Speakers for the 2026 High Desert Real Estate Symposium
Keynote Speaker
Economic Review and Forecast
Christopher Thornberg, Ph.D. | Beacon Economics, LLC's Founding Partner
Christopher Thornberg is the Founding Partner of Beacon Economics LLC.
Dr. Christopher Thornberg has been called many things throughout his career, but his favorite thing to be called is correct. He founded Beacon Economics in 2007 and the firm quickly made a name for itself as the only major forecast on the West Coast to correctly predict the collapse of the sub-prime real estate bubble and the global recession that followed. More correct calls followed, including predicting the rapid V shaped recovery from the pandemic and the subsequent surge in inflation. Under Dr. Thornberg’s leadership, Beacon Economics has become one of the most respected research organizations in California producing economic forecasts, impact analyses, policy studies, and regional economic analysis for private industry, public agencies, and nonprofits.
With a career rooted in academia, Dr. Thornberg holds a Ph.D. in Business Economics from the Anderson School at UCLA, where he later taught in the MBA program and served as a senior economist with the Anderson Forecast. As a thought-leader and dynamic public speaker, Dr. Thornberg speaks in front of tens of thousands of people every year, urging audiences to ask the right economic questions before accepting pervasive social and political narratives.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Christopher Thornberg.
Christopher Thornberg is the Founding Partner of Beacon Economics LLC.
Dr. Christopher Thornberg has been called many things throughout his career, but his favorite thing to be called is correct. He founded Beacon Economics in 2007 and the firm quickly made a name for itself as the only major forecast on the West Coast to correctly predict the collapse of the sub-prime real estate bubble and the global recession that followed. More correct calls followed, including predicting the rapid V shaped recovery from the pandemic and the subsequent surge in inflation. Under Dr. Thornberg’s leadership, Beacon Economics has become one of the most respected research organizations in California producing economic forecasts, impact analyses, policy studies, and regional economic analysis for private industry, public agencies, and nonprofits.
With a career rooted in academia, Dr. Thornberg holds a Ph.D. in Business Economics from the Anderson School at UCLA, where he later taught in the MBA program and served as a senior economist with the Anderson Forecast. As a thought-leader and dynamic public speaker, Dr. Thornberg speaks in front of tens of thousands of people every year, urging audiences to ask the right economic questions before accepting pervasive social and political narratives.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Christopher Thornberg.
Community Panel
Dan Spiegel | Managing Director Coldwell Banker Commercial Worldwide
Dan Spiegel leads the global operations of Coldwell Banker Commercial ®, one of the most recognized brands in the real estate industry. As senior vice president and managing director, Dan implements strategic initiatives that support a network of over 3,000 commercial real estate professionals spanning in 171 companies throughout North America and the world.
Dan Spiegel leads the global operations of Coldwell Banker Commercial ®, one of the most recognized brands in the real estate industry. As senior vice president and managing director, Dan implements strategic initiatives that support a network of over 3,000 commercial real estate professionals spanning in 171 companies throughout North America and the world.
Silvia Urenda | Assistant Director of Economic Development Town of Apple Valley
Silvia Urenda has nearly 11 years of public sector experience with the Town of Apple Valley, including 10 years overseeing the Town’s Housing Department and managing a variety of federal and state housing grant programs. Throughout her career, she has also worked with the Town’s Planning, Public Works, and Economic Development departments, project managing capital projects and gaining a well-rounded understanding of municipal processes and community development.
As Assistant Director of Economic Development and Housing, Silvia combines her public service experience with a solid academic background, holding a bachelor’s degree in business management
and a master’s degree in executive management with studies focused on Financial Economics. Her professional perspective is further strengthened by her ties to the local community as an Apple Valley High graduate and current resident, as well as her experience co-owning a construction business and managing multiple real estate properties throughout the High Desert. Silvia is committed to serving the community through strong leadership, practical experience, and bilingual communication skills that support and connect with Apple Valley’s growing, diverse population.
Silvia Urenda has nearly 11 years of public sector experience with the Town of Apple Valley, including 10 years overseeing the Town’s Housing Department and managing a variety of federal and state housing grant programs. Throughout her career, she has also worked with the Town’s Planning, Public Works, and Economic Development departments, project managing capital projects and gaining a well-rounded understanding of municipal processes and community development.
As Assistant Director of Economic Development and Housing, Silvia combines her public service experience with a solid academic background, holding a bachelor’s degree in business management
and a master’s degree in executive management with studies focused on Financial Economics. Her professional perspective is further strengthened by her ties to the local community as an Apple Valley High graduate and current resident, as well as her experience co-owning a construction business and managing multiple real estate properties throughout the High Desert. Silvia is committed to serving the community through strong leadership, practical experience, and bilingual communication skills that support and connect with Apple Valley’s growing, diverse population.
Mica Schuler | Economic Development Administrator, City of Victorville
With over 20 years of experience in the municipal sector, Mica Schuler currently serves with the City of Victorville overseeing the Economic Development, Housing, and Homelessness Solutions divisions. She leads strategic initiatives and partnerships that support real estate development, infrastructure investment, and economic growth, working closely with developers and regional stakeholders to move projects from concept through completion.
