(Connect has handed out its third-annual Canadian Women in Real Estate Awards. This story profiles Melanie Ducholke, vice-president of finance and accounting at Northern Development & Investment Group in Edmonton.)

By Amy Wolff Sorter

Melanie Ducholke is the Vice President of Finance & Accounting at Northern Development & Investment Group, where she collaborates with financial institutions, governments, and private stakeholders to advance complex projects. During her more than two-decade career, Ducholke has overseen the growth of commercial real estate portfolios from $80 million to $1 billion globally, while managing capital responsibly and maximizing returns.

She is an active member of Edmonton CREW, where she has served as president, been on the board, and is a member of the Future Leaders Committee. Ducholke was appointed to the CREW Network National (Canada and the U.S.A.) finance committee and also served as a mentor in the leadership program.

She is also active with the Edmonton Real Estate Forum and was the first female to chair the event. She served as a moderator, panelist and speaker with the organization. Additionally, Ducholke has held leadership positions with NAIOP and is involved with the REET Institute, serving as a guest lecturer in the University of Alberta’s Real Estate Program. Other organizations in which she’s engaged include FEI Canada, ICD and ICSC.

These are just some of the reasons why Connect Canada CRE honoured Melanie Ducholke with a 2025 Canadian Women in Real Estate Award. The awards celebrate the achievements and inspirational stories of women who have reached respected leadership positions and taken on mentorship roles.