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About the Certificate Program
The Right of Way Certificate Program was developed in collaboration between the College of Business of the University of Houston Downtown and Contract Land Staff, LLC.
The first of its kind, university sponsored Right of Way Certificate Program will focus on the Private Sector of the Right of Way industry. The curriculum for the program was developed by working professionals in the field and will be taught by highly experienced Private Sector Right of Way professionals. This certificate will provide those interested in entering the Right of Way profession a vehicle to enhance their skills and improve their chances of joining this exciting field.
The courses within this Certificate Program have all been approved for Recertification Credits by the International Right of Way Association (IRWA).
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Prospective Students: |
General Information
The Right of Way Certificate Program is for those persons desiring to pursue a career in Right of Way related activities, enhancing skills of those who are in Right of Way, and will provide Recertification CEU’s for IRWA members.
The curriculum consists of six modules, each module consisting of two classes taught twice a month on designated Fridays and Saturdays over a three month period.
Each module will provide 16 hours of in-class instruction, the ROW Certificate Program totaling 96 active classroom hours. Students must be present for both days of instruction to gain credit for the module. To successfully complete each course, the student must achieve a passing grade on a competency exam given each afternoon before the close of the class. If needed, the student will have several opportunities to demonstrate competency for each course. Once the student has demonstrated competency for all 13 courses, the Right of Way Certificate will be awarded by the University of Houston-Downtown College of Business. Also, the courses within this Certificate Program have all been approved for Recertification Credits by the International Right of Way Association (IRWA).
This comprehensive and foundational program was developed in response to the void that exists in the Right of Way Industry regarding training specifically designed for the Private Sector. The courses contain the exact issues, tasks, challenges, strategies and hands-on information acquired by ROW Professionals in the field that are so very necessary for anyone who plans on working in the Private Sector of ROW. Additionally, CLS has for years had a steady stream of inquiries requesting training due to the fact that the CLS-Professional Development Institute (PDI) has long provided a wide-range of training for its employees, many of its clients, and a large number of IRWA members, all of these trainings being designed and tailored to the specific needs of a given project, client and/or IRWA members.
Faculty for the ROW Certificate Program will be proven instructors from the CLS-Professional Development Institute along with guest faculty who have special expertise in a specific area of the ROW Private Sector and are known for their teaching excellence. All of these professionals are known experts in their field with many years of experience in various sections of the Right of Way Industry.
Be part of this exciting new program by registering today!
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ROW Certification Program |
Schedule and COurses
Class Schedule For 2013-14
The six course program consists of the following:
COURSE SCHEDULE – CYCLE 3, 2013 |
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Date |
Module |
Title |
In Class Instruction |
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02/08/13 Friday |
1 |
Right of Way and The Energy Industry: The Facts, The Challenges, The Needs |
8 hours |
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02/09/13 Saturday |
1 |
Steps and Stages of Projects |
8 hours |
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02/22/13 Friday |
2 |
Electric Projects: Transmission & Distribution |
8 hours |
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02/23/13 Saturday |
2 |
Pipeline Projects: Oil and Gas Products |
8 hours |
||
03/08/13 Friday |
3 |
Shale Projects: Gold Rush Fever in Right of Way Today |
4 hours |
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03/08/13 Friday |
3 |
A Career in Right of Way |
4 hours |
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03/09/13 Saturday |
3 |
Good Faith Negotiations & Landowner Relationships |
8 hours |
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03/22/13 Friday |
4 |
Title – Part I: Understanding Ownership, Research Process and Assembling Title Files |
8 hours |
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03/23/13 Saturday |
4 |
Title – Part II: Legal Descriptions, Plotting Field Notes, Due Diligence |
8 hours |
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04/12/13 Friday |
5 |
Technology Solutions: Data Management, GIS & the Cloud |
8 hours |
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04/13/13 Saturday |
5 |
Documents-Documents-Documents: The Variety and Necessity in Right of Way |
8 hours |
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04/19/13 Friday |
6 |
Appraisals and Right of Way |
8 hours |
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04/20/13 Saturday |
6 |
Real Estate Law and Right of Way |
8 hours |
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Total Course Hours |
96 hours |
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*Dates are tentative and subject to change without notice |
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COURSE SCHEDULE – CYCLE 4, 2013 |
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Date* |
Module |
Title |
In Class Instruction |
||
