Opening Doors: How READI Is Introducing San Diego Youth to Careers in Real Estate

In an industry that plays a defining role in how our cities grow, diversity and local representation are essential to sustainable community development. The Real Estate Awareness and Discovery Initiative (READI), spearheaded by the University of San Diego’s Burnham-Moores Center for Real Estate, is helping bridge that gap by introducing junior high and high school students from historically under-resourced communities to the diverse world of commercial real estate. Through exposure to professionals, workplaces and real-world projects, READI broadens students’ perceptions of career opportunities and introduces them to pathways toward long-term economic mobility.

For many young people throughout San Diego County, commercial real estate is an invisible industry. While students interact with buildings every day, few realize the diverse professional ecosystem required to finance, design, construct and manage them. READI helps make those career pathways visible. Through partnerships with local nonprofits including the Barrio Logan College Institute, Project Next, Junior Achievement and Nativity Prep, the Burnham-Moores Center brings corporate learning directly to students who may one day help shape San Diego’s skyline.

Since its inception in fall 2022, READI has reached 317 participants, reflecting growing interest and support across the San Diego region. The program’s momentum has been fueled by professionals throughout the commercial real estate community who volunteer their time and expertise to introduce students to a wide range of careers, including commercial brokerage, asset management, architecture, property development and real estate finance. By engaging directly with professionals across these sectors, students gain a clearer understanding of how their individual interests and talents can translate into careers in real estate.

The impact of that exposure extends beyond the classroom. During the spring 2026 cohort, students participated in immersive site visits and interactive sessions with industry professionals, gaining firsthand insight into the commercial real estate industry and the diverse career opportunities it offers. Alumni and volunteers have also seen the value of creating these connections.

Gabriel Torres ’26, a READI student volunteer, reflected on his experience, “READI is a program I wish I had growing up, and it is clear how impactful it is for students. Seeing the group engaged and asking great questions was a reminder of the program’s effectiveness. I was grateful for the opportunity to share the advice that has guided me throughout my time at USD, as well as the advice I have received from all of you. I’m thankful to be part of the BMC community and appreciate everything you do to create opportunities like this for students.”

Following the spring 2026 cohort, the Burnham-Moores Center is now working with its fall 2026 participants, with a focus on expanding the program’s reach. The center is seeking additional industry partners, donors and volunteers to help provide more underserved youth with opportunities to explore the commercial real estate profession and build meaningful connections with industry leaders.

Ultimately, READI is about more than introducing students to business concepts. It is about helping young people see themselves in an industry they may never have considered and giving them the knowledge, connections and confidence to envision new possibilities for their futures. By creating a direct connection between San Diego’s diverse communities and its commercial real estate industry, the Burnham-Moores Center is helping cultivate a future workforce that is better equipped to reflect and serve the communities that make up the region.