The Hawaii chapter of Filipinos in Institutional Real Estate (FIIRE) has announced a free panel discussion aimed at individuals interested in pursuing a career in the commercial real estate sector. The event is scheduled to take place on the evening of October 22, 2025, at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
This career-focused session will be held at the Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center and is designed to provide valuable insights and networking opportunities for students, recent graduates, and professionals considering a transition into the industry. The event is open to the public at no cost.
Key Takeaways
- Event: A free panel discussion on careers in commercial real estate.
- Organizer: The Hawaii chapter of Filipinos in Institutional Real Estate (FIIRE).
- Date and Time: October 22, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Location: Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu.
- Purpose: To educate attendees about career paths in the industry and foster diversity.
FIIRE Hawaii to Host Career Panel at UH Manoa
An upcoming event in Honolulu aims to shed light on the diverse career opportunities available within the commercial real estate (CRE) industry. Hosted by the Hawaii chapter of Filipinos in Institutional Real Estate (FIIRE), the panel discussion is designed as an introductory platform for aspiring professionals.
The session will be held on October 22, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center. According to the organizers, the event is free of charge and will include food, creating an informal environment for networking.
The choice of venue, the RISE Center, aligns with the event's goal of fostering professional growth. The center is known as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship at the university, providing a fitting backdrop for a discussion on career building.
Exploring Opportunities in Commercial Real Estate
For many, the term "real estate" brings to mind residential home sales. However, the commercial sector represents a vast and varied field with numerous professional tracks. This event seeks to highlight these less-visible but highly rewarding career paths.
What is Commercial Real Estate?
Commercial real estate encompasses property used exclusively for business-related purposes or to provide a workspace. This includes everything from office buildings and industrial warehouses to retail centers and apartment complexes. The industry is a significant driver of economic activity, involving development, sales, leasing, property management, and financial analysis.
Industry Scale
The U.S. commercial real estate market is a multi-trillion dollar industry. It plays a critical role in the national economy, supporting millions of jobs in construction, property management, finance, and related services.
Attendees of the FIIRE panel can expect to learn about various roles within the sector. A career in CRE is not limited to being a broker; opportunities exist in multiple specialized areas.
- Investment Analysis: Evaluating properties for their financial potential.
- Asset Management: Overseeing a portfolio of properties to maximize their value.
- Property Development: Managing the process of building or renovating commercial spaces.
- Corporate Real Estate: Managing the real estate assets of a large corporation.
- Leasing and Brokerage: Facilitating transactions between landlords and tenants.
- Property Management: Handling the day-to-day operations of a commercial building.
The Mission of FIIRE
Filipinos in Institutional Real Estate (FIIRE) is a professional organization dedicated to increasing the representation of Filipinos in the institutional real estate industry. The organization was founded to create a network for professionals of Filipino descent and to provide mentorship and career development resources.
FIIRE's mission centers on three core pillars: connection, mentorship, and professional advancement. By hosting events like the upcoming panel in Honolulu, the organization aims to build a strong community and create pathways for the next generation of leaders.
"Our goal with this event is to demystify the commercial real estate industry and show that there is a place for everyone, regardless of their background. We want to provide a platform for students and young professionals to connect with established leaders and see a viable future for themselves in this dynamic field," a representative for FIIRE Hawaii might state.
The establishment of a Hawaii chapter underscores the organization's commitment to reaching communities across the country. Local chapters are crucial for addressing the specific market dynamics and opportunities within a region.
Promoting Diversity in a Key Industry
The commercial real estate industry has historically faced challenges with diversity and inclusion. Organizations like FIIRE play a vital role in changing this landscape by actively promoting the industry to underrepresented groups and building support networks.
Events that connect students and professionals with industry leaders are a key strategy for breaking down barriers to entry. They provide not only information but also the personal connections that are often essential for career progression.
The Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center
Located on the University of Hawaii at Manoa campus, the RISE Center is a live-learn-work community for student entrepreneurs. It provides co-working spaces, meeting rooms, and a fabrication lab, making it an ideal location for events focused on innovation and professional development.
By fostering a more inclusive environment, the real estate industry can benefit from a wider range of perspectives and talents. This leads to better decision-making, greater innovation, and services that more accurately reflect the diverse communities they serve.
Event Details and Registration Information
For those interested in attending, the key details are straightforward. The event is designed to be accessible to anyone with an interest in the commercial real estate field.
- Event Title: Commercial Real Estate Career Panel
- Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2025
- Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Venue: Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI
- Cost: Free
- Refreshments: Food will be provided.
Organizers encourage prospective attendees to visit the official FIIRE website for any updates and to learn more about the organization's mission and other events. The website is fiireusa.org.
This panel represents a valuable opportunity for individuals in Honolulu to gain direct access to industry knowledge and expand their professional network in the commercial real estate sector.