Her experience includes advancing large-scale industrial and commercial development, implementing business incentive and support programs, and guiding over 11 million square feet of development. She also led the implementation of California’s largest Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD) in partnership with Los Angeles County, establishing a long-term funding mechanism to support infrastructure and job creation.
With over 20 years of experience in the municipal sector, Mica Schuler currently serves with the City of Victorville overseeing the Economic Development, Housing, and Homelessness Solutions divisions. She leads strategic initiatives and partnerships that support real estate development, infrastructure investment, and economic growth, working closely with developers and regional stakeholders to move projects from concept through completion.
Her experience includes advancing large-scale industrial and commercial development, implementing business incentive and support programs, and guiding over 11 million square feet of development. She also led the implementation of California’s largest Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD) in partnership with Los Angeles County, establishing a long-term funding mechanism to support infrastructure and job creation.
Brett Matsuura | Vice President, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC
Brett has worked with different Anywhere brands beginning in 2017 and joined Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC in 2023. Brett was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah. grew up with a passion for Martial Arts, and his first independent contractor job was being the head instructor of a local marital arts studio which is also where he found his passion for teaching. He found it rewarding to help people achieve their goals. He currently live in Orange County, California with his wonderful wife, and two amazing children.
Brett has worked with different Anywhere brands beginning in 2017 and joined Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC in 2023. Brett was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah. grew up with a passion for Martial Arts, and his first independent contractor job was being the head instructor of a local marital arts studio which is also where he found his passion for teaching. He found it rewarding to help people achieve their goals. He currently live in Orange County, California with his wonderful wife, and two amazing children.
Chris Lamoreaux | Broker and Owner, Coldwell Banker Home Source
Chris Lamoreaux, Broker/Owner of Coldwell Banker Home Source, leads the top residential real estate company in the High Desert, with 6 locations and over $500 million in sales. With over 34 years of executive experience, Chris has grown the company to over 318 agents and remains at the forefront of the region’s real estate market. As a resident of Apple Valley, CA she is an active contributor to the community, including serving as a Board of Director for the High Desert Association of Realtors and the Police Activities League Apple Valley and involved in the various High Desert chambers of commerce.
Chris Lamoreaux, Broker/Owner of Coldwell Banker Home Source, leads the top residential real estate company in the High Desert, with 6 locations and over $500 million in sales. With over 34 years of executive experience, Chris has grown the company to over 318 agents and remains at the forefront of the region’s real estate market. As a resident of Apple Valley, CA she is an active contributor to the community, including serving as a Board of Director for the High Desert Association of Realtors and the Police Activities League Apple Valley and involved in the various High Desert chambers of commerce.
Rachel Molina | City Manager of Hesperia
Throughout her tenure, Molina has led the city's community outreach and communication efforts, and analyzed complex policies and programs, city officials said. She has also presented recommendations to the city council on various issues, including emergency management, legislative priorities and capital improvement projects. Molina earned her bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership from Chapman University and her master’s degree in public administration from California Baptist University.
Throughout her tenure, Molina has led the city's community outreach and communication efforts, and analyzed complex policies and programs, city officials said. She has also presented recommendations to the city council on various issues, including emergency management, legislative priorities and capital improvement projects. Molina earned her bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership from Chapman University and her master’s degree in public administration from California Baptist University.
Kenneth Chapa I Assistant City Manager of Barstow
Kenneth brings nearly 20 years of public sector leadership experience focused on economic
development, strategic planning, and cross-municipal partnerships across California, Arizona,
Michigan, and Nevada. Most recently, he served as Director of Economic Development for the City of
San Bernardino, where he led key economic initiatives, increased department staffing by 50 percent,
and managed a $3.1 million annual budget. Previously in Avondale, Arizona, he developed the city’s
first tourism strategic plan and spearheaded a historic $6 billion technology investment deal, earning
multiple awards, including 2022 Economic Developer of the Year from the Arizona Association of Economic Development. His background also includes executive roles with the City of Henderson, Nevada, and the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, where he managed major development agreements and strengthened business retention and attraction efforts. In his new role, he will support the Barstow City Manager in overseeing operations and advancing the city’s economic growth and community collaboration initiatives.
Kenneth brings nearly 20 years of public sector leadership experience focused on economic
development, strategic planning, and cross-municipal partnerships across California, Arizona,
Michigan, and Nevada. Most recently, he served as Director of Economic Development for the City of
San Bernardino, where he led key economic initiatives, increased department staffing by 50 percent,
and managed a $3.1 million annual budget. Previously in Avondale, Arizona, he developed the city’s
first tourism strategic plan and spearheaded a historic $6 billion technology investment deal, earning
multiple awards, including 2022 Economic Developer of the Year from the Arizona Association of Economic Development. His background also includes executive roles with the City of Henderson, Nevada, and the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, where he managed major development agreements and strengthened business retention and attraction efforts. In his new role, he will support the Barstow City Manager in overseeing operations and advancing the city’s economic growth and community collaboration initiatives.
