Ascend35: Early-career leadership program for real estate management
Build credibility. Grow your network. Make progress toward an IREM® certification with financial support from the IREM Foundation.
Ascend35: Early-career leadership program for real estate management
Build credibility. Grow your network. Make progress toward an IREM® certification with financial support from the IREM Foundation.
What is Ascend35?
Ascend35 is an IREM leadership and professional development program for IREM members under 35. Each year, 10 participants will be selected to receive financial support towards an IREM certification, one-on-one mentorship, volunteer leadership opportunities, and industry recognition.
The program helps participants strengthen their expertise and stand out as emerging leaders in real estate management.
What Ascend35 participants receive
Ascend35 gives selected participants targeted support to advance toward certification, grow as leaders, and gain visibility in the industry.
-
Financial support for IREM certification coursework
-
Guidance to stay on track toward IREM certification
-
One-on-one mentoring from experienced real estate management professionals
-
Volunteer leadership opportunities with IREM
-
Industry recognition on IREM social media channels
-
A digital Ascend35 badge to display on professional profiles
Who should apply for Ascend35?
To be eligible for Ascend35, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
-
Be an active IREM member.
- Or, if a non-member, applicants must be employed by an IREM AMO® (Accredited Management Organization).
-
Be under the age of 35 at the time of application.
-
Be employed full-time by a real estate management organization.
-
Applicants must currently be enrolled in an IREM certification course, or have previously completed one.
What makes a strong Ascend35 candidate?
The strongest Ascend35 applicants are professionals who are actively working toward an IREM certification, can articulate specific career goals, and are ready to contribute to the real estate management profession.
How to apply for Ascend35
The Ascend35 application includes three short essay questions. Strong applicants should clearly connect their career goals to the specific opportunities Ascend35 offers.
The three application essay prompts are:
-
What motivated you to pursue a career in real estate management, and how does earning an IREM certification align with your short and long-term career goals?
-
How are you currently investing in your professional development? How would participation in Ascend35 support your continued growth within the industry?
-
How do you hope to use your IREM certification to make an impact within your organization, community, or the real estate management industry as a whole?
Ascend35 application dates – 2026
-
Applications open: June 22, 2026
-
Deadline to apply: July 13, 2026 at 5 pm CT
-
Mentorship & recognition start: August 2026
Ready to take the next step?
Ascend35 is your opportunity to build skills, confidence, and connections while progressing toward an IREM certification. If you’re ready to grow as an emerging leader in property management, apply by July 13, 2026, at 5 pm CT.
Questions about Ascend35? Contact us at getinfo@irem.org.
Frequently asked questions about Ascend35
Is Ascend35 only for property managers?
Ascend35 is open to any IREM member under 35 who works full-time in real estate management, including asset management, leasing, and related roles in the industry.
Does Ascend35 require pursuing a specific IREM certification?
Ascend35 applicants may pursue any IREM certification. Participants must be enrolled in or have completed at least one IREM certification course or be employed by an AMO. The program provides financial and advisory support to help participants advance towards any IREM certification.
What does “financial support” mean in practice?
Financial support is provided through the IREM Foundation and is applied toward the cost of IREM certification coursework. Specific award amounts will be communicated during the selection process.