IREM Launches Internship Program for Real Estate Management

Chicago–Staffing is always an issue on multifamily properties, so the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) has introduced a timely solution. IREM recently launched an internship program that introduces newcomers to the field of real estate management. To mark the first phase of the program, which will be expanded over time, an internship section has been created on IREM’s online job board, www.iremjobs.org. Here, employers can post internship openings at no cost, and students can search for positions, upload resumes and apply to postings directly through the site.“This internship program will provide newcomers to the industry with the preparation they need to succeed in real estate management,” says Regina T. Mullins, 2008 IREM president. “We are not only building a future for these individuals, we’re building the future for the industry.”Mullins points out that both employers and students benefit from this type of program.“Employers are rewarded with a pipeline of future recruits and potential employees,” Mullins reports. “In addition, interns may bring new viewpoints or creative solutions to existing problems. Given the workforce development challenges facing the real estate management industry,” added Mullins, “an internship program is a great way to get new talent engaged in the industry.” According to Mullins, students can reap many benefits from internship experiences. Interns are given the opportunity to apply lessons from the classroom to real-world situations, learn new skills and get a feel for the career they are about to enter. These students then return to the classroom with a better understanding of the big picture, and are better able to complete assignments and projects. Upon graduation, they will have an established network of contacts in the industry and a practical understanding of the field.IREM is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2008. An affiliate of the National Association of Realtors, IREM is the only professional real estate management association serving both the multifamily and commercial real estate sectors. With 80 U.S. chapters, eight international chapters, and several other partnerships around the globe, IREM is an international organization that also serves as an advocate on issues affecting the real estate management industry. Membership includes more than 18,000 individual members and 500 corporate members. IREM promotes ethical real estate management practices through its credentialed membership programs. Collectively, IREM CPM Members in the U.S. manage over $1.5 trillion in real estate assets, including 8.4 million residential units. An additional 977,400 residential units are managed by IREM ARM Members.