Movers and Shakers Week Ending 05.30.25

BMC Investments Adds Rebecca Arnold as Vice President of Asset Management

Rebecca Arnold

BMC Investments (“BMC”), a Denver-based vertically integrated real estate firm, announced that Rebecca Arnold has joined the firm as vice president of asset management.

Arnold will be responsible for overseeing the execution of business plans across BMC’s portfolio of Class A mixed-use, office, retail, and multifamily assets. She brings nearly 15 years of experience in asset management, investments, finance and development, with a background spanning a wide range of asset types, including industrial, hospitality, and marinas, representing more than $2 billion in combined value.

“We couldn’t be more excited to have Rebecca and her wealth of experience join BMC Investments,” said Erin Little, partner and chief financial officer at BMC. “Her deep expertise across multiple asset classes will be a tremendous resource as we continue to expand and diversify our portfolio.”

Before joining BMC, Arnold led asset management and acquisition initiatives for mixed-use, office, retail, industrial and multifamily developments at ScanlanKemperBard. Her previous experience also includes roles at NorthMarq Capital and Imperial Ridge Real Estate Capital, where she arranged debt and equity financing for multifamily, office, retail and hospitality properties. She also worked at Related California, gaining hands-on experience in multifamily development. Arnold began her real estate career in acquisitions at Suntex Marinas. She holds a Master of Business Administration in real estate and finance from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Arts in public policy and Spanish from Duke University.

“I am honored to join the BMC team,” said Arnold. “The opportunity to contribute to the execution of strategic business initiatives across the firm’s Class A portfolio is exciting. I look forward to making a meaningful contribution and supporting the continued growth and success of BMC.”Arnold is the latest addition to BMC’s expanding leadership team, following the recent hires of Kristen Link and Mitch Kelln. She joins the firm at a pivotal time, as BMC continues to grow its presence in the Denver metro area with six projects currently under construction and four recent acquisitions within its Multifamily Value Add Fund I. Among these is Cherry Lane, the largest redevelopment project in Cherry Creek North

Encore Electric Announces Derek Varnell as Vice President of Data Centers

Derek Varnell

Encore Electric has announced Derek Varnell as vice president of data centers. In his new role, Varnell will oversee all data center construction and support Encore Electric’s data center project teams. Varnell will work alongside Scott Larson and JR Bond, Encore Electric’s vice presidents of business units.

“It has been an honor to work with such an amazing team for the entirety of my career. To be a part of this team and witness the growth through determination and strength has been unimaginably exciting,” Varnell said. “I have been very fortunate in my career to be surrounded by incredibly smart professionals and am humbled by our team’s ability and devotion. As we continue to navigate the market of data center construction, I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us all.”

“Derek’s experience over the past decade has prepared him for this next step in his career. His proficiency in collaborating with our customers and supporting project teams has significantly contributed to our expansion in the data center construction market. We are excited to see where his leadership will take us in the future,” said Encore Electric President Andy Gordon.

Varnell has been with Encore Electric for 18 years and has been a leader in the development of data centers in Northern Colorado and Wyoming. In 2020, Varnell was promoted to director of the Northern Business Unit, and since led and developed the Northern team while simultaneously managing complex and highly technical electrical data center projects in Washington, Texas, Utah, and Iowa.

“It’s very exciting to have Derek focused on data centers in all areas. His leadership, strong understanding of the data center industry and market, as well as his relationships will benefit all Encore Electric customers in the data center space,” said Wade Stencel, Encore Electric chief operating officer.

Varnell is a Colorado native who started his career at Encore Electric as an intern while completing his degree in construction management at Colorado State University. After graduating, Varnell became a project engineer and has since grown his career to hold multiple leadership positions within Encore Electric.

Howell Construction Promotes Chris Bernhardy to Preconstruction Manager

Chris Bernhardy

Howell Construction announced the promotion of Chris Bernhardy to the position of preconstruction manager. This advancement reflects the company’s continued commitment to recognizing and rewarding exceptional talent and leadership.

Bernhardy joined Howell Construction in 2022 as an estimator and has since played an integral role in the success of numerous projects. With a strong background in cost analysis, risk assessment, and strategic planning, he has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of project development and client needs.

“Chris has continually shown initiative, leadership, and a results-driven approach to every project,” said Todd Berry, vice president at Howell Construction. “His promotion to preconstruction manager is a testament to the value he brings to our team and the trust they’ve earned across departments and clients alike.”

As Preconstruction Manager, Bernhardy will oversee project specific preconstruction activities, including budgeting, scheduling, team coordination, and client collaboration during the planning and design phases. He will work closely with internal teams and external partners to ensure a seamless transition from project conception to construction start.

“Construction sets the tone for a successful project,” said Bernhardy. “I’m excited to guide our preconstruction efforts with a sharp focus on early alignment, transparency, and delivering solutions that position our clients and partners for success.”

This promotion marks a key step in Howell’s strategic development, reinforcing its dedication to delivering excellence through empowered leadership and expert project planning.

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