E. Thomas Collins, Jr., began his real estate career with the Department of Defense in the Springfield, MA. Over the next decade Mr Collins rose through the lending ranks within institutions such as Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, American Fletcher Mortgage Co. and Crocker Mortgage Company.

In 1980, Collins joined Lake Development Limited which took over development, management and construction responsibilities for the Britannica Centre (310 South Michigan), 318 South Michigan, 33 East Congress and the Civic Opera Building.

In 1985, he joined Hiffman Shaffer Associates, Inc. as Executive Vice President of Development, Chief Financial Officer and a Principal of the firm. His responsibilities included acquisition, financial analysis and financing for both new and existing HSA projects. During his tenure, Mr. Collins was responsible for financing 80 transactions totaling $800 million, development of 50 projects totaling over $450 million, and involved in the acquisition of thirty properties totaling $350 million. In 1993, Mr. Collins was named President and Chief Operating Officer of HSA, and in 1995 was named Vice-Chairman.

In 1999, he formed The Reliant Group, Ltd. with Richard Hulina, specializing in retail land assemblage and development. Several years later, they both founded Clark Street Development, LLC, a multifaceted real estate development company.