AZ Big 100: The Commercial Real Estate Leaders Shaping 2026

Modern office architectural model

Every year, AZ Big Media highlights the innovators driving Arizona’s explosive economic evolution. The AZ Big 100 is not merely a ranking—it’s a forward‑looking glimpse into the minds rebuilding, reimagining, and reshaping the state’s commercial landscape.

Curated by the AZRE editorial board alongside respected industry experts, the list showcases 50 leaders whose influence extends far beyond construction sites. These are visionaries shaping communities, elevating design‑build methodologies, and guiding Arizona into a future of intentional, high‑impact growth.

For rising and seasoned professionals—especially those sharpening their skills or earning new licenses through institutions like Cameron Academy—the AZ Big 100 delivers powerful insight into what industry‑defining leadership looks like.

Leadership, Innovation, and a Rapidly Evolving Market

Arizona’s commercial real estate sector remains one of its strongest economic anchors. Behind every transformative project are leaders whose strategic decisions influence not just infrastructure but workforce development, public policy, and long‑term urban growth.

From sustainable construction to high‑tech innovation, this year’s honorees embody the diverse expertise required to build a resilient future for Arizona.

Spotlight on Key Leaders from the 2026 List

Ryan Abbott — President, Clayco

Abbott champions a pioneering approach to integrated project delivery, merging design, engineering, and construction with seamless precision. With more than 61 awards, his leadership continues to redefine the future of large‑scale building.

Learn more

Dala Al‑Fuwaires — House of Form

Al‑Fuwaires brings narrative‑driven hospitality design to life, crafting memorable restaurant and commercial spaces while uplifting communities through equitable, people‑first initiatives.

Annette Anderson — Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation

Rising from receptionist to president, Anderson exemplifies empathetic, trust‑driven leadership—reminding the industry that people remain its most valuable asset.

Learn more

David Campbell — District Manager, PCL Construction

Campbell’s strategic foresight expanded PCL’s Arizona presence, deepening partnerships and positioning the region for long‑term, sustainable development.

Learn more

Jenna Ghisolfo — Housing Consultants of America

Ghisolfo turned life’s challenges into a nationwide movement for equitable housing, blending compliance with empathy to secure stability for families across the country.

Learn more

Tony Mangat — Founder, The Mangat Group

From just $20 to a diversified enterprise, Mangat built a powerhouse spanning real estate, transportation, hospitality, and education—fueled by trust and smart vertical growth.

Learn more

Bryce Terveen — Managing Director, Colliers

Terveen leverages his athletic discipline and strategic mindset to drive Colliers’ expansion while cultivating innovation and high‑performance team culture.

Learn more

Why Lists Like the AZ Big 100 Matter

Arizona’s ongoing boom stems from long‑range vision, strong collaboration, and leadership that understands both data and community needs. These honorees influence policy, sustainability, housing, workforce training, and development across one of the fastest‑growing states in the country.

For professionals expanding into real estate, commercial development, insurance, mortgage, finance, or other licensed fields, keeping an eye on leaders like these offers valuable insight into where the market is headed. And institutions such as Cameron Academy continue empowering that journey with accessible licensing programs nationwide.

A Rising Market Needs Rising Leaders

The AZ Big 100 is more than recognition—it is a blueprint for the type of leadership that will steer Arizona’s next decade of growth. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just stepping into your career, the stories of these honorees offer a model for innovation, resilience, and impact.

Explore the full lineup of industry‑shaping leaders in the official feature from AZ Big Media:
Read the complete AZ Big 100 list.

More Articles

Getting licensed or staying ahead in your career can be a journey—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Grab your favorite coffee or tea, take a moment to relax, and browse through our articles. Whether you’re just starting out or renewing your expertise, we’ve got tips, insights, and advice to keep you moving forward. Here’s to your success—one sip and one step at a time!

Is Becoming a Financial Analyst a Smart Career Move in 2025–2026?

Financial analysis remains one of the strongest career paths for professionals seeking high earnings, steady growth, and long-term stability. With median salaries above $100K, expanding demand across industries, and clear promotion tracks leading to senior leadership roles, the field offers both opportunity and resilience—even as AI reshapes the workplace. This article breaks down what analysts do, salary expectations, job outlook, industry demand, and whether this career is the right fit for you.

The Crisis Beneath the Ashes: LA Wildfires Reveal a National Insurance Breakdown

After losing their home in the Los Angeles wildfires, Jessica and Matt Conkle expected their insurance policy to help them rebuild. Instead, they found themselves trapped in delays, lowball offers, and endless adjuster changes — a struggle now shared by thousands across California. Their experience highlights a nationwide problem: insurers pulling back from climate‑risk areas, soaring premiums, shrinking coverage, and regulators under fire. For professionals in real estate, mortgage, and insurance, this growing instability is reshaping transactions, lending, risk assessment, and the future of homeownership in America.

Kansas City Housing Market Poised for a 2026 Comeback

Kansas City’s housing market is finally gaining momentum heading into 2026 as falling interest rates, new construction, and a renewed focus on affordable homes open the door for first‑time buyers. Economists say improved supply and softer mortgage rates could shift the market after a challenging 2025, giving real estate professionals and buyers a promising window of opportunity.

Nevada Makes History by Letting Homeowners Drop Wildfire Coverage

Nevada has become the first state to allow insurers to sell homeowners policies without wildfire protection—a move aimed at lowering premiums but raising concerns about consumer risk and mortgage barriers. The law introduces new wildfire‑only policies and a regulatory sandbox for insurance innovation, potentially setting a precedent for other Western states.

Why Tax‑Deferred Property Programs Are Surging — and What It Means for Real Estate Professionals

Investment groups across the U.S. are rapidly expanding into tax‑deferred real estate programs as demand for Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) accelerates. Major players like Blackstone, Brookfield, Denholtz, and PREP are launching new offerings fueled by stronger market certainty, a historic generational wealth transfer, and renewed confidence in 1031 exchange benefits. As DSTs move into the mainstream, real estate professionals are finding new opportunities to guide clients through advanced tax‑advantaged investment strategies.

How AI and a Tough Fundraising Climate Are Rewriting the Future of Canadian Proptech

Canada’s proptech sector is evolving fast as AI adoption accelerates and investor caution forces startups to mature. Funding has tightened, growth rounds have slowed, and companies are shifting from rapid expansion to profitability and real product‑market fit. AI‑driven platforms like Mave are gaining traction, consolidation is rising, and government housing initiatives may boost construction‑focused tech. For real estate professionals, these trends signal a new industry standard where AI tools and ongoing education are essential to staying competitive.