2025 Commercial Real Estate Summit
By : J. David Chapman/September 18, 2025
On October 1, Oklahoma’s commercial real estate community will gather at the University of Central Oklahoma for a full day of insight, networking, and forward-looking conversations. The Summit will spotlight how markets, technology, and community needs are shaping the future of our industry. All proceeds support the UCO Real Estate Program.
The day begins with keynote speaker Dr. Russell Evans, known for making complex economic trends accessible. Evans will outline the forces driving Oklahoma’s economy and what they mean for commercial real estate, setting the stage for the discussions to follow.
At lunch, Richard Andreski, CEO of Trinity Metro in Fort Worth, will deliver the second keynote. He will share how commuter rail and regional transit can transform markets and fuel growth, followed by a breakout discussion with the Directors of the Central Oklahoma Regional Transit Authority on the long-anticipated possibility of commuter rail in Oklahoma.
Throughout the day, courses and panels will equip attendees with practical tools and timely insight. A CCIM-led workshop, Mastering CRE with AI: Tools, Tactics, and Real Results, will provide hands-on training in using large language models for market analysis, financial modeling, and marketing strategy. Another session, featuring Matthew Myers, Austin Tunnell, and Eddie Coates, will examine pocket neighborhoods and innovative development models that create resilient, people-centered communities.
Additional programming will highlight initiatives shaping Oklahoma’s real estate landscape. The City of OKC’s Brownfields Program will be presented as a resource for site remediation, while the unveiling of the 2025 Statewide Housing Needs Assessment will offer a data-driven look at housing gaps across the state. A session on alternative financing—covering SBA, PACE, TIF, and Opportunity Zones—will provide developers and investors with practical strategies. Finally, David Dirkschneider, Amir Shams, and Allison Barta Bailey will lead a discussion on how shifts in commercial brokerage are redefining the profession.
Networking remains at the heart of the Summit, with breaks throughout the day designed to connect peers, lenders, brokers, developers, and industry partners who share a stake in Oklahoma’s future.
The event concludes with a milestone moment: the inaugural induction ceremony of the Oklahoma Real Estate Hall of Fame. Industry icons Mark Beffort and Mo Anderson will be honored as the Hall’s first inductees, recognized for their extraordinary vision and leadership.
Whether you’re seeking practical tools, fresh market insight, or meaningful connections, the 2025 CRE Summit promises a day of learning and inspiration. I look forward to seeing you there.
J. David Chapman, Ph.D., is chair of finance & professor real estate at The University of Central Oklahoma (jchapman7@uco.edu).