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The Connecticut CCIM Chapter welcomed more than 100 commercial real estate professionals to its 2026 Annual Symposium at TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, Connecticut, featuring Bob Knakal, Chairman and CEO of BKREA, as the keynote speaker. The event brought together industry professionals for networking, professional development, and insights on achieving long-term success in commercial real estate.
Knakal shared lessons from his decades-long career in investment sales, focusing on the principles that have contributed to his success, including professional discipline, expertise, passion, and continuous improvement. His presentation offered attendees practical strategies for building sustainable careers and developing the habits necessary to succeed in a competitive industry.
Knakal emphasized the importance of maintaining professional discipline and consistently executing the fundamentals, regardless of market conditions or short-term results.
Developing deep knowledge of the market and continuously improving one's skills allows commercial real estate professionals to differentiate themselves and provide greater value to clients.
One of the most memorable themes from the presentation was the "Pound the Rock" philosophy—the idea that meaningful results come from persistent effort repeated over time.
Knakal encouraged attendees to remain committed to learning, refining their approach, and improving their capabilities throughout their careers.
Rather than focusing solely on transactional sales techniques, Knakal's presentation explored the habits, mindset, and personal standards required to build a successful long-term career.
Knakal's career demonstrates how sustained effort compounds over time. Major accomplishments are built through countless relationships, conversations, transactions, and opportunities.
The principles discussed are relevant to professionals at every stage of their careers, from those beginning in commercial real estate to experienced industry leaders.
Attendee feedback described Knakal's presentation as motivational, authentic, and thought-provoking. Participants particularly highlighted his emphasis on discipline, passion, expertise, and the "Pound the Rock" philosophy.
The presentation stood out because it focused not simply on how to close transactions, but on the habits and mindset necessary to build a successful and sustainable career in commercial real estate.
Each attendee also received a complimentary copy of Knakal's book, $elling Building$, and had the opportunity to meet him during a book signing following the program.
According to Jennifer Lynne, president of the Connecticut CCIM Chapter, the symposium reflected the chapter's commitment to providing meaningful educational opportunities for its members and Connecticut's commercial real estate community.
The CCIM Institute is a leading professional organization for commercial real estate professionals, with more than 9,000 CCIM designees across the United States, Canada, and additional international markets. Its curriculum, networking programs, technology resources, and professional development initiatives support professionals throughout the commercial real estate industry.
Bob Knakal, Chairman and CEO of BKREA, delivered the keynote presentation.
The 2026 Annual Symposium was held at TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, Connecticut.
More than 100 commercial real estate professionals attended the symposium.
Knakal focused on discipline, expertise, passion, continuous improvement, and the importance of persistent effort in achieving long-term professional success.
The philosophy emphasizes persistence and consistency—continuing to put in the work even when immediate results are not visible, knowing that cumulative effort ultimately produces results.
Each attendee received a complimentary copy of Bob Knakal's $elling Building$ and had the opportunity to meet him during a post-event book signing.
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