Applications for the 2027 LDC Class open August 21, 2026 and close Friday, September 25th by 5PM CT. APPLY NOW!
What is LDC?
​RECA is committed to cultivating future leaders in order to ensure that RECA will continue to be led by a diverse group of real estate professionals with extensive knowledge of Austin, the surrounding communities and the real estate issues facing these areas. RECA's Leadership Development Council (LDC) program is a one-year leadership development program, and applications are accepted in the fall with final decisions being made in late November. Class members will participate in the following:
  • LDC Orientation and Overnight Retreat: LDC class members will meet and participate in leadership training during an overnight retreat that will take place in late January or early February.
  • Lunch & Learns: Class members will learn about different subjects relevant to the commercial real estate industry, including economic development, affordability, political strategy and transportation.
  • Civic Engagement Project: Class members will attend select Planning Commission and City Council meetings with RECA Policy & Advocacy staff, engage in discussion to demonstrate their understanding of the processes and topics covered and how they are connected to our industry, and assist and/or follow relevant issues as they arise.
  • Mentor Program: Each class member will be assigned a mentor from RECA’s leadership and are expected to meet at least quarterly. RECA will also host quarterly Mentor Breakfasts that all class members should plan to attend.
  • Christmas in October: The LDC class will participate in a special fundraising or other project for RECA’s annual Christmas in October philanthropy event, with a goal of $1,500 raised for each class member.
  • RECA Event Attendance: Class tuition includes a complimentary registration to the RECA Award Reception in December. Attendance at other RECA events, such as luncheons, happy hours, committee meetings, and REAL YP programming is not mandatory, but is strongly encouraged.
LDC Selection Criteria and Requirements
  • You must be 35 years old or younger at the time you apply. 
  • You must be a RECA member for at least the 6 months before you apply. 
  • The cost of the 2026 LDC program is $950 per participant and must be paid in full before January 31, 2026. The LDC tuition fee is due only for applicants who are accepted into the LDC class.
  • Participants should be prepared to work on LDC-related activities for at least 5-8 hours per month.
  • Attendance at the overnight retreat is required. Outside of that, class members are allowed only three excused absences. If you miss more than three programs, you may be asked to withdraw from the class.

How to Prepare to Apply for LDC
  • Discuss your interest to apply for LDC with your supervisor prior to submission to ensure your company's support of your candidacy. 
  • When applying, applicants will be required to submit an application. Applications open in August and close in September. 
  • In addition to their application, all LDC Applicants will be judged on their RECA Involvement (Committees, Event attendance, etc) over a 12 month period. 
  • Be on the lookout in our event calendar for the reoccurring REAL YP: All About LDC program, which happens every August, the day before applications open. Then join us at the program to hear about the program and how to stand out in your application.   

Questions about the application process? Please contact, RECA Director of Membership, Tabitha Sutter.

Applications for the 2026 LDC Class are OPEN! APPLY NOW
Applications for the 2027 LDC Class open August 21, 2026 and close Friday, September 25th by 5PM CT.
2026 LDC Program Sponsor
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