About Us

A third generation builder, Dave Fort began his work career in 1965 after graduating from the University of Florida. Over the course of forty-three years, from Project Manager to General Contractor and then Developer, Dave Fort has steadily participated in the Multifamily Industry.

He and his wife Claudia began their journey into Student Housing in the late 80’s. This product, and now a conventional product geared toward young adults, are the focus of FortGroup’s future work.

As co-founder, Claudia offers a unique understanding of the young adult and student markets following a long career as a high school educator. Claudia has served in every capacity of the development company and today oversees with Dave all aspects of FortGroup. Together, Claudia and Dave have seven children and seven grandchildren.

As President of FortGroup, Mike is responsible for the company’s development activities. He has served with FortGroup since 1999 and has progressively contributed to the growth of the company, serving in various capacities. He has over 25 years of experience in real estate development, analysis, valuation, consulting, and site planning/land design.

Prior to joining FortGroup, Mike was employed with Integra Realty Resources, where he specialized in providing valuation, feasibility and market analysis services for institutional grade multifamily properties. He started his real estate career with KPMG Consulting, where he was a part of the Real Estate, Sports and Hospitality Consulting group. He has an undergraduate degree from West Virginia University and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Tampa.

Amy moved to Jacksonville Beach, Florida in 1987 and began working as manager of operations for a local retail company. In 1996, Amy applied her Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of North Florida and her managerial talent to the banking industry, spending four years as a Commercial Real Estate Relationship Manager/Vice President of a large regional bank. Amy’s responsibilities with the FortGroup include securing construction and permanent financing for current and future project, building and securing equity partnerships and identifying land for future development opportunities.

As Vice President of Technology and Administrative Service, Rod Wiggins possesses over 22 years of experience in the field of Information Technology. Before joining FortGroup, Rod was the CEO of an IT business that installed and supported over 200 computer networks. His expertise includes computer system administration, project/personnel management, CAT5 certification and fiber certification. He contributes this experience, as well as the discipline gained training in the martial arts, as a member of FortGroup.

Mariah Fort-Mouro holds the broker’s license for FortGroup Development Acquisition, Inc. as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. A seasoned veteran, her 9+ years with the company has given her much knowledge into the marketplaces and design of our projects. Mariah is involved in the conceptual phases of each new brand, serving as a liaison between development and management to achieve a solid product that works for both sides. Her duties also include advertising and marketing efforts for portfolio properties, a role which includes tracking traffic data and marketing budgets along with the development of strategies for future marketplaces. Prior to joining FortGroup, Mariah was co-owner of a landscape business, was a fully certified Montessori teacher and as such was co-founder of a Montessori school in Jacksonville Beach, FL.

Kelly joined FortGroup as Director of Acquisitions in 2007 to identify new development opportunities throughout various U.S. markets. Prior to joining FortGroup, Kelly worked as Vice President of Acquisitions for a large Southeastern developer, owner and operator of multifamily properties where she helped to acquire and finance over $150 million of multifamily product. Kelly received her BS in Finance from Auburn University and MBA specializing in Real Estate from Georgia State University.

As Creative Director of FortGroup, Louie is involved in marketing strategies, conceptual creative development, art direction and graphic design in print, web, and multi-media presentations. Louie’s background includes 15 years in print and broadcast design and more than six years as a business owner. Louie has been recognized on the local and regional level for excellence in graphic design with 12 gold and 11 silver Addys, including Best of Show Award, and has been honored with the highest regional award, a Charlie, for his work with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

As a VISTA volunteer in the 1970’s Cathi was involved in health and housing issues for low-income residents in Massachusetts, and later served as a community nurse and administrator in the St. Augustine area. A former coordinator of the Lifelong Learning Program of the St. Johns County Council on Aging, she brings her knowledge of people and her enthusiasm for team building to our corporate community. Cathi joined FortGroup in 2007.

Barbara joined FortGroup in 2006. She has an undergraduate degree in Economics with a minor in Business Management. She has worked in the financial services industry for over fifteen years—including retail banking, mortgage lending, and investment services. She is Claudia and Dave’s administrative assistant.