Tammie Brace-Turnipseed

What is your role at Avison Young?

Vice President, Finance

How did you get into commercial real estate?

I joined this industry because my mother was in the same industry. She was also a member of CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women) at the time and knew that a fellow member was looking to hire for an open Finance position at a local real estate company. My mother connected us, and I was hired by that real estate company (now Avison Young) to handle their corporate and property management accounting. That was 15 years ago, and it is truly the best job I have ever had!

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

Professionally, my mother has been my biggest influence. She was a single mother for much of my life, and I watched her work two jobs and raise two children. She did not have a college degree, so she worked much harder than those around her who did. This prompted me to obtain a college degree and then my master's degree as well. Although my mother didn't have any college experience, it never stopped her from succeeding and advancing in her career. She always worked hard, and that drive is a part of who I am to this day.

What is the best advice you've ever received?

Always have a good work ethic, and love what you do.

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

I am part of a local management team made up of two men and two women. I feel supported and included in the management of our company, regardless of my gender. I have never felt that I was treated differently as a woman or that my thoughts and opinions did not have equal value to those of a man. I am also a mother, and over the years when my children were little, I felt very supported in that role and the juggle it can take to be a working mother. I hope my life and my job can reflect on the younger women in our office that Avison Young supports and recognizes the value of women!