RSG is growing! We searched high and low to find talented and innovative individuals who are as passionate about the work we do as we are and we struck gold! Having been successful in our efforts, we would like to introduce you to the newest members of our team.


Jordan Perez joined RSG in 2019 as a Research Assistant. Jordan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Economics from California State University, Fullerton. He acquired a strong analytical skill set through coursework in economic research methods and cost benefit analysis. Jordan has worked in both the public and private sectors at the Embassy of Canada, the County of Orange, and a tech startup.


Wesley Smith is the newest member of the RSG team. Wesley earned his B.A. in Political Science from the University of Hawaii, as well as a Master of Public Policy degree from USC. He’s gained significant experience via internships at the Hawaii State Senate, San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments, and the Orange County Transportation Authority. As our newest Research Assistant, Wes is ready to help RSG continue building better communities and bolder futures.


Kyle Westra joined RSG in 2019 as a Research Assistant. Kyle brings with him a background in housing and economic development research and planning experience. He has performed country wide land-use regulation and home value research as well as local municipal code analysis and research. He embraces a constant search for knowledge and best practices to apply to his projects.


Katie Blaus joined RSG in late 2018 as the Business and Office Manager. With a B.A in Communications, Katie’s professional experience spans over 15 years. Before joining RSG, Katie worked as an Office Manager, Executive Assistant and HR Generalist for a major mortgage firm. During her time in these roles, Katie provided assistance to the CEO and Executives with the management of their practices in a number of areas including employee relations, administrative oversight, licensing, benefits, training and creating policies and procedures. Katie’s professional and academic experience has provided her a strong set of skills that allows her to effectively perform her role at RSG.


Matthew Pelletier joined RSG in 2019 as a Research Assistant. Matthews holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from the University of California, Riverside. He has acquired a strong analytical skill set through coursework in corporate finance and security analysis.


Alan Alé joined RSG in 2019 as a Research Assistant. Alan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the University of California, Davis. His educational background combined with his significant experience in research analysis has provided him with an extensive set of analytical skills that he is able to impart upon each job he assists with.


Brandon Fender initially joined RSG in 2009 while attending the University of California, Irvine where he earned a BA in Social Ecology. As a member of numerous project teams, Mr. Fender gained experience in housing administration, economic and market analyses, housing construction and development, municipal finance, and development feasibility. In 2014, Brandon and his wife opened a small independent craft brewery in Santa Ana. Having spent some time in beer production, retail operations and wholesaling, Brandon returned to RSG in 2019 as an Associate.