding Team recently completed the sale of 218 single family final platted lots within the Borgata at San Tan Heights to Taylor Morrison Homes for $21 million. The parcel, which is located at the SWC of Thompson Road and Hunt Highway in Queen Creek is just over 131 acres in size.

The sale was facilitated by Ryan Semro, Ben Heglie, Bret Rinehart and Greg Vogel with Land Advisors Organization’s Homebuilding Team, who represented the seller Borgata at San Tan Heights LLC (Christopher Bennett). The buyer is Taylor Morrison Homes.

This purchase will kick off the second phase of the 270-acre Borgata at San Tan Heights community in North Pinal County along the southern border of Queen Creek, Arizona. The community is nestled next to the eastern boundary of the San Tan Regional Park, offering topographical variations and premium views for its 411 homesites.  Homes in the first phase are currently being constructed by Shea Homes and Tripoint Homes.

Queen Creek is the future home of LG Energy Solution’s $5.5 billion Stand-Alone Battery Manufacturing Complex (LGES) and has been experiencing significant growth since the LGES announcement in March 2023. With the LGES project well underway and on schedule to complete and commence production in 2026, the facility’s workforce and other population growth trends are prompting the need for more homes. Additionally, the State Route 24 corridor in Queen Creek is prepared for LGES supply chain providers and other businesses to expand or relocate to the area.

About Land Advisors Organization

Founded in 1987, Land Advisors Organization is the nation’s largest land brokerage firm specializing in providing deep market insights to landowners and purchasers for the most comprehensive and effective evaluation of land in markets across the country. By integrating current local market information with cutting-edge technology and geographically specialized professionals, Land Advisors Organization advises clients in identifying and capitalizing on valuable land opportunities in all economic environments. Land Advisors Organization serves landowners and purchasers from offices in Phoenix, Tucson, Casa Grande and Prescott, Arizona; Irvine, San Francisco, Century City, Pasadena, Roseville and San Diego, California; Orlando, Jacksonville and Tampa Bay, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Boise, Idaho; Las Vegas and Reno, Nevada; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Charlotte, North Carolina; Austin, Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas; Salt Lake City, Utah, Kansas City, and Seattle, Washington. Stay connected with us on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

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by Apr 17, 2025