What does a 50-year career in affordable housing look like? For Reese Quick, it started with a set of maintenance tools and a red wagon. In this episode of The SAHMA Exchange, we sit down with Reese Quick, Industry Leader, to explore his remarkable journey through more than five decades in the affordable housing industry. From his first maintenance job to leading a company that has grown from 1,700 to more than 6,000 units, Reese shares the lessons, relationships, and values that have shaped his career. We discuss how affordable housing has changed over the years, the impact of technology, the importance of professional networks like SAHMA, and why serving people remains at the heart of the work. Reese also reflects on the moments that have made him most proud, the programs his company offers to support children and families, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned professional, Reese's story offers timeless insights on leadership, service, and building a career that makes a difference.
In this episode:
• How a red wagon launched Reese's affordable housing career
• Getting his start in maintenance and learning the business from the ground up
• Moving from maintenance technician to district manager
• What a typical day looks like for the president of a management company
• The secret to staying passionate about affordable housing after 50 years
• The biggest change Reese has seen in the industry: technology
• Why the people around him helped him adapt and succeed
• How SAHMA has supported his career through networking, education, and problem solving
• The biggest benefit of SAHMA membership
• A career-defining moment: making children happy
• The legacy Reese hopes to leave behind: being fair and being available
• His advice for the next generation of affordable housing professionals