Derrick Wille originally planned to build a career in accounting. But when working in the accounting department of a general contractor, he discovered that he’d rather pursue a career in real estate.
And that’s how Wille ended up in the commercial real estate field. Today, he works as a senior project manager with Chicago’s Urban Innovations and is a rising leader in the CRE business.
We asked Wille about his passion for real estate, what he enjoys most about the business and the goals he’s set for his future. Here is some of what he had to say.
Tell us about your background. Where did you grow up? Where did you go to school?
Derrick Wille: I was born in Park Ridge, Illinois, and grew up in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. I attended Bradley University from 2005 to 2009, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. Afterward, I pursued further studies at Roosevelt University, completing my MBA with a concentration in Accounting between 2010 and 2011. This combination of business management and accounting has provided me with a strong foundation for my career in construction and project management.
How did you get your start in the industry?
Wille: My career in construction began somewhat unexpectedly, starting in the accounting department of a general contractor. I was initially drawn to the industry through the financial side of things, where I focused on managing budgets, tracking expenses and ensuring accurate financial reporting. This role provided me with a solid foundation in the intricacies of construction finance.
After a year-and-a-half in accounting, my supervisors recognized that my deep understanding of construction accounting and my attention to detail positioned me well for a different role. They suggested that I transition into a construction project manager position. This recommendation was based on the idea that my financial expertise could offer valuable insights and oversight in project management.
Embracing this opportunity, I moved into project management and quickly realized that it was a perfect fit for me. The shift allowed me to combine my analytical skills with a hands-on approach to overseeing projects, coordinating teams and solving on-the-ground challenges. Since then, I’ve never looked back, and my career has flourished in this dynamic and fulfilling field.
Did you have a mentor who helped you get on your feet, or is there someone you turn to now for support?
Wille: I wouldn’t say there was one specific person who acted as a mentor throughout my career, but I’ve always been fortunate to have great colleagues and peers who provided invaluable advice and support. In every role I’ve taken on, there have been individuals with diverse experiences and expertise who were willing to share their knowledge and insights.
These colleagues have played a crucial role in helping me navigate challenges, offering guidance and providing a sounding board for ideas. Their support has been instrumental in my growth and success, and I continue to rely on a network of trusted professionals for ongoing advice and encouragement. This collaborative and supportive environment has been one of the cornerstones of my career development.
What does an average day at work look like?
Wille: In construction, there’s really no such thing as an average day. Each day brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. My days usually include a mix of internal and external meetings, reviewing project updates and addressing unexpected issues. I coordinate with project managers and site supervisors, often visiting job sites to ensure everything is progressing smoothly and safely. Throughout the week I’m actively involved in managing my team’s workload, delegating new projects and reviewing budgets/proposal before they go out the door.
What do you like most about your job?
Wille: I like the opportunity to be at the forefront of creating tangible, impactful results. Seeing a project evolve from blueprints to a completed structure is incredibly rewarding. It’s gratifying to witness how our collective efforts come together to build something that stands as a testament to our hard work and expertise.
I also enjoy the diverse challenges that each project presents. Every day brings new problems to solve and unique situations to navigate, which keeps the work engaging and dynamic. Whether it’s overcoming an unexpected challenge, finding innovative solutions or coordinating with various stakeholders, I thrive on the variety and complexity of the job. Another aspect I find fulfilling is leading and mentoring a team. I take pride in helping my team members grow professionally, providing guidance, and supporting their development. Building a cohesive, motivated team and seeing them succeed is a significant source of satisfaction for me.
Looking to the future, what do you hope to work on/achieve that you haven’t already?
Wille: While I’ve had a very rewarding career already, I’m excited about the future and the opportunities it holds. I hope to continue advancing in my role as a leader of our construction team, guiding our projects to new levels of excellence. Additionally, I’m eager to contribute to the growth of the company, helping to expand our capabilities and reach in the industry. My goal is to build on our current successes and drive innovation, ensuring that we not only meet but exceed our clients’ expectations and achieve new milestones together.
How do you spend your time away from the office?
Wille: When I’m not working, I love spending time with my family and friends. My 10-year-old daughter and I are always on some type of adventure, whether it’s mini-golfing, lounging at the beach or pool, riding our favorite roller coasters at Six Flags or rocking out to a great live band or concert. These moments of fun and relaxation are a fantastic way to unwind and create lasting memories together.
