Meet this NM top private company that’s been involved in more than $190 million in real estate deals

In May, Albuquerque Business First revealed the companies that made our new Top 100 New Mexico Private Companies Awards.

Business First is highlighting a handful of companies that are new to the list this year.

First up is NAI Maestas & Ward Commercial Real Estate.

The commercial real estate firm was involved in $193.70 million in transactions in 2017, according to our Largest New Mexico Commercial Real Estate Firms List. It also managed 3.45 million square feet in 2017.

But beyond its number, the firm's leadership continues to make headlines. CEO Debbie Harms was among notable commercial real estate executives across the country included in the Business Journals’ list of commercial real estate influencers.

In March, Harms talked to Business First about how to get more women involved in commercial real estate and construction jobs.

"Commercial real estate is either appealing to you, or it isn’t," she said. "It takes a lot of knowledge, education, tenacity, networking, perseverance and honor to work in commercial real estate. It’s not easy, there are no “free lunches” and the standard is high. The way we get more women in commercial real estate is to teach them as young girls that they are equal to any man, and more importantly, we teach them that respect is earned, not given. You earn respect by doing the homework, doing the analysis, doing the research and being prepared. You earn respect by working with your clients, going the extra step, taking the extra time, giving the extra thought and being ready when the time is right."

Jim Wible, director at NAI Maestas and Ward, was named Commercial Association of REALTORS New Mexico's "REALTOR of the Year" for 2017.

The Top 100 Private Companies encompasses the top-performing independent companies, including wholly owned subsidiaries and nonprofits, that are based in New Mexico. Companies submitted their information by survey to be considered for The List of New Mexico Private Companies. The List is ranked by 2017 New Mexico revenue.

This new event will highlight the work of New Mexico's private sector and will include lots of fun surprises and recognition, including the new Company of the Year Award.

Join us June 14 at the Albuquerque Convention Center as we celebrate the many companies thriving in New Mexico's private sector.

The Top 100 New Mexico Private Companies Awards is sponsored by Bank of America and Meals on Wheels.