Team

Mr. Wessels serves as the Executive Director for Architects Incorporated. As a Design Director and Business Development leader with 32 years of experience in the AEC industry, he has successfully led high-performing teams in delivering the highest quality environments. He brings a global and national perspective, having delivered a diverse portfolio of over 150 projects in multiple national markets and internationally. He successfully established an international office in Singapore where he lived and worked for 12 years – completing over $4 billion in projects. Throughout his career he has established trustworthy relationships with over 100 clients, delivering over 50 million SF of projects with a combined $18 billion in construction value. He graduated from the USC School of Architecture.

Ilya is the Principal Architect at Southern California Equity Inc., bringing over 25 years of experience in commercial real estate with a focus on creative spaces, entertainment production facilities, and digital technology environments. A licensed architect in the state of California since 2012, he works closely with the Director of Real Estate to deliver well-crafted, sustainably designed properties that incorporate efficiency, fact-based planning, and fast-paced project scheduling and execution. Prior to joining SCE, Ilya held senior leadership roles at the acclaimed architecture firm Donaldson Partners, where he developed a strong foundation in both technical design and executive management. He earned his Bachelor of Architecture from Woodbury University in 1998. At SCE, he leads the architecture studio, overseeing all phases of the design process, from concept development through construction administration. Ilya has collaborated with SCE founder Mr. Laureano for more than 15 years, building a trusted professional partnership across a wide range of successful real estate investment strategies.

Heather is a seasoned executive with a strong emphasis on business acumen, strategic problem-solving, and leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Hospitality Business from Michigan State University's Eli Broad College of Business (1998), which equipped her with valuable strategic and analytical problem solving skills.

Throughout her professional career, she has excelled as a leader, prioritizing mentorship and team development. As a Director for Aramark in both Kentucky and Michigan, she efficiently integrated strategic insights, fostering a culture of excellence.

Heather's leadership experience has been instrumental at elite brands such as Macy’s as an Executive Manager, overseeing multiple departments in both Michigan and California. She thrives in diverse operational areas, making strategic decisions to drive results while maintaining a positive energy and environment.

As a finance expert and mentor for ten units spanning the West Coast and Hawaii at Macy's, she showcased financial expertise while nurturing team members to reach their full potential.

In addition to her professional achievements, she has actively contributed to her community by serving as treasurer for multiple community organizations including the Redondo Beach Council Parent Teacher Association.

Heather is a confident executive with a strong focus on business acumen, investor experience, and managing teams through personnel specific leadership. Her commitment to mentoring and team development positions her to enhance Southern California Equity efficiency, drive growth, and achieve fund success.