Dallas-Fort Worth's growth over the last 15 years has turned it into one of the most important commercial real estate markets in the country, and industry professionals have had to adapt to keep up. More women are leading companies, making investment decisions and developing projects in DFW than they were 15 years ago, Rafaty said. DFW's shifting market has caused the metro’s leading women to adapt their management styles. While women don’t always get the recognition they deserve in commercial real estate, Loudis said being part of the decision-making process is effecting change in the industry. Commercial real estate is all about relationships, and Wernick said those are much more important than billable hours or technical proficiency.