Thomas Hester

Biography: Tom Hester strategically integrates land use and transportation into the design of great places that enhance quality of life and leverage economic development. With over 30 years of experience, Tom has earned a national reputation for his ability to help public and private sector clients strategically position redevelopment projects and improve their overall performance and viability. His ability to work at regional, urban design and architectural scales has added value to a diverse range of project types. His thorough understanding of the complex issues that affect well-developed and marketable projects has contributed to their successful outcomes. His strong leadership and management skills have helped diverse groups build consensus and attain project goals. Tom brings effectual skills in TOD station area planning, policy and zoning development, public and private partnerships, real estate finance and development, community planning, and transportation planning to his projects. His commitment to his profession and expertise of best practices as garnered awards for his projects and has allowed him to speak, teach, publish, and work worldwide. In addition, Tom is currently involved with many professional organizations and serves on the Rail~Volution national steering committee and the Arizona ULI Technical Assistance Panel Committee. Tom earned a Master of Architecture in Urban Design (MAUD) from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design where he earned top honors for leadership and academic studies, and a Bachelor of Architecture (BARCH) from California State Polytechnic University in Pomona. He has taught architecture, urban design and planning, and is an active member of the Urban Land Institute (ULI) where he has participated in a number of forums and Advisory Services Panels as well as taught at their Real Estate School.