Credential Holder Spotlight: Matt Steele, CAPS

Biography 

Matt brings over 13 years of managing multiple projects, growing revenue, and exceeding goals through strategic problem-solving. His experience in managing a diverse group of individuals has resulted in multiple staff promotions and consistent achievement of financial and operational objectives. Since 2015, Matt has been overseeing a variety of communities for Thrive, both in the greater Puget Sound as well as the Washington, DC market. He is involved in WMFHA's Government Affairs Committee and is an active volunteer with Seattle Children's Hospital. Matt is an avid golfer as well as Husky and Seahawks fan in his spare time.

What inspired you to get your credential?

I felt that by having my CAPS, I'd be able to provide a more well-rounded background to both my teams and my company. There are so many aspects to understand in operating a portfolio of communities, from accounting to human resources to building construction to customer service and simple time management amongst many others, that it is imperative that I be able to direct or resolve matters quickly. The program also allowed for me to better connect with peers across the industry, creating additional resources for both myself and others.

How has your CAPS credential added value to your career?

Having the CAPS credential has allowed me to learn from the knowledge base of my peers, better understand industry standards and coach teams in a manner that they will be able to take with them throughout their careers. This designation has also allowed me to increase my contributions to my company as well as improve my involvement in industry events and initiatives.

With a heavy focus on education and career development, I've been able to talk with my teams about the importance of investing in their own growth, with a number of individuals getting designations through WMFHA.