Erica Acie on AI, leadership and why curiosity drives lasting impact

As part of HousingWire’s Editor’s Choice awards spotlight series, we’re spotlighting past Women of Influence honorees whose careers, leadership and insights continue to influence the industry. This series offers a closer look at the experiences and decisions that have shaped their paths.

HousingWire spoke with Erica Acie, Head of Originations at Truist, about leadership, AI adoption and the evolving future of mortgage originations.

Acie was recognized as a 2024 Women of Influence honoree for her leadership in expanding access to homeownership, strengthening community lending initiatives and developing high-performing teams across originations and business strategy. She also has played an active role in mentoring future industry leaders through organizations like NAMMBA while championing affordable housing opportunities and community impact.

Women of Influence recognizes the leaders making a meaningful impact across mortgage, real estate and homebuilding. Nominations for the 2026 Women of Influence awards are open now through May 31.

HousingWire: What are you most focused on right now either within your organization or in response to broader industry shifts?

Erica Acie: I believe many people currently have AI fatigue. However, when you align AI with the WIFM (What’s In It For Me) I think it lands different for improved adoption.

Redefining the originations model in response to both rapid technological advancement and increasing market complexity is an area of focus. Leaning deeply into AI and technology as a core capability continues to be vital to the longer-term strategy. The industry is at an inflection point where AI is no longer experimental, it’s becoming embedded into how we originate, underwrite, and serve clients.

Our focus is on scaling AI responsibly, ensuring it’s governed, trusted, and aligned to real production outcomes — not just innovation for innovation’s sake.

As AI expands access to data and insights, differentiation shifts to the human experience. Our teams are critical in applying judgment, building trust, and translating insights into meaningful client advice. We are deliberately leaning into a human-in-the-loop approach, where AI enhances recommendations, but people remain accountable for outcomes and relationships.

Ultimately, the future of originations will be defined by how well we integrate AI, data, and human expertise. The organizations that win won’t be the ones with the most technology but the ones that apply it most effectively to improve both performance and the client experience.

HW: What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned that more people in this industry should understand?

Erica Acie: Embracing is the power of relentless curiosity. The most impactful leaders are not the ones with all the answers — they are the ones bold enough to ask the right questions.

Curiosity ignites discovery. It challenges assumptions, uncovers hidden opportunities, and allows you to move beyond surface-level thinking to truly understand what’s driving outcomes.

Great leaders don’t just solve problems; they build engines of repeatable success. In a fast-moving, high-stakes environment, curiosity isn’t optional — it’s the catalyst that turns insight into action and action into sustained impact.

HW: What advice would you give to the next generation of women in housing?

Erica Acie: Start by mastering your internal mindset. Before you lead others, you must believe deeply that you are ready.

“We got this” isn’t just a phrase; it’s a commitment to your own capability. Trust your instincts as much as your data, and don’t wait for permission to step forward.

At the same time, build your leadership on substance and sustainability. Let data be your superpower — it gives your voice weight and your strategy credibility.

And most importantly, focus on building real relationships, not just networks. This industry is built on trust and impact. When you combine confidence, insight, and genuine connection, you don’t just advance — you create lasting influence and open doors for others to follow.

Click here to nominate a 2026 Woman of Influence.