CREST: Commercial Real Estate Success Training Program – Deadline March 31, 2026 (but apply now!)

The Commercial Real Estate Success Training (CREST), is a paid internship program designed to introduce people of color and women, both of whom are typically underrepresented, to the commercial real estate industry. Through CREST, firms in the commercial real estate industry have the opportunity to expand their base of potential long-term employees from a diverse pool of highly qualified college students studying in the Boston area and beyond. CREST (as was it’s predecessor program CVP Academy) is dedicated to recruiting, matching, and facilitating paid summer internships for highly qualified minority students and women who are juniors, seniors, and graduate students in colleges and universities.

Program Purpose and Goals

The CREST program was established to address the lack of diversity in the commercial real estate sector by providing paid internship opportunities to academically accomplished college students from diverse backgrounds. The program aims to connect these students with leading firms in the industry, fostering a more inclusive workforce. 

Key Features of the Program

  • Internship Structure: CREST offers a structured internship experience where participants work alongside industry professionals, gaining hands-on experience and valuable skills in commercial real estate. 
  • Skill Development: Interns receive training in professional presentation skills, personal branding, and other essential workplace competencies, enhancing their employability in the real estate sector. 
  • Networking Opportunities: The program facilitates connections between interns and industry leaders, providing networking opportunities that can lead to  future employment. 

Recruitment and Participation

  • Eligibility: The program targets college juniors, seniors, and graduate students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds in the commercial real estate field.  International students are also eligible to apply for the program.
  • Application Process: Interested students can apply through the official CREST  internship website, where they can find details about the recruitment cycle and application requirements. 
  • Impact: Since its inception, CREST has successfully placed numerous interns in  leading firms, contributing to a growing network of professionals in the commercial real estate industry.

The CREST program plays a vital role in promoting diversity and inclusion within the commercial real estate industry by providing meaningful internship experiences for  underrepresented students. Through its comprehensive training and networking  opportunities, CREST aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the field.  For more information, you can visit the official CREST internship website. 

More information can be found on the CREST Website.

You can email your resume and cover letter to Jayson Pugh at jpugh@crestinternship.com

By Sue Atkins
Sue Atkins Associate Director, Employer Relations