2026 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Kate Keller, Keller Augusta

What trend or change in commercial real estate do you believe will have the biggest impact over the next five years?

Artificial intelligence, though not how the headlines suggest. We are early in the adoption curve, and most of the industry has not embraced AI for critical decision making. Among our clients, it is arriving as a tool to enhance the people already in house, not replace them, absorbing tedious work so teams can focus on judgment. It is not currently negatively impacting junior- or entry-level roles. Going forward, AI will change the way the industry thinks about talent. The advantage will go to professionals who can direct these tools and manage the output. That is the shift to prepare for now.

What advice would you give to the next generation of women entering commercial real estate?

Build your network and reputation on trust and follow-through. This industry is smaller than it seems, and the relationships you form early will follow you for decades. The market moves in cycles, and the difficult ones teach you the most and that’s when industry relationships are tested. Steadiness and trustworthiness through a downturn is what builds a long career. Finally, this field still has room for you, so find people who will invest in your growth, and try to pay it forward.