05/03/13 Friday |
1 |
Right of Way and The Energy Industry: The Facts, The Challenges, The Needs |
8 hours |
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05/04/13 Saturday |
1 |
Steps and Stages of Projects |
8 hours |
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05/17/13 Friday |
2 |
Electric Projects: Transmission & Distribution |
8 hours |
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05/18/13 Saturday |
2 |
Pipeline Projects: Oil and Gas Products |
8 hours |
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06/14/13 Friday |
3 |
Shale Projects: Gold Rush Fever in Right of Way Today |
4 hours |
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06/14/13 Friday |
3 |
A Career in Right of Way |
4 hours |
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06/15/13 Saturday |
3 |
Good Faith Negotiations & Landowner Relationships |
8 hours |
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06/28/13 Friday |
4 |
Title – Part I: Understanding Ownership, Research Process and Assembling Title Files |
8 hours |
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06/29/13 Saturday |
4 |
Title – Part II: Legal Descriptions, Plotting Field Notes, Due Diligence |
8 hours |
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07/12/13 Friday |
5 |
Technology Solutions: Data Management, GIS & the Cloud |
8 hours |
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07/13/13 Saturday |
5 |
Documents-Documents-Documents: The Variety and Necessity in Right of Way |
8 hours |
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07/26/13 Friday |
6 |
Real Estate Law and Right of Way |
8 hours |
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07/27/13 Saturday |
6 |
Appraisals and Right of Way |
8 hours |
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Total Course Hours |
96 hours |
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*Dates are tentative and subject to change without notice |
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COURSE SCHEDULE – CYCLE 5, 2013 |
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Date* |
Module |
Title |
In Class Instruction |
||
08/09/13 Friday |
1 |
Right of Way and The Energy Industry: The Facts, The Challenges, The Needs |
8 hours |
||
08/10/13 Saturday |
1 |
Steps and Stages of Projects |
8 hours |
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08/23/13 Friday |
2 |
Electric Projects: Transmission & Distribution |
8 hours |
||
08/24/13 Saturday |
2 |
Pipeline Projects: Oil and Gas Products |
8 hours |
||
09/13/13 Friday |
3 |
Shale Projects: Gold Rush Fever in Right of Way Today |
4 hours |
||
09/13/13 Friday |
3 |
A Career in Right of Way |
4 hours |
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09/14/13 Saturday |
3 |
Good Faith Negotiations & Landowner Relationships |
8 hours |
||
09/27/13 Friday |
4 |
Title – Part I: Understanding Ownership, Research Process and Assembling Title Files |
8 hours |
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09/28/13 Saturday |
4 |
Title – Part II: Legal Descriptions, Plotting Field Notes, Due Diligence |
8 hours |
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10/11/13 Friday |
5 |
Technology Solutions: Data Management, GIS & the Cloud |
8 hours |
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10/12/13 Saturday |
5 |
Documents-Documents-Documents: The Variety and Necessity in Right of Way |
8 hours |
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10/25/13 Friday |
6 |
Real Estate Law and Right of Way |
8 hours |
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10/26/13 Saturday |
6 |
Appraisals and Right of Way |
8 hours |
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Total Course Hours |
96 hours |
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*Dates are tentative and subject to change without notice |
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COURSE SCHEDULE – CYCLE 6, 2013-14 |
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Date* |
Module |
Title |
In Class Instruction |
||
11/08/13 Friday |
1 |
Right of Way and The Energy Industry: The Facts, The Challenges, The Needs |
8 hours |
||
11/09/13 Saturday |
1 |
Steps and Stages of Projects |
8 hours |
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12/06/13 Friday |
2 |
Electric Projects: Transmission & Distribution |
8 hours |
||
12/07/13 Saturday |
2 |
Pipeline Projects: Oil and Gas Products |
8 hours |
||
01/10/14 Friday |
3 |
Shale Projects: Gold Rush Fever in Right of Way Today |
4 hours |
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01/10/14 Friday |
3 |
A Career in Right of Way |
4 hours |
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01/11/14 Saturday |
3 |
Good Faith Negotiations & Landowner Relationships |
8 hours |
||
01/24/14 Friday |
4 |
Title – Part I: Understanding Ownership, Research Process and Assembling Title Files |
8 hours |
||
01/25/14 Saturday |
4 |
Title – Part II: Legal Descriptions, Plotting Field Notes, Due Diligence |
8 hours |
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02/07/14 Friday |
5 |
Technology Solutions: Data Management, GIS & the Cloud |
8 hours |
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02/08/14 Saturday |
5 |
Documents-Documents-Documents: The Variety and Necessity in Right of Way |
8 hours |
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02/21/14 Friday |
6 |
Real Estate Law and Right of Way |
8 hours |
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02/22/14 Saturday |
6 |
Appraisals and Right of Way |
8 hours |
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Total Course Hours |
96 hours |
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*Dates are tentative and subject to change without notice |
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Class Times
Fridays & Saturdays 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.
