C
al Masterson, Director of Originations at NewPoint Real Estate Capital, has been selected as a 2025 Future Leader by Senior Housing News. Future Leaders are chosen by peers and must be high‑performing, 40 or younger, passionate about turning vision into action, and advocates for older adults and the professionals who care for them.
Masterson discussed his journey, leadership insights, and the future of senior housing in an interview with Senior Housing News.
**Why senior housing?**
Masterson’s interest in mental and physical wellness, especially the concept of health span—living well, not just long—originated in pre‑med studies and was reinforced during his ER work. He sees senior living as a platform to apply holistic care on a larger scale, especially through strategic capital investment and operations that create lasting impact.
**Key leadership lesson**
Resourcefulness tops his list. In an industry without a clear playbook, challenges like staffing shortages, regulatory shifts, and economic pressure demand calm, strategic thinking and creative problem‑solving. Turning constraints into innovation strengthens transactions and industry relationships.
**One change for the future**
He wants faster integration of technology with value‑based care, not merely for efficiency but to connect and personalize services. Data, AI, and smart systems should proactively support residents’ independence, well‑being, and social engagement while easing caregiver burden, redefining aging as dignified and empowering.
**Future in one word**
“Integrated.” Masterson envisions environments that blend healthcare, lifestyle, technology, and community into a seamless ecosystem, allowing residents to age in place with all needs met holistically.
**What will shape 2026?**
The influx of institutional and private equity capital will accelerate consolidation, favor operators with strong brands and proven outcomes, and push adoption of tech‑enabled management. These investors bring expectations for operational efficiency, scalability, data transparency, and ROI.
**Qualities of Future Leaders**
Intellectual curiosity is paramount. Rapid changes in healthcare tech and economics require leaders who challenge assumptions and explore new possibilities. Empathy, adaptability, collaboration, and a growth mindset are also essential, as is a genuine commitment to understanding the purpose behind their work.
**Advice to his past self**
Masterson would tell his early‑career self to “be a sponge.” Absorb everything, ask questions, and seek conversations—whether with owner‑operators or mentors. Curiosity and continuous learning accelerate growth and prepare leaders for the evolving industry.
For more on the Future Leaders Awards, visit https://futureleaders.wtwhmedia.com/.
