FROM THE PRESIDENT
MARY WESSLER | CONAM COLORADO
Finding New Talent for the Industry
a High Priority for AAMD
A
gainst the backdrop of thousands of new apartment homes
being delivered currently and over the next few years, the
Apartment Association of Metro Denver is preparing to launch
a new initiative to attract new talent to our industry.
This special edition of Trends Magazine is just the initial step in this
important program. We hope you find the information useful and look
forward to more ideas, resources and action towards attracting new talent
for your business.
As I outlined in my speech at the Board Installation event in June, the
multi-family industry is growing and we need more people to work in this
great business which offers so a variety of career paths.
The first step is realizing the advantages and opportunities we already
have. We have so much to offer new professionals, for starters consider
these key benefits of working in our industry:
• A professional work environment;
• No specific degree or required educational training;
• Upward movement, most executives started in an entry level
apartment position;
• Diversity of skills and opportunities – from accounting to
maintenance to management;
• Lifestyle and career / life balance;
• And so many of our positions provide direct ongoing interaction with
the public.
The list could go on and on… but the bottom line is that the apartment
industry offers sustainable growth! Business is going to grow and so can
the career of a new professional who chooses to work in this business.
6 | TRENDS • SEPTEMBER 2014
The AAMD Board and Staff are in the planning stages of executing
multiple strategies, which we will continue to keep the membership
updated on, including the following:
• Partnering with local PR and media to help craft and deliver our
message;
• Building and enhancing the reputation of working in our business;
• Updating, improving and broadening the reach of the AAMD
Career Center;
• Promoting the industry through career development programs at
local colleges;
• Participating in job fairs;
• Identifying the best cross-over industries for complimentary skill
sets;
• Studying key traits and competencies that are successful in the
industry;
• And providing Community Managers more resources and skills to
recruit and hire the best possible talent available.
This plan will progress with a broad scope and long-term vision. The
benefit of attracting more highly skilled professionals will always provide
a relevant and valuable service to our members.
Mary Wessler
2014-2015 AAMD President
www.aamdhq.org