Cost and Registration
Registration is being handled by the University of Houston–Downtown College of Business at a cost of $500.00 per module. This price includes the workbooks needed for each individual class. You cannot register for a course once course has started.
Cancellation/Refund Policy
Ten (10) business days are required for rescheduling or canceling any class in order to receive a full refund minus a processing fee of $50. Cancellations or reschedules under ten (10) business days from the class start date will not result in a refund, but the amount can be applied to another class. Any and all fees paid toward classes cancelled by University of Houston - Downtown will be promptly refunded or applied to a later class date at the customer’s discretion. All registrations will be confirmed.
Curriculum of the Certificate Program
To receive the Right of Way Acquisition Certificate, the following six modules (13 classes) must be completed:
Module One - Principles
o Right of Way and the Energy Industry: The Facts, The Challenges, The Needs (8 hrs)
o Steps and Stages of Projects (8 hrs)
Module Two - Projects
o Electric Projects: Transmission & Distribution (8 hrs)
o Pipeline Projects: Oil & Gas Products (8 hrs)
Module Three - Scope
o Shale Projects: Gold Rush Fever in Right of Way Today (4 hrs)
o A Career in Right of Way (4 hrs)
o Good Faith Negotiations & Landowner Relationships (8 hrs)
Module Four - Title
o Title Part I: Understanding Ownership, Research Process and Assembling Title Files (8 hrs)
o Title Part II: Legal Descriptions, Plotting Field Notes, Due Diligence (8 hrs)
Module Five - Technology & Documentation
o Documents-Documents-Documents: The Variety and Necessity in Right of Way (8 hrs)
o Technology Solutions: Data Management, GIS & the Cloud (8 hrs)
Module Six - Laws & Appraisals
o Real Estate Law and Right of Way (8 hrs)
o Appraisals & Right of Way (8 hrs)
Description of Each Course
MODULE ONE
RIGHT OF WAY AND THE ENERGY INDUSTRY: THE FACTS, THE CHALLENGES, THE NEEDS
This introduction to the Right of Way Industry (ROW) and the role it plays in the Energy Market takes a look at the various Energy Markets, the challenges they face and the drivers for change. This session will present an introduction to the role of Right of Way in support of the overall Energy Industry and its various segments, the challenges faced and the drivers for change. It will give the attendees an overview of the current and historical place of Right of Way in meeting the energy needs of the country. It will also address the public sector – roads, highways, water projects, etc. – but will concentrate on the involvement of the Right of Way Industry in the Private Sector. You will also learn about the processes in which projects come about and the procedures Right of Way companies follow to win that project work. And, finally we’ll take a look at the United States’ energy consumption needs for the future and the infrastructure that will need to be built to accommodate those needs.
STEPS AND STAGES OF PROJECTS
This session will follow a project through the steps typically needed to successfully complete the client’s objectives and ensure timely, cost effective delivery of Right of Way services. Instruction will include the commercial drivers for projects, client expectations and the role of Right of Way in this process. A detailed discussion of the phases of projects, from feasibility to operations, will be presented with an explanation of some differences between types of projects. Also, examples of project progression will be presented and discussed.
MODULE TWO
ELECTRIC PROJECTS: TRANSMISSION & DISTRIBUTION
The Electric Industry is constantly evolving and currently experiencing levels of expansion and updating that is unprecedented in its 100 year history. This course will teach students what makes up an electric project, walk through project phases from development to acquisition, and provide insight as to how transmission and distribution projects differ from other linear projects. Additionally, the course seeks to provide students with a basic understanding of the industry through topics covering a history of the industry, influences to electric projects, regulation and emerging technology. The International Right of Way Association (IRWA) recently published an article regarding the Electric Transmission and distribution which can be accessed Here.
PIPELINE PROJECTS: OIL AND GAS PRODUCTS
This session will provide the attendees with detailed information specific to pipeline projects. It will include a description of the types of pipeline projects and the inherent issues for projects which do and do not have eminent domain rights. It will address the regulatory agencies overseeing projects and the associated implications. It will introduce participants to a variety of documents utilized in the overall Right of Way execution of pipeline projects. The attendees will be introduced to a variety of approaches and techniques involved in landowner / stakeholder relationships and negotiations. The construction stages and impacts will also be addressed.
