Meet Joan Skelton

What is your role at Avison Young?

As Director of Emerging Talent, I have responsibility for developing programs primarily for early to mid-career professionals as well as promoting diversity and inclusion within the organization and enhancing employees understanding of inclusion issues in today's workplace.

How did you get into commercial real estate?

I got involved in commercial real estate over 15 years ago as a project manager on a condo construction project, then obtained my license and started marketing and selling the condos. I have done land development projects and large data center real estate deals, as well as worked for tech firms focused on CRE industry solutions.

Who has been the biggest influence in your life and why?

My 3 children. Once you have kids you never make a decision without considering how everything you do impacts their lives. What is the best advice you've ever received?

My father has given me lots of great advice, including; Be aware of your flaws but stop pointing them out to everyone. Chances are other people would have never noticed, but once you state it as a fact, it becomes one.

How has Avison Young supported you as a woman in business?

I am new to Avison Young but I already feel supported by all of the people I’ve met and worked with so far. It was important to me to work with women in particular that empower one another and take pride in each other’s accomplishments. I definitely feel that camaraderie here.

What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace?

The same advice my father gave me; figure out what you love to do and strive to be the best, success will invariably follow.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

Twenty years ago I had a dog run away when I was on vacation; I never saw him again, but the journey of searching for him led me to start an animal rescue organization and invent a patent a lost-pet tracking system. Which formed my philosophy on life – Your greatest successes will come from adversity!