NEW YORK CITY-Any woman – or man, for that matter – doubting their choice of career in commercial real estate could look to Mary Ann Tighe, CEO of CBRE's New York Tri-State Region for reassurance. Why? Not only is the woman an icon, but she has such a composed affect that communicates her comfort and confidence in her chosen profession. And attendees at Real Estate Weekly's Second Annual Women's Forum were treated to some words of wisdom from the professional during the day's second keynote speech titled “How Did You Get Here?” – a question and answer session in which Head of the Americas, Sousou Partners' Jennifer Novak posed the career-related queries.

Tighe kicked off the discussion explaining just how she moved from her position in the arts to the realm of commercial real estate. To summarize, she had a few serendipitous meetings, which led to further introductions and, finally, her own decision to write a profile on Ed Gordon's company; a move that landed her a job in his office. Despite having a more creative background, Tighe explained, “the beauty of real estate is that any skill set is applicable” and thus she has been able to unite both throughout her experience. For instance, she noted that when RFPs became necessary to the industry, she was tasked with writing many of them thanks to her English degree.

However, a person can have the most diverse skill set on the planet, but still has to take initiative; something Tighe has mastered. She said that showing up consistently, putting oneself “in the game” and remaining resilient are the qualities that lead to luck and subsequently opportunity.