MODULE THREE
SHALE PROJECTS: GOLD RUSH FEVER IN RIGHT OF WAY TODAY
This introduction to the Shale Plays takes a look at the ins and outs of the Shale Plays as it pertains to Right of Way. Topics will include current Shale Plays in the United States, the different types of drilling and the issues surrounding them, an in-depth look at building the infrastructure so that companies can get their product to market and working with landowners to accomplish this. An article published by the IRWA describing the growing right of way can be found Here
A CAREER IN RIGHT OF WAY
There are many different career paths in Right of Way. This is an introduction into the careers in the Right of Way Industry. Topics will include: who typically makes a good Right of Way Agent and the qualities needed, an in depth look at the typical jobs one may find and the work descriptions of each, a discussion of life on the road and tools to be successful.
GOOD FAITH NEGOTIATIONS & LANDOWNER RELATIONSHIPS
This class was developed based on the INGAA (Interstate Natural Gas Association of America) “Commitment to Landowners” -- http://www.ingaa.org/cms/6845.aspx -- and in response to the unprecedented level of energy infrastructure development that is occurring across the United States. This course is interactive and looks at all aspects of good-faith negotiations and landowner relationships within the Private Sector of Right of Way. Because of the increase in activity in the Energy Industry, it has become progressively more important for all professionals to be highly sensitive to landowners and any and all stakeholders. Whether there are legal, environmental, aesthetic, social, or cultural issues, the relationships we establish will set the tone of the project and can make the experience pleasant for the landowners, developers, engineers, and all other consultants. These common-sense approaches and processes are based on the psychology of healthy human relationships and will have major impact on the success of your projects.
MODULE FOUR
TITLE – PART I: UNDERSTANDING OWNERSHIP, RESEARCH PROCESS AND ASSEMBING TITLE FILES
The Title I segment of Title Research in the Right of Way Industry begins by describing the definition and function of title research. The course covers topics including property ownership, the research process, document interpretation, and preparation of title files. The training includes a “step by step” process for conducting field title research and the documentation of research results in accurate title reports. The material covered is presented in a lecture/discussion format with opportunity for questions and discussion of the topics covered.
TITLE – PART II: LEGAL DESCRIPTIONS, PLOTTING FIELD NOTES, DUE DILIGENCE
The Title II segment of Title Research in the Right of Way Industry is primarily focused on legal descriptions and deed plotting. Instruction will cover the different types of legal descriptions, reading and understanding legal descriptions from documents, writing legal descriptions for Limited Title Certificates and map-based exercises on locating properties from legal descriptions. This segment also offers instruction on how to manually plot tracts from field notes description examples. A section is also included in this segment to discuss Due Diligence research and reporting. The material in this section is presented in a lecture/discussion/exercise format that features a number of hands-on exercises involving legal descriptions and deed plotting.
MODULE FIVE
DOCUMENTS-DOCUMENTS-DOCUMENTS: THE VARIETY AND NECESSITY IN RIGHT OF WAY
Creating and maintaining accurate documentation is critical in the Right of Way Industry. The first portion of this course, documentation, delves into generation, maintenance, and updating of phase specific documentation. Attendees will be briefed on regulatory agencies and the impact they impose upon documentation. It also spotlights common condemnation processes, reporting, and the responsibility that accompanies storing Personally Identifiable Information (PII). The second portion of this course, due diligence, offers a close examination of the document review process. This interactive portion includes a due diligence glossary, as well as a hands on document review. (Laptop with wireless Internet capability required)
TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS: DATA MANAGEMENT, GIS & THE CLOUD
This course examines the use of technology and data management for the Right of Way Industry. Students will learn basic concepts of data management. We will explore what data is critical and relevant every day needs of a Right of Way organization. We will also look at technologies that have been successfully used for Right of Way data needs ranging from the Cloud to GIS. Students will gain an understanding of how technology and data management are applied to real world situations. (Laptop with wireless Internet capability and MS Excel required – free 60 day trial available at: http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/try )
MODULE SIX
REAL ESTATE LAW AND RIGHT OF WAY
Right of Way Agents research title, evaluate property value, negotiate terms, and work with attorneys to develop lease instruments, easement documents, and deeds to acquire real property interests and personal property interests that their clients need for production, pipelines, and surface sites. There are legal ramifications to each process that may deny the benefit you thought you were acquiring if the action is not done appropriately, or that might create difficulties in undervaluing or overvaluing the interest sought to be acquired, or even obtaining timely access to the property that might delay production or construction if not precisely worked. This class will focus on critical thinking and issue identification of such matters, and the team work necessary with the client, title agents, and outside counsel for successful acquisition of interests and settlement of damages.
