Lysa Solano
Lysa Solano is the Director of Construction at CIRE Equity, a vertically integrated REIT, where she oversees strategic planning, tenant build-outs, and landlord-funded improvements across industrial, retail, and office properties. With over 12 years of experience in the construction industry, she manages a team of tenant coordinators and collaborates closely with general contractors, architects, and engineers to deliver projects that balance quality, efficiency, and tenant satisfaction. Her portfolio includes major capital improvements as well as customized tenant build-outs, supporting brands like Better Buzz Coffee in Escondido and Everbowl.
Prior to her current role, Lysa honed her expertise at Brixmor Property Group, managing complex retail redevelopments and coordinating tenant improvements across the Western region. Her work spans entitlements, lease compliance, budgeting, scheduling, and operational logistics, allowing her to navigate the challenges of a traditionally male-dominated industry with professionalism and precision. Recognized for her collaborative leadership and attention to detail, she has earned repeated accolades, including being named a Women of Influence in Construction by the San Diego Business Journal for three consecutive years.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Lysa is a passionate advocate for women in commercial real estate. She serves as Treasurer for CREW San Diego and contributes nationally to the CREW Network Audit Committee and Construction Council. Committed to mentorship and leadership development, she actively works to create pathways for women to thrive in construction, emphasizing resilience, integrity, and relationship-driven success.
• AGCA Project Management Certification
• ICSC John T. Riordan School Development and Design Construction Institute Certification
• University of Phoenix - BBA
• Woman of Influence in Construction Award from San Diego Business Journal (2024)
• Woman of Influence in Construction Award from San Diego Business Journal (2025)
• Woman of Influence in Construction Award from San Diego Business Journal (2026)
• Crew San Diego (Board Member)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, adaptability, and the guidance of mentorship. I have been intentional about making my voice heard, learning from the insights of my mentors, and paying it forward by mentoring others in turn.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received was, do not take it personal. This is work, and the work is work, and it will be here when you come in tomorrow. Being that I'm a very passionate person, that served me well, because I'm not gonna lie, when I put my name on something, I do take it personal. But I've learned to tailor that approach and be passionate and still get the job done, but realize that this is business. You treat people how you want to be treated, and you do things with integrity and character, and it will serve you well for the most part. There's always going to be things that go haywire, you can't please everybody, just don't take it personal because it will derail you.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering this industry that there are limitless opportunities in construction today, and the best way to navigate them is through mentorship. Finding someone experienced to guide you, offer support, and help you grow is invaluable, and paying it forward by mentoring others amplifies that impact. Surrounding yourself with peers and mentors who share your values and ambitions creates a strong network that drives collective success, helping you reach your goals while lifting others along the way.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is often being the only woman in the room, which requires resilience and persistence to make your voice heard. Over time, this builds confidence and demonstrates that your contributions are just as valuable. Adapting to challenging situations and staying composed has allowed me to earn respect and make a meaningful impact, even with difficult stakeholders.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, strong character, mentorship, collaboration, resilience, and adaptability.
Locations
CIRE Equity
Valley Center, CA 92082