Makenna Backstrom

With 7+ years of experience in commercial real estate, Makenna Backstrom specializes in representing industrial occupiers, buyers and Landlords in the Northern Nevada region.  As part of the Colliers Northern Nevada Industrial Team, she combines market expertise with a client-first approach to deliver strategic real estate solutions.

A 5th generation Nevadan and UNR graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing and Finance, Makenna began her career in brokerage marketing before advancing to a full brokerage role, where she has now handled complex transactions for occupiers and institutional landlords.

She currently serves as Chair of Developing Leaders for NAIOP Northern Nevada, and sits on the committee of UNR Alumni Associates, supporting industry growth and mentorship. As a proud mom, Makenna finds purpose in showing her son the value of hard work and pursuing what you love. Outside of work, she enjoys skiing, hiking, and exploring the Reno-Tahoe outdoors with family and friends.

My WILD Why

When I first started in CRE, and more specifically industrial, my first thought was “are women allowed to be brokers?” I was 16, and mostly uneducated about the industry – hence why an association built by women in these strong CRE Industrial roles is important. Industrial real estate has long been a male-dominated space, and while progress is being made, women in this sector often still face unique challenges — from limited representation in leadership roles to a lack of mentorship opportunities. Building a community specifically for women in industrial real estate creates a space where they can connect, collaborate, and grow.

It’s about more than networking — it’s about empowering women to lead with confidence, share knowledge openly, and support one another’s success. A strong association offers visibility, professional development, and advocacy that help level the playing field and drive innovation in the industry.

Most importantly, it sends a message to the next generation: you belong here. By creating a community of women who are visible, vocal, and thriving, we open doors for others — and help shape a more inclusive, dynamic future for industrial real estate.

“In an industry historically driven by men, creating a strong community of women in industrial real estate isn’t just important - it’s powerful, its BOLD. When we support, mentor, and elevate one another, we don’t just open doors for ourselves, we widen the path for future generations.”