Technology and Shaping the Future of ASHI

Rhett Claypool was one of two deserving recipients of the ASHI 2024 President’s Staff Award. Established in 1989, the President’s Award is presented by the outgoing ASHI President in recognition of outstanding service to the association. 

Most recently, Claypool has kept busy at work by helping to launch new programs with help from a great team and vendors. “In the last several months, we’ve launched a new advanced website and Salesforce-based AMS called Nimble. These will transform how we work at ASHI and how our members interact with us,” he said. “It was several years in the making, and we are confident it will help shape the future of ASHI and its members.” 

He said the heavy focus on technology advancement at ASHI over the last year may have something to do with why he was given the latest Staff Award. “I wasn’t expecting it, but I am very humbled.” 

Based in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, Claypool celebrated three years at ASHI in April 2025. He started the role after looking for a new association to work for, and he counts himself lucky. He is currently ASHI’s director of information technology, and he works with the team on various projects—not all of them strictly IT-focused. 

“My job is more than just keeping the systems running daily and ensuring that all technology systems, from websites to databases to communication tools, run smoothly and securely. They lead strategic tech initiatives to improve member services, streamline operations, and support the organization’s mission. They also manage cybersecurity, data integrity, and vendor relationships to keep everything efficient, scalable, and protected,” he said.  

Besides the day-to-day work, he also attends most board meetings and has contributed to some committees. He looks forward to working with newest board president, Scott Johnson, having worked extensively with Mark Goodman, ASHI’s immediate past president. 

“ASHI has had to adapt to broad changes in the real estate industry, economic issues, industry, and societal upheaval,” Claypool said when asked about changes over the years. “We have adapted to these changes accordingly and with skill. We have become a leaner and more efficient association and are adept at leveraging our tools to continue progressing and moving our society forward.” 

Working with ASHI members has shown him just how passionate people all over the country are about their work, too. “They care deeply about the industry, and I’ve learned much from their experience and wisdom,” he said. 

He expects the industry will continue to adapt to changes in the world of real estate. “After all the NRA lawsuits and new regulations, there will be several changes in the whole process of buying and selling real estate. Home inspectors can’t rely on the agents any longer for recommendations. They must learn new ways to advertise their services and embrace new technology to network and grow their customer base.”

Claypool’s own field is evolving, too, he said. “Information technology is an in-demand field, but jobs are changing. Coding and computer science careers are drying up as AI takes prominence, while cybersecurity is growing as threats and hackers evolve new, nefarious techniques.”  

Claypool continues to learn and advance in his career as a technologist. Before ASHI he mainly worked for associations and hospitality IT, including the Texas Restaurant Association and Torchy’s Tacos in Austin, Texas. “Ultimately, I want to become a CIO (Chief Information Officer) and stay in the nonprofit world, as that is where my passions lie,” he said. 

When he’s not working, Claypool spends as much time as he can with his family and pets at the beach in Florida. “We like to explore new places and try new restaurants. I am passionate about quantum physics, intelligent design, consciousness research, and anything related to science,” he said. “I read a lot in my spare time.” 

As for ASHI, Claypool is excited for how new technologies will shape the future. “We are looking for new ways to grow our membership and offer innovative benefits to our members,” he said. “I am grateful for the incredible team I work with and our thoughtful and dynamic executive director, James Thomas, who continues to inspire me.” 

Rhett Claypool with daughters Anna and Palina and wife Viktoryia, plus Remy the dog and Margo the cat. Photos courtesy of Rhett Claypool