NJ IFMA

Women in Facility Management, March 18, 2025

njifmasocial@Gmail.com (NJ IFMA) — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 00:56:05 GMT

NJ IFMA Women in Facility Management Had a Blast at the NJ Hall of Fame!

On March 18, NJ IFMA Women in Facility Management had an unforgettable time at the New Jersey Hall of Fame, located in the iconic American Dream Mall. A weekday visit from 4 to 6 PM turned out to be the perfect time to explore this hidden gem, and the incredibly helpful staff ensured we made the most of our experience.

From the moment we arrived, we immersed ourselves in the exhibits, celebrating the remarkable achievements of New Jersey’s finest. Cindi and Lisa even got the chance to sing along with Gloria Gaynor, while the whole group took a thrilling trip as we "flew to the moon" and interviewed some of our favorite NJ heroes. Before heading out, we captured fun memories at the interactive green screen selfie station, posing with our favorite inductees and taking home a souvenir photo.

After our visit, we enjoyed a delicious bite to eat and strolled through the mall’s expansion, making the most of another fantastic opportunity for casual networking and getting to know each other better.

It was truly a night to remember—great company, great fun, and an inspiring tribute to the legacy of New Jersey’s legends!

Women in Facility Management, October 29, 2024

njifmasocial@Gmail.com (NJ IFMA) — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 06:18:46 GMT

On October 29, 2024, the Women in FM group were able to tour AriZona Iced Tea manufacturing operation in Keasbey, NJ.

We were treated to a guided tour, complete with headphones and hairnets, along an elevated decorated walkway overlooking the plants’ operations.

We gathered in their whimsical lobby, done in their colors, surrounded by their recognizable cherry trees. At the end of the tour, we were treated to a selection of their products and were tempted by their assortment of AriZona branded sweatshirts, hats, socks, and other items for sale.

Just like a Disney ride that lets you off in the gift shop!

FM Spotlight - Kevin Fischer, FMP

njifmasocial@Gmail.com (NJ IFMA) — Sun, 21 Jul 2024 21:09:12 GMT

Kevin Fischer, FMP, Facilities Operations Manager

Bristol Myers Squibb

Kevin Fischer has built a solid career in facilities management, starting from humble beginnings in a Property Management Technician role at Target. With a BS in Marketing and BS in Management from William Paterson University and various industry certifications such as Universal 608 Technician and Facility Management Professional (FMP), Kevin’