Jason Lamoreaux | Broker and President, Coldwell Banker Commercial (CBC) Real Estate Solutions
Jason Lamoreaux is a lifelong entrepreneur whose passion for business began at 14. By 19, he made his first real estate investment, setting the foundation for a successful career. Since 1991, he and his wife, Chris, have launched multiple ventures, including a car rental company with 15 locations and $40 million in annual revenue, a portable storage business in Canada, and a growing real estate investment firm.
Recognizing a gap in commercial real estate service, Jason founded Coldwell Banker Commercial in 2008. Within a year, it became the High Desert’s top brokerage and property management firm, a position it still holds. In 2010, he and Chris expanded into residential real estate with Coldwell Banker Home Source, now the region’s largest firm with six offices. In 2018, they launched Touchstone Escrow, Inc., further enhancing client services.
Beyond business, Jason is deeply involved in his community. He serves on multiple boards, including the Victor Valley College Foundation and Providence St. Mary Medical Center, and is a past president of the Rotary Club of Apple Valley. He also founded the Coldwell Banker Home Makeover Giveaway and Pet Adoption Drive.
A respected industry leader, Jason frequently speaks at regional events and publishes High Desert MarketWatch, offering insights into market trends.
Jason Lamoreaux is a lifelong entrepreneur whose passion for business began at 14. By 19, he made his first real estate investment, setting the foundation for a successful career. Since 1991, he and his wife, Chris, have launched multiple ventures, including a car rental company with 15 locations and $40 million in annual revenue, a portable storage business in Canada, and a growing real estate investment firm.
Recognizing a gap in commercial real estate service, Jason founded Coldwell Banker Commercial in 2008. Within a year, it became the High Desert’s top brokerage and property management firm, a position it still holds. In 2010, he and Chris expanded into residential real estate with Coldwell Banker Home Source, now the region’s largest firm with six offices. In 2018, they launched Touchstone Escrow, Inc., further enhancing client services.
Beyond business, Jason is deeply involved in his community. He serves on multiple boards, including the Victor Valley College Foundation and Providence St. Mary Medical Center, and is a past president of the Rotary Club of Apple Valley. He also founded the Coldwell Banker Home Makeover Giveaway and Pet Adoption Drive.
A respected industry leader, Jason frequently speaks at regional events and publishes High Desert MarketWatch, offering insights into market trends.
Jerrad Schendel | Vice President of Commercial Investments, Coldwell Banker Commercial
Jerrad Schendel started his real estate career after graduating from the University of Nevada Las Vegas in 2012 with a BSBA in Business Administration and Entrepreneurship. Jerrad has been around real estate his whole life, his family has over 30 years of real estate brokerage and property management experience throughout Southern California, Utah and Wyoming. Jerrad first began consulting for private equity groups to purchase distressed properties for re-introduction into the market. Prior to his real estate career Jerrad was an Executive Director of a non-profit where he was invited by the Department of Interior to discuss policy for the best use of government land.
Jerrad Schendel started his real estate career after graduating from the University of Nevada Las Vegas in 2012 with a BSBA in Business Administration and Entrepreneurship. Jerrad has been around real estate his whole life, his family has over 30 years of real estate brokerage and property management experience throughout Southern California, Utah and Wyoming. Jerrad first began consulting for private equity groups to purchase distressed properties for re-introduction into the market. Prior to his real estate career Jerrad was an Executive Director of a non-profit where he was invited by the Department of Interior to discuss policy for the best use of government land.
Jessie Flores| City Manager of Adelanto
Jessie serves as the City Manager of Adelanto, leveraging extensive experience in both the public and private sectors to improve the quality of life for Adelanto residents. For over a decade, he served as a Senior Field Representative for the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors, working with communities and leaders at local, state, and federal levels to resolve constituent issues and foster economic development. Jessie has also served as a Planning Commissioner and as an economic development representative for one of San Bernardino County’s fastest-growing cities. A proud U.S. Army veteran, Jessie served in West Germany, where he witnessed the end of the Cold War in Berlin. He later deployed to the Middle East during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, serving in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq. With his proven leadership, strategic vision, and results-driven approach, Jessie continues to deliver impactful solutions that benefit the community.
Jessie serves as the City Manager of Adelanto, leveraging extensive experience in both the public and private sectors to improve the quality of life for Adelanto residents. For over a decade, he served as a Senior Field Representative for the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors, working with communities and leaders at local, state, and federal levels to resolve constituent issues and foster economic development. Jessie has also served as a Planning Commissioner and as an economic development representative for one of San Bernardino County’s fastest-growing cities. A proud U.S. Army veteran, Jessie served in West Germany, where he witnessed the end of the Cold War in Berlin. He later deployed to the Middle East during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, serving in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq. With his proven leadership, strategic vision, and results-driven approach, Jessie continues to deliver impactful solutions that benefit the community.