Inside CREW Network: Empowering Women and Shaping the Future of Commercial Real Estate

Inside CREW Network: Empowering Women and Shaping the Future of Commercial Real Estate

By Michael Bull, Host of America’s Commercial Real Estate Show

In today’s shifting commercial real estate (CRE) landscape, one organization continues to stand out — not just for its growth, but for the impact it’s having on professionals and communities alike. It’s called CREW Network — short for Commercial Real Estate Women.

 

With more than 14,000 members across 85 markets worldwide, CREW is driving inclusivity, leadership, and connectivity across every discipline of commercial real estate — from brokers and lenders to attorneys, developers, and investors.

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Alison Beddard, the new CEO of CREW Network, on America’s Commercial Real Estate Show. Our conversation covered everything from the organization’s global reach to trends in today’s office sector — and what the future might look like for both employers and occupiers.

 

The Power of Connection in Commercial Real Estate

“Commercial real estate is all about relationships,” Alison said. “If you’re going to provide advice to clients, you need to trust the people and the sources you rely on.”

That’s where CREW shines. Unlike many industry associations that focus on one niche, CREW connects professionals across all 36 disciplines within the commercial real estate ecosystem. The result? Deals get done faster — and with more trust.

Members often share stories of entire transactions being completed solely through CREW connections — from lenders and attorneys to title companies and brokers. “You can drop into any market and find trusted advisors within this network,” Alison noted.

 

Leadership, Mentorship, and Momentum

Beyond networking, CREW offers something deeper — real leadership development. Each local chapter operates independently, providing opportunities for members to step up, lead projects, and build credibility within their markets.

As Alison put it, “I wouldn’t be the leader I am today without CREW. It helped me grow as a professional and as a person.”

One of her favorite stories involves a skeptical broker who reached out to a portfolio manager — both CREW members — and landed a call back that changed her career. “When I saw you were considering CREW membership, I prioritized your call,” the manager told her. That’s the power of shared purpose.

 

Office Market Evolution: From Crisis to Reinvention

Given Alison’s deep background in the office sector, we couldn’t resist talking about how the market has changed since COVID-19.

“The short-term leases of the pandemic era are behind us,” she said. “Occupiers are back to longer-term commitments — but the way they think about space has evolved.”

The biggest driver now? Talent retention and recruitment.
Today’s offices must be designed for flexibility, collaboration, and experience — not just square footage.

Alison sees a “trifurcation” in the office market:

• Premium space commanding higher rents
• Mid-tier buildings still redefining their role
• Older stock likely to be repurposed or redeveloped

Occupiers are willing to pay a premium for quality space that helps attract and retain talent. And despite high vacancy headlines, not all buildings are struggling — some mid-tier assets in great locations remain fully leased and thriving.

 

Seattle Spotlight: Resilience and Revival

Alison, who’s based in Seattle, has witnessed this evolution firsthand. “Our vacancy rates are still high — in the mid to upper 20s — but the market is improving,” she shared.

Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google have helped lead a return-to-office revival, driving foot traffic and revitalizing downtown. In fact, Seattle’s pedestrian and activity levels have now surpassed pre-2019 numbers.

“It’s not the same city it was five years ago,” she said, “but it’s moving in the right direction.”

 

Why the Office Still Matters

Despite all the changes, one thing hasn’t gone away — the need for connection. “Mandates don’t work,” Alison emphasized. “You can’t force culture. You have to create environments where people want to be.”

Companies are focusing on design and amenities that foster collaboration — conference centers, natural light, healthy food, wellness features, and shared spaces that feel more like home.

As I shared with Alison, my own daughter — who once swore by remote work — fell in love with her job again after moving into a newly designed, inspiring office. That’s the magic of a space that works.

 

Final Thoughts: Building the Future Together

CREW Network is proving that inclusion, collaboration, and leadership development aren’t just buzzwords — they’re business advantages.

Whether you’re a seasoned investor, a broker building your network, or a rising professional in commercial real estate, CREW Network offers the relationships, resources, and reputation you need to grow.

👉 Learn more or join at crewnetwork.org
🎧 Catch more interviews and market insights at CREshow.com

 

About the Author
Michael Bull, CCIM, is the host of America’s Commercial Real Estate Show and founder of Bull Realty, a U.S. commercial real estate brokerage specializing in sales, leasing, and advisory services since 1998.