Title: 1) Associate Broker; 2) Treasurer
Company: 1) ERA Young Realty & Investment; 2) Central Arizona Association of Realtors
Location: Payson, Arizona, United States
Stephen L. Cantrill, MA, Associate Broker at ERA Young Realty & Investment and treasurer at Central Arizona Association of Realtors, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Executives for dedication, achievements, and leadership in Real Estate Services and Finance.
Mr. Cantrill’s professional journey reflects a lengthy record of service, leadership and adaptability across multiple sectors. In 2024, he assumed the role of associate broker at ERA Young Realty & Investment. As a top producer, he is known for his deep knowledge of the local market, his commitment to ethical standards, and his expertise in both commercial and residential real estate. Before pivoting to the role of associate broker, Mr. Cantrill gained significant experience as a realtor at ERA for nearly two decades, beginning in 1997, during which he developed a reputation for integrity and client advocacy.
Between 2002 and 2008, Mr. Cantrill served as the president of Realty Executives, Payson & the Pines, where he guided the firm through significant growth while maintaining high service standards. His role involved managing the franchise real estate sales company, recruiting and training professional sales personnel, developing and managing the website for marketing purposes, and personally overseeing numerous listings and sales, which averaged $10-$15 million annually.
Earlier in his career, Mr. Cantrill served as the director of contracts at the Resolution Trust Corporation’s Valley Forge office. In this capacity, he managed two contracting offices with over 40 contract specialists and a combined workload of over $1 billion in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Mr. Cantrill’s federal service was his most significant, spanning over 25 years with the U.S. Department of Defense, where he contributed to operations involving the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy and the Defense Logistics Agency. Rising through the ranks from intern trainee to senior executive service without relocating to Washington, D.C., he demonstrated exceptional perseverance and leadership. Mr. Cantrill is particularly proud of his advancement within civil service and his ability to lead teams in diverse locations across the United States.
In addition to his real estate and government work, Mr. Cantrill taught as a professor at his alma mater, the University of Phoenix in Phoenix, Arizona, for 10 years. This decade-long tenure allowed him to share his professional knowledge and expertise with adult learners.
From 1969 to 1970, Mr. Cantrill served his country as a sergeant (E-5) in U.S. Army artillery during the Vietnam conflict. This experience instilled discipline and resilience that have informed his subsequent professional endeavors.
Mr. Cantrill’s academic achievements include a bachelor’s degree from Northern Illinois University in DeKalb in 1968 and a Master of Arts in organizational management with a focus on business from the University of Phoenix in 1991. He also holds several industry credentials, including being a licensed realtor, a certified residential specialist and a graduate of the Realtor Institute. These designations have underpinned Mr. Cantrill’s success in real estate by equipping him with comprehensive market knowledge and negotiation skills.
Professional and civic engagement is central to Mr. Cantrill’s life. He currently serves as the treasurer for the Central Arizona Association of Realtors, where he oversees financial planning and leads the finance committee, which comprises approximately 450 realtor members. Working closely with executive officers and staff, Mr. Cantrill ensures the organization’s fiscal stability, supports educational initiatives and coordinates charitable events, such as the annual food delivery programs for homebound residents during the Thanksgiving holiday.
Among other civic and community efforts, Mr. Cantrill volunteers monthly as a cook at the local Elks Lodge. Alongside his wife, he also supports fundraising efforts for both the Humane Society and Rim Country Artists. Moreover, Mr. Cantrill has been affiliated with the Masonic Shriners Club as a member and four-time past president, and the local Rotary Club as both a member and past president.
Recognizing his military service, Mr. Cantrill was selected for an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. The program offers these free trips to honor and celebrate veterans who have served in certain wars, including the Vietnam War.
Throughout his career, Mr. Cantrill has attributed his achievements to perseverance, sound decision-making and continuous skill development. He is recognized for his level-headed approach to negotiation, managing issues factually rather than confrontationally, and for fostering teamwork within organizations. Mr. Cantrill’s early adoption of computer technology also set him apart in both government and real estate roles.
Mentorship has also played a significant role in shaping Mr. Cantrill’s career and leadership style. He credits one notable lieutenant colonel and author for modeling clear communication and autonomy during their time together in defense contracting. In real estate, a long-standing trust with Mr. Cantrill’s designated broker reinforced his commitment to fiduciary responsibility and adherence to the Realtor Code of Ethics.
Mr. Cantrill’s legacy is defined by unwavering integrity, steadfast leadership and a lifelong commitment to service, qualities that have earned him respect throughout every phase of his distinguished career. Looking ahead, he intends to continue contributing to the real estate market while remaining engaged in volunteer activities with both the Central Arizona Association of Realtors and the Elks Lodge. Serving residents within a retirement community brings Mr. Cantrill fulfillment as he helps others achieve their goals.
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