Member Spotlight: September 2015

Brian Gildea

Each month, ICBR honors one of its members in a special Member Spotlight. This month, we recognize Brian Gildea; Indy Chamber.

ICBR: Why are you an ICBR member? What do you look to gain out of your membership?

Gildea: The Indy Chamber is a member because it is important to have an understanding of the real estate market in our own backyard. The economic development sector relies heavily on the commercial real estate market to help further our initiatives. An ICBR membership provides opportunities to network with other members and most importantly, it allows us to show our support for the industry.   

ICBR: Describe a time you used an ICBR member benefit, and how it helped you or your company.

Gildea: ICREX is a great tool to use when speaking with prospective clients, site selectors, consultants, the IEDC, etc.

ICBR: What designations/awards/recognition have you received?

Gildea:

• Elkhart Chamber of Commerce Leadership Academy (2001 – 2002)
• Key to the City of Elkhart, IN for Public Service (2007)
• Forty under 40 in Elkhart, IN
• Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) accreditation (2015)

ICBR: How did you start your career in commercial real estate/development?

Gildea: Although my career is not in commercial real estate, I work closely with those in commercial real estate through my profession in economic development.

ICBR: Do you have any mentors? If so, who? How has he/she inspired you?

Gildea: My mentors are my father, John Gildea and Dave Porter from The Orlando Economic Development Commission. Dave and I worked together in Economic Development for the City of Austin, TX. They have taught me to believe in myself and how to empower others.

ICBR: What is the most important thing you have learned by working in commercial real estate?

Gildea: Understanding pricing based on location, net absorption rates, and overall market trends.

ICBR: What is your current professional goal(s)?

Gildea: My goal is to continue to grow in the economic development profession and to help the Indy Chamber become a nationally recognized regional economic development organization. I also plan to increase my involvement with the International Economic Development Council.

ICBR: What is your most recent accomplishment?

Gildea: I recently sat for the CEcD examination through The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and received a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) accreditation.

ICBR: Do you have any special skills, interests or hobbies?

Gildea: I am currently the drummer in the Indy Chamber’s Band- Chamber Music, and am looking forward to obtaining my pilot’s license. I’m also an avid golfer and look forward to teaching my 10 year old son how to play golf so that we can enjoy time together on the golf course.