CREW Pittsburgh would like to welcome Rachel James as a new member! Learn more about what inspires her in this Q&A:
What role do you play in the commercial real estate industry?
I am an attorney at Sherrard, German & Kelly, P.C. assisting clients on a variety of commercial, residential, and energy real estate matters.
How did you get started in your current position?
I have a real estate background but it is very energy focused. I really wanted to shift my practice area to commercial and residential real estate and Sherrard, German & Kelly was looking for an attorney who could assist on commercial and residential real estate matters and also jump on an energy matter when needed. The position fits very well with my background and the direction I wanted to take my career.
What are your interests and/or hobbies outside of work?
I have a 4 year old and a 2 year old so I usually spend most time outside of work playing with them or doing something with the family. We have a membership to the Carnegie Museums so checking out the Science Center and Natural History Museum is something we love to do together.
Where is your favorite place to go out in Pittsburgh (Strip District, zoo, cultural district, etc.)?
I really love shopping and eating in the Strip District. I think the Strip is a great way to spend a Saturday or Sunday afternoon in Pittsburgh. I also really enjoy visiting local breweries.
What are you hoping to achieve with your CREW membership?
My main goal is to connect with other females in the Pittsburgh area who are seasoned professionals in the commercial real estate industry or who just love working in the industry in general. I think women can be a great support system for one another and I hope to find that with CREW.
How do you achieve balance between work and home life?
This is something I still struggle with but I try to be as productive as I can be during work hours so I can really focus on my family when I am at home. As an attorney, it is difficult to turn the clock off sometimes and I used to feel guilty when I took a vacation, but over time I learned that I am better at my job when I step away and give myself a break.
Tell us something people may find surprising about you.
I have a twin sister and we were born on my mother’s birthday. People always seem really surprised when I tell them I share a birthday with not only my sister but my mom too.
Where have you traveled? Where do you wish to travel?
Before kids I felt like I traveled quite a bit. I studied abroad in Australia and traveled to Thailand, Brazil, Italy, Spain, Costa Rica and other spots in the U.S. I was supposed to go to Napa the first week of the COVID shutdown so rescheduling that is hopefully next on the list.
Anything else you want us to know about you?
I am looking forward to meeting everyone!