(Russell Huntamer ~ 2016 Award Winner)
What advice would you give to your former self at the time you were featured as an Accomplished Under 40 Award recipient?
Stay the course — and be even more focused, determined and committed. In my younger years, I occasionally considered changing careers. But sticking with Compass has paid off in more ways than I could have imagined. The strength of my network, client base and book of business continues to open doors daily. And just as important, the people I work with have become like family.
What has changed the most in Central Oregon since then?
I received the award in late 2016, and the changes in Central Oregon since then have been nothing short of transformative. Both Bend and Redmond have seen substantial population growth — with Bend surpassing the 100,000-resident milestone — alongside major infrastructure improvements and a wave of economic development.
We’ve witnessed the rise of vibrant mixed-use communities like The Hixon, Jackstraw and The Grove in Northwest Crossing, as well as larger multi-zone master-planned developments such as Petrosa, Easton and Caraway. Downtown cores continue to revitalize, while new trends like food cart lots and chef-driven restaurants have elevated the region’s culinary scene.
Apartment construction has surged, and the real estate landscape has evolved across the board — from industrial and multifamily to commercial — each sector adapting to new market realities. The shift toward remote work and tech-driven business models has reshaped how people live, work and invest here. And despite ongoing challenges like rising construction costs and housing shortages, Central Oregon continues to grow, innovate and thrive.
How has your career and community involvement changed since you were selected?
I became a partner the same year I received the award and have since taken on increasing leadership responsibilities — first as principal broker, and now as president of Compass Commercial. Alongside career growth, our company has significantly deepened its community involvement. We sponsor and support a wide array of local nonprofits and charitable initiatives. Each year, we host a client appreciation event that doubles as a fundraiser. Currently, we’re supporting The Giving Plate, Warrior Impact and Heart of Corps. Other organizations we’ve contributed or continue to contribute to through sponsorships or volunteer hours include Adult & Teen Challenge, Bethlehem Inn, Bend International School, Deschutes Children’s Foundation, Friends of the Children, Healing Reins, Healthy Beginnings, the Humane Society of Central Oregon, Shepherd’s House and KIDS Center.
What did it mean to you to receive the award?
At first, I didn’t fully realize how much it meant. But looking back, it was incredibly meaningful. The award served as a powerful reminder that hard work, perseverance and a deep commitment to your craft, clients, co-workers and community don’t go unnoticed. At the time, it gave me a boost of confidence during a pivotal point in my career. It validated that the path I was on — both personally and professionally — was making a difference. More than anything, it inspired me to keep pushing forward and to help lift others along the way.
What are some of your proudest accomplishments that make you who you are today?
Surviving adolescence, for starters. At 19, I took a bus to Mexico from Bend and spent three months touring the country, sleeping in hostels and hammocks — an experience that shaped my perspective on independence and adaptability. I’m a proud father to three happy, healthy young adult kids who still seem to like me. I’ve been with Compass for over 20 years and became a partner in 2016. One of my proudest career milestones was brokering the sale of the Albertsons shopping centers in Bend — a pivotal deal that helped define the trajectory of my career.
What advice would you give to this year’s — and future — recipients of Accomplished Under 40 Award?
Imagine your future as big and bold as you can and then go after it. Most if not all limitations are self-imposed. Don’t let fear and doubt keep you small. The person most likely to hold you back is you. So, believe in yourself, get out of your own way and get to work.
What question would you ask yourself for this interview?
Q: What keeps you grounded and motivated after all these years in business?
A: My family, clients who become friends, teammates who become like family. And the opportunity to help shape the community I love — one deal, one building and one relationship at a time. That sense of purpose is what keeps me showing up and giving my best.
Additional Comments
I’m grateful for the recognition then, and even more grateful for the growth and lessons since. Central Oregon is a special place — and as a Bend native, I’m proud to be part of its evolution.