APPRAISALS AND RIGHT OF WAY
This introductory class to Right of Way appraisal will provide a basic understanding of the appraisal process. The material will cover common appraisal terminology, valuation principles, the appraisal process, application of the approaches to value, Right of Way appraisal terminology, and methodology used in Right of Way valuation. Specific topics will include defining the larger parcel, the legal framework for Right of Way valuation, “Before and After Analysis”, and the role of the appraiser.
FAQ
Do you offer online professional Right of Way classes? I don't live in Houston and would prefer online classes if possible.
Not at this time, but you will be able to register and pay for online classes in the near future.
Is this certificate program approved by IRWA?
Each class can receive Recertification Credits from IRWA.
Is it necessary to take the Intro class first? Or can it be taken at the end to complete the 6 courses?
You do not have to complete the six modules in order. If you pass the module exam you move forward to the next class. There are six modules to complete the certificate program. We do recommend, if your schedule allows, to start with Module 1, which clearly shows the relationship of the Right of Way Industry to the larger Energy Industry, a very important connection to make for professionals in the ROW arena.
Is it possible that some of the classes towards the Certificate will not be required due to my education and experience?
Unfortunately, we do not offer waivers to classes based upon education or experience. To obtain the certificate, a person must successfully complete all six modules; no exceptions.
Do you recommend this program to new entrants to the industry? What opportunities are available for people with little or no experience who obtain the ROW certification?
The program is designed to equip people for several types of jobs that might be available in the ROW Industry, including: Right of Way acquisition agents, title agents and administrative land specialists.
Will I be eligible for any type of financial aids or grants?
NO. This course is a part of continuing education program and the aids and grants are offered for academic course.
How do I obtain a receipt to submit to my employer for reimbursement?
For any type of payment/receipt questions can be directed to ABTC, Johnny Nguyen, 713-221-8032.
Bios
Dr. Mazie Leftwich, Sr. VP of Contract Land Staff, LLC (CLS), a nationwide Land Management and Right of Way consulting company, is a nationally recognized Speaker and Workshop Leader. Dr. Leftwich is the Officer in Charge of the CLS-Professional Development Institute and has been the catalyst behind CLS's extensive employee training, project kick-off and team-excellence programs.
Dr. Leftwich is an IRWA Certified Communication Instructor and has been an Instructor on the University and Community College level as well, including the University of Houston’s Leadership Certificate Program. She has a Doctorate in Applied Psychology and has been active in the Right of Way Industry for 23 years. In addition to her work at CLS, Dr. Leftwich maintained a private clinical practice for 30 years, specializing in organizational and personal relationships and executive coaching.
A Gulf Coast Chapter 8 – Region 2 IRWA member, she has provided training for numerous national and international energy companies, as well as non-profit organizations, various IRWA Chapters, and has often been a presenter at a number of Energy Industry Conferences throughout the United States. Dr. Leftwich combines her communication skills, her business acumen, 30 years of clinical expertise, her knowledge of relationship and organizational dynamics, a sense of humor and a joy for presenting informative, fun-filled workshops and classes.
Kerry Malone, Sr. VP of Projects & Operations has been with Contract Land Staff, LLC (CLS) since 1999 and has over 34 years of experience in the pipeline and electric transmission Right of Way Industry. His responsibilities include project management and quality control for major pipeline and electric transmission acquisition projects. He has extensive experience in management of FERC regulated pipeline projects including the 1,600+ mile Rockies Express Pipeline. Kerry oversees development of policies and procedures for management of projects for CLS. He also works with clients to plan projects, prepare feasibility studies and ensure their employment needs are being met. Kerry is an instructor in the CLS-Professional Development Institute and is a Founding Board Member of the Right of Way Consultant's Council where he currently serves as Vice Chair.
Kerry holds BS and MEd degrees with additional post-graduate study in business and real estate law. He is a member of Chapter 8 Gulf Coast Chapter of IRWA.
