Women’s History Month: Spotlighting MBA Chair Christine Chandler

March is women’s history month and MBA NewsLink is hosting a series of interviews with women in the industry to learn about their experiences, challenges and get their advice.

First up is Mortgage Bankers Association 2026 Chair Christine Chandler, also M&T Realty Capital Corp. chief operating officer.

MBA NewsLink: What has been your proudest moment in your career so far? 

Chandler: Being recognized by the industry to serve as MBA Chair–it is a true honor to be able to represent the industry that has taught me and provided me so much! And being introduced by colleague Joanie Wilson and industry peer Jeff Majewski (CBRE) and hearing them share about the impact I have made…with my family in the audience to hear. 

MBA NewsLink: What challenges have you faced as a woman in your field?

Chandler: As a woman in a heavily male-dominated industry (commercial real estate), the opportunities have not always been equal, but with dedication, commitment and women paving the way ahead of me it has opened more doors.

MBA NewsLink: What steps can the industry take to best support its female members?

Chandler: Keep opening doors and making room at the table for young women entering the industry. We need to work together to ensure that the opportunities do no fade away–but continue to get stronger. 

MBA NewsLink: How do you build credibility and influence in traditionally male-dominated spaces?

Chandler: Have confidence and trust your gut–too often women second-guess their instincts (men tend to go for it) and we build inner conflict. We need to understand that each day we take a risk and sometimes it may not work out 100% the way we want it to…but the more we stand with firmness, it gets easier and trust is built. 

MBA NewsLink: How have you seen opportunities for women in mortgage banking change over the course of your career?

Chandler: In the late 90s I witnessed a steady increase in opportunities for women–and saw more in the audience and on the stage at conferences. I must say, though, that post-COVID there seems to be a negative trend and we need to work together to get those numbers increasing. 

MBA NewsLink: Where do you think the industry still has work to do in advancing women into leadership roles?

Chandler: Recently, we have seen a shift and that confirms there is still work to be done! Women need to raise their hands and women in advanced roles need to pull them up. Remember–you don’t get if you don’t ask…if you see a role that you want, be curious and ask a leader how they got there and what action steps they can recommend for you. While it is important to for the industry to create space, it is equally important for women to advocate for themselves. 

MBA NewsLink: What unique strengths do women leaders bring to the mortgage and housing finance sector?

Chandler: Most of the women that I know in leadership positions are doers…we are not afraid to push up our sleeves and do the work. However, that sometimes works against us…we need to get better at delegating and not just to women–we need to delegate across the workforce–that is how we will make equality based on merit stick.

MBA NewsLink: How can companies better support retention and advancement of women professionals?

Chandler: Giving women a seat at the table and not just bringing things to the table! Women earlier in their careers need to see women they can relate to and respect in positions of leadership so they feel like they can aspire to grow within the organization. If they only see a c-suite of men, they will look for a company that is inclusive and promotes talent, regardless of the gender. 

MBA NewsLink: What’s one intentional thing you do to lift up other women in the industry, especially when they’re not in the room?

Chandler: When the voices are all speaking about the achievements of male colleagues, I will find a way to weave something that a woman did to contribute toward a project or outcome.

MBA NewsLink: What advice would you give to young women looking to have a career in the mortgage banking industry?

Chandler: When you wake up each morning, ask yourself, what will you challenge yourself with today! If we stop growing and challenging ourselves, we get stale and that is when we start to set into ways that stunt growth. If you don’t know how to do something, ask someone to explain it to you–even if it is not “your job.” Find ways to make yourself known and respected. There is so much the industry has to offer, we just need to look for ways to maximize our abilities and shine!

MBA NewsLink: What has been your experience with the mPower network and what advice would you give to those looking to get involved?

Chandler: mPower is not just for women, it is a strong network of advocates for women! Women helping women, men interested in how they can help women, women looking to enhance their own skills, and a tribe of women who can be there to support and lift us up when we need encouragement or celebration!