Since the company’s founding, Fred has cultivated Childress Klein into one of Charlotte’s largest and most respected private real estate firms. The firm is renowned for its development, ownership, and management of some of Charlotte’s most distinguished landmarks.

Today, Childress Klein boasts a formidable team of over 115 dedicated professionals and continues to develop, manage, and oversee a portfolio of more than 450 properties, amassing over 51 million square feet of developments. This portfolio features projects such as The Duke Energy Center, One Wells Fargo Center, the Charlotte Plaza building, and LakePointe Office Park, alongside vast expanses of warehouse and industrial space. Fred’s entrepreneurial spirit, robust work ethic, and commitment to the community continue to set the foundation for Childress Klein’s future leadership and sustained growth.

As a Founding Partner, Fred has played a pivotal role in driving new business activities and fostering investor relationships. He has adeptly leveraged his extensive 45+ years of experience in commercial real estate development across the southeast region to help the company attain its long-term strategic objectives. Prior to co-founding Childress Klein with Don Childress in 1988, Fred held the positions of partner and regional partner with the Trammell Crow Company, considered the largest commercial real estate firm in the United States at that time.

Before embarking on his real estate career, Fred served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy. He earned an MBA with distinction from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and graduated summa cum laude in engineering from Lehigh University. Beyond his professional pursuits, Fred is a dynamic member of the Charlotte community, holding several leadership positions, including a current Trustee at UNC Charlotte, and a Board Member of the North Carolina Railroad. His multifaceted leadership and community involvement further solidify his impactful role in shaping the commercial real estate landscape.