John Nicholson, Sr. VP of Special Projects joined Contract Land Staff, LLC (CLS) in 2006 bringing over 33 years of management experience in the pipeline Right of Way and Real Estate Consulting Industries. During his long and varied career John has held numerous executive level positions, including serving as president and CEO of his own land and Right of Way consulting firm.
John holds a MBA from Sam Houston State University, and a BBA – Marketing from Texas A&M University. He is a member of the American Association of Professional Landmen, and is a past president of Gulf State Chapter 8 of the International Right of Way Association. John was named “Right of Way Professional of the Year” in 1984 by the IRWA Gulf State Chapter. He is also a Texas Licensed Real Estate Broker. Additionally, John serves as an Instructor for CLS-Professional Development Institute and acts as an excellent mentor and guide to those entering the ROW Industry.
Julie Rasmussen, Sr. VP of Projects & Operations has 18 years of experience in Right of Way project management and oversight. She has expertise in FERC and other regulatory agency requirements, project execution plans, strategic planning, route selection, acquisition, scheduling, damage settlements, monitoring construction activities, title and abstract work, permitting, feasibility studies, and budgeting.
Over the years, Julie has successfully managed some of Contract Land Staff, LLC (CLS) largest multi-state projects and has overseen the management of multiple field offices with large numbers of ROW agents and administrative personnel under her supervision. Prior to joining CLS, Julie managed multiple fiber optic projects for AT&T and highway projects for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.
Julie is an instructor for the CLS-Professional Development Institute where she provides training and direction for projects and clients regarding the written development of standards for execution of projects. She designs, implements and presents training materials, develops usable and consistent standards in conjunction with creating course outlines combined with detailed curriculum course studies that attendees benefit from using basic concepts and learn technical expertise.
Julie holds a degree in Marketing from Hawkeye Community College, and is a licensed North Carolina Real Estate Broker. Additionally, Julie is a member of the Chapter 8 International Right of Way Association (IRWA).
Rosie Dawson has been with Contract Land Staff, LLC (CLS) since 1996 and brings over 25 years of Right of Way Industry experience, which includes electric transmission and distribution, pipeline, DOT, oil, gas and mineral title research.
As Vice President of Title Services, Rosie’s responsibilities include project title management and quality control through pre-project training of title procedures as well as teaching CLS-Professional Development Institute (PDI) classes for CLS. She is currently overseeing projects in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Michigan. Rosie also works with clients conducting the title research for smaller projects. Prior to joining CLS, Rosie had her own consulting business for 8 years and five-year tenure with the Harris County (Houston) Attorney's Office.
Rosie has also instructed classes and webinars on An Overview of Title Research; the title portion of Everything You Want to Know about Right of Way and Plotting Legal Descriptions the Old Fashioned Way. She has been a co-instructor for the IRWA Titles 801 class for several years and is a member of Chapter 8 Gulf Coast Chapter of IRWA. Rosie attended the Dickinson State Teachers College in Dickinson, North Dakota.
Leon Law, VP of Client Services Technology Solutions joined Contract Land Staff, LLC (CLS) in 1999 and has been responsible for guiding the company’s technology direction and strategy for over 10 years.
He has been involved in the architecture, design and implementation of CLS’s web application, CLSLiNK®, a robust solution for land data management and CLSLiNK® GIS Viewer, an interactive web based map viewer. Leon also participated in the creation of the VROW® Department (Virtual Right of Way®) which is responsible for data entry and land records management services. He was also heavily involved in the formation of the GIS Services department which now offers digitization, analysis and cartography services.
With this deep understanding of the company’s solution portfolio Leon is adept at positioning solutions to best address client’s needs. Leon has participated and led multiple software and due diligence project implementations during his tenure with CLS. Leon’s primary focus now is business development, account management and training for all of CLS’s technology solutions offerings and services.
Leon holds a BA in Business from California State University - Fullerton and is a regular instructor for the CLS-Professional Development Institute.
Teri Cameron Rowley is Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM) and has over 20 years of experience in marketing professional services. As the Vice President of Business Development for Contract Land Staff, LLC she leads the firm’s marketing and business development efforts, balancing the service strategy and executing the marketing plan to achieve desired results. She works in close association with chief officers, personnel and suppliers, builds relations with clients as well as oversight of all marketing aspects to achieve increase in sales and improve the brand image of the company. Teri also oversees all communication and PR practices, nationwide.
Teri is a member of the International Right of Way Association and currently oversees the Chapter 8 website. She has been an active member of the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) Houston Chapter since 1997, holding many board positions including President in 2002 / 2003. She served on the Houston SMPS Mentoring Committee for two years and also received Rock of the Chapter in 1999/2000.
