Etkin Scholar Rodrigo Soler had the opportunity to attend ULI’s most recent Fall Meeting last month in Las Vegas. Below, he shares his experience at the conference:

“Attending the 2024 ULI Fall Meeting in Las Vegas as an Etkin Scholar was an invaluable experience. With approximately 5,000 professionals gathered, I was immersed in insightful discussions and attended a site tour that highlighted innovative industrial developments in North Las Vegas. I gained perspectives from leaders across various sectors and explored emerging trends that are shaping the future of real estate, particularly in sustainable and efficient building practices. A particularly impactful session was led by Chris Anderson of Vantem, titled “Technology Highlight: Clean Industrial Revolution for the Built Environment.” Anderson outlined the potential of factory-built homes to transform both multifamily and single-family construction. This approach not only reduces costs but accelerates project timelines and enhances structural integrity. It also offers energy-efficient solutions, aligning with “Green Financing” initiatives, which make these projects more viable. I am inspired to see this technology potentially expanding to the West Coast, promising faster, more affordable, and sustainable housing solutions.

Another particularly interesting session was the LG panel, where an innovative modular home concept was presented that could be entirely self-sustainable using solar panels. This groundbreaking approach offers a practical solution for housing in remote locations lacking traditional utility infrastructure. By eliminating the reliance on external power sources, these homes reduce one of the most significant costs and challenges associated with off-grid living. The design focuses on energy efficiency and sustainability, integrating advanced technologies to optimize solar energy usage. With power needs addressed, only water and sewage remain as utilities to be managed, simplifying the process of establishing livable communities in isolated areas. The modular construction also allows for rapid deployment and scalability, making it a promising option for addressing housing shortages and promoting sustainable development. This session underscored the potential of combining technology and innovative design to solve real-world problems in the housing sector.

The ULI Fall Meeting provided not only insightful educational sessions but also fantastic networking opportunities. I was thrilled to meet fellow Etkin Scholars from all around the United States, sharing experiences and building connections that I believe will be invaluable in my future career. Engaging with industry professionals allowed me to gain diverse perspectives and deeper insights into the real estate field. This experience has reinforced my commitment to personal and professional growth, and I plan to continue participating in ULI events to stay at the forefront of industry advancements and to contribute meaningfully to the real estate community.”

Rodrigo, left, pictured with two other ULI Etkin Scholars.