Sarah Covington Covington will receive the developing leader award this week.

HOUSTON—DCT Industrial Trust’s Sarah Covington will be recognized as a 2016 NAIOP Developing Leader. Covington will be presented with the award at NAIOP’s commercial real estate conference this week in Scottsdale, AZ.

Covington has been selected as one of 21 individuals nationwide to receive the honor. It is awarded to up-and-coming professionals 35 and younger for their exemplary professional accomplishments, strong leadership and community involvement.

“DCT provides the national exposure and local expertise to allow a young professional such as myself to thrive as I continue to establish myself in my career,” Covington tells GlobeSt.com. “In addition to the support I receive at DCT, NAIOP Developing Leaders helps to aid advancement for both myself and those who strive to better themselves in Houston’s competitive real estate environment.” 

She joined DCT Industrial’s Houston team in 2013 and currently serves as Houston’s leasing and project management coordinator. 

“Sarah has been instrumental in DCT Industrial’s success in Houston since joining our team,” said Justin Bennett, Houston senior vice president. “She continues to distinguish herself as a leader within Houston’s real estate community, serving as a role model for other professionals.  We are very pleased that NAIOP has recognized her for her contributions to our industry.”

Established in 2006, the Developing Leaders Award has been given to rising industry professionals from across NAIOP’s chapter network in all sectors of commercial real estate. Applicants for this award must be a member of NAIOP in good standing and are selected based on the criteria of leadership, professional competency, career goals, NAIOP participation and community involvement.  

“I am truly honored to be named as one of NAIOP’s 2016 Developing Leaders,” said Covington. “I joined NAIOP in 2013 when I started with DCT Industrial and quickly knew I wanted to become more involved with the organization. Being a member has not only allowed me to contribute to a respected organization, it has also given me a platform to establish myself in Houston’s commercial real estate industry and mentor others who are beginning their careers.”