Nick Anitsakis has been with Contract Land Staff, LLC (CLS) since 2007 and brings ten years of Right of Way Industry experience that includes electric transmission, pipeline, DOT, and real estate appraisal. As Director of Electric Transmission Projects, Nick provides oversight to projects, primarily in Electric Transmission. In this capacity, Nick has managed three 345 kV projects in Texas and a 345 kV transmission line in Oklahoma. Additionally, he has provided consulting and regulatory support for a multitude of projects from Texas to the Midwest. Prior to joining CLS, Nick was a commercial real estate appraiser, dealing extensively with eminent domain, encroachments and Right of Way easements.
Nick is also an instructor in the CLS-Professional Development Institute. Nick holds a B.B.A in Finance with a concentration in Real Estate, is a member of the International Right of Way Association (IRWA), Chapter 8, serves as the IRWA Region 2 Representative for the Utilities Committee, and is an Associate Member of the Appraisal Institute.
Ed Trapp has been with Contract Land Staff, LLC (CLS) since 2009 and brings over 30 years of Right of Way Industry experience, which includes electric transmission and distribution, pipeline, DOT, oil, gas and mineral, solution uranium mining and renewable energy.As Director of Electric Transmission Projects, Ed’s responsibilities include project management and quality control over electric transmission projects. He is currently overseeing three electric transmission projects in three states, Oklahoma, Kansas and Michigan. He also works with clients to plan projects, assists in preparing project estimates and ensures employment needs are met. Prior to joining CLS, Ed spent 16 years with Xcel Energy in the Midwest. Ed has also instructed classes and webinars on Electric Transmission Overview, Electric Transmission Infrastructure, and Anatomy of an Electric Transmission Project. Ed holds a BS degree with considerable post-graduate study in real estate law. He is a member of Chapter 8 Gulf Coast Chapter of IRWA and past President of Chapter 17A, Badger Chapter of Wisconsin.
Bruce Trepl has been with Contract Land Staff, LLC (CLS) since 2009 and brings over 10 years of Right of Way Industry experience, which includes pipeline, O&G, water lines and due diligence.
As Director of Pipeline Projects, Bruce's responsibilities include project management and quality control over assigned projects. He is currently overseeing two pipeline projects in three states, Oklahoma, Kansas and Colorado. He works with clients to plan their projects, which includes estimating, resource allocation, budgeting, expectations and reporting to ensure that their needs are met.
Bruce holds a BA in Mass Communications from West Texas A&M University and is a regular instructor for the CLS-Professional Development Institute instructing classes and webinars on Shale plays and other topics.
Frank Baumgartner is Product Manager of Technology Solutions at Contract Land Staff LLC (CLS). He is responsible for driving the growth of our data and project management software, reporting solutions, data integration services, and ESRI GIS technologies in support of our clients’ Right of Way acquisition projects. His focus is on steering the strategic direction of CLSLiNK®, the CLSLiNK® GIS Viewer, and technology services. He also engages with business development in support of developing new technology opportunities.
Frank holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin with a focus on image processing and machine vision. His technology experience comes from 7 years of developing and integrating machine vision software and hardware solutions to improve factory automation process efficiency. He joined CLS as a business analyst in 2009 and managed several CLSLiNK® and CLSLiNK® GIS Viewer software implementations before moving into his current role.
Bow Brannon is the Manager of Title Services at Contract Land Staff, LLC (CLS), a position he has held since May, 2010, providing oversight on all CLS title work. Bow has over twenty years in the Title Industry including the ownership and operation of an independent title business providing title research for lenders, Right of Way service providers and others. He has over five years exclusively in the Right of Way Industry as Senior Title Agent, Title Supervisor and most recently as Title Manager for 8 pipelines covering 1,820 tracts in 13 counties, with a staff including 40 agents and 3 supervisors.
Bow has been instructor for title training sessions structured for new agents and project kickoff training for many projects. He has also acted as facilitator for seminars featuring title training for other industry professionals.
