The President’s Message

One thing that I have learned after 20 years in the business, commercial real estate rarely rewards people who sit still.  It rewards preparation. It rewards those who stay informed, stay connected, and stay ahead of change. As I look across our industry in 2026, I am more convinced than ever that the future belongs to professionals who combine knowledge, relationships, technology, and adaptability. My focus this year is simple: making sure The CCIM Institute continues to provide all four. 

One of the best examples of that mission came to life this Spring in Philadelphia. Our Spring Forum once again demonstrated that it is far more than a conference. It is where relationships are built, ideas are exchanged, opportunities are discovered, and deals get done. Throughout the week, members participated in educational sessions, networking events, meetings, and some exciting new additions, including our first-ever Deal Pitch Competition. The energy throughout the event was a powerful reminder that the true strength of The CCIM Institute has always been its people. 

Philadelphia also marked an important milestone in our technology journey. After 25 years of serving our members as Site To Do Business, we officially introduced Intellisite. 

This is much more than a name rebrand. 

Intellisite represents our commitment to giving CCIMs the intelligence and analytical tools they need to compete in an increasingly data-driven marketplace. The new platform delivers a modernized user experience, enhanced functionality, and a foundation that allows us to continue evolving alongside the commercial real estate industry. Watching members experience Intellisite for the first time reinforced what I have believed all along: innovation remains one of the most important investments we can make in the future success of our profession.  Innovation also does not need to be synonymous with complexity. Much like artificial intelligence has made technology easier to use, Intellisite gives members that most user-friendly platform to turn their research into money. I encourage all members to log in to Intellisite and check out the tools and features that will transform how they do business. 

We have also continued investing in the educational experience that has long differentiated the CCIM Designation. Our upgraded learning management system provides a more modern and intuitive experience for today's professionals, while new cost savings pathways are helping candidates achieve The Pin in a more efficient and structured manner. These improvements are designed not only to attract the next generation of commercial real estate leaders but also to support lifelong learning for every member of our community. 

Beyond our own programs and events, The CCIM Institute continues to have a growing presence throughout the broader commercial real estate industry. This year, I have had the privilege of representing our organization at major industry gatherings, including ICSC Whistler and MIPIM in France, amongst others. These events provide valuable insight into global trends, emerging opportunities, and evolving challenges, while also elevating the visibility and influence of the CCIM brand on an international stage. 

Just as important to me, however, has been the opportunity to spend time with our chapters and districts. Whether speaking at the Miami District Outlook Conference, attending the North Carolina CCIM Economic Forum, or joining members at the Houston/Gulf Coast Chapter Annual Forecast, I continue to be inspired by the passion, expertise, and leadership I see throughout our network. There is nothing more powerful than witnessing CCIMs collaborate, share knowledge, and raise the standard for commercial real estate in their respective markets. 

That momentum now carries us toward the Fall Forum in Los Angeles, October 4–8. Whether you are a seasoned designee, a candidate pursuing The Pin, or someone looking to deepen your connections within the industry, the Fall Forum represents one of the best opportunities all year to strengthen relationships, expand your knowledge, and experience the power of the CCIM network firsthand.  You will not want to miss it. 

Ultimately, the future of The CCIM Institute will not be defined by any single initiative or technology platform. It will be defined by our ability to bring together exceptional professionals, world-class education, meaningful relationships, and innovative tools that help our members succeed. 

That is exactly what we are building. 

We are not simply adapting to change. We are positioning CCIMs to lead through it. 

Thank you for your continued involvement, leadership, and commitment to our organization. I look forward to seeing what we accomplish together throughout the remainder of 2026 and beyond. 

Adam Palmer, CCIM, SIOR 
2026 Global President 
The CCIM Institute