Stephen McVeigh (Skip) has been with Contract Land Staff, LLC (CLS) since 2010 and has over eight years experience working in the Houston Oil and Gas Industry. He is currently the manager of the Virtual Right of Way® department (VROW®) and oversees data management and project processes for all CLS’s Right of Way and Due Diligence projects. Skip started with CLS in the Technology Solutions department as a business analyst. While working the Technology Solutions department, he helped standardize data processes and metrics between projects which greatly improved project reporting. Skip also played a large role in creating the SSRS reporting suite which is now used on all CLS project. Prior to working with CLS, Skip worked for Accenture for six and a half years. During his time with Accenture, he consulted in many areas in the Oil and Gas Industry for clients such as ExxonMobil, Shell, Chevron, Hess, Anadarko and Weatherford.
Skip is a graduate of Baylor University with a degree in Management Information Systems. He is a born and raised Houstonian with family ties in and around the Oil and Gas Industry.
BIOS – Guest Faculty
Connie W. Williford graduated from Texas A&M University with a B.S. in Agricultural Economics with special emphasis in Real Estate. He has lectured extensively throughout the country on appraisal issues such as the valuation of contaminated properties, easement valuation, eminent domain appraisal and litigation and appraisal principles.
Connie holds the MAI designation from the Appraisal Institute and is a State Certified General Real Estate Appraiser in several states. He has performed appraisals and appraisal reviews on virtually all types of real estate and has been qualified as an expert witness in various courts of law. As an active member in the International Right of Way Association, Connie currently serves on the International Pipeline Committee. He is a past Chair of Region 2 and is a past president of Gulf States Chapter 8 in Houston. Connie was chosen as the Professional of the Year by both Region 2 and Chapter 8, and was a recipient of the Louise L. and Y.T. Lum Award presented by the Right of Way International Education Foundation.
Connie has served as an instructor for both the IRWA and the National Highway Institute. He has developed a number of courses for the NHI to include “Appraisal and Appraisal Review for Federal-Aid Highway Programs” and “Eminent Domain Training for Attorneys and Appraisers”.
Connie is a partner in the firm of Allen, Williford & Seale. AWS specializes in Right of Way appraisal and has been and involved in appraisal projects throughout the United States. AWS has an experienced staff and is typically involved in numerous projects at any given time which allows the personnel to stay abreast of the ever changing issues facing the appraisal community.
Albert N. Allen is a principal in Allen, Williford & Seale a real estate appraisal firm with a national Right of Way valuation and litigation support practice. AWS has corporate offices in Houston, Texas and maintains project offices throughout the country. Albert frequently testifies as an expert witness regarding real property value in local, state and federal courts of law. He lectures on appraisal, Right of Way and eminent domain litigation at seminars and courses throughout the United States and Canada. Mr. Allen has been engaged in appraisal since 1972. Mr. Allen graduated from Texas A & M University in 1969. Mr. Allen served as an officer in the United States Army Corps of Engineers from 1969 to 1972. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree - Texas A & M University, Post Graduate Work at Texas A & M and University of Houston as well as Continuing Education Credits through Courses, Seminars and Lectures.
He is affiliated with The Counselors of Real Estate (CRE), Appraisal Institute (MAI, SRA), International Right of Way Association (SR/WA), Arizona Certified General Real Estate Appraiser No. 30968, Texas Certified General Real Estate Appraiser No. TX-1320152-G and is also certified in various other states.
David Martin, Esquire, has been with Enbridge Energy Partners L.P. in Houston, Texas, since 2001, and has been the Manager of the Land and Right of Way Department since 2006. Prior to that Mr. Martin handled acquisitions and divestituresfor Enbridge, and previous to that was a Senior Attorney for Koch Industries, Inc., the General Counsel for Mid Louisiana Gas Company, and in private practice in Wichita, Kansas. Mr. Martin graduated magna cum laude from Washburn University with his juris doctorate law degree in 1984. Enbridge owns and operates approximately 8,000 miles of crude oil and natural gas pipeline holdings principally in Texas, Oklahoma, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Illinois, with additional interests in other states. Besides his extensive background in Right of Way and his legal training and expertise, Mr. Martin is also known for his keen sense of humor which we are sure our Certificate participants will enjoy.
Technical Support
Helpful Phone Numbers
Online Course Registration:
Phone:
713-221-8032
Hours:
Mon. – Fri. ~ 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. CDT
UHD ROW Administrative Office:
Phone:
713-221-5015
Hours:
Mon. – Fri. ~ 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. CDT
UHD IT Support: (Identify you are a continuing education student.)
Phone:
713-221-8031
Hours:
Mon. – Fri. ~ 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Sat. ~ 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Sun. ~ 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m
All hours are in Central Time zone.
Page maintained by College of Business Web Specialist
Last updated or reviewed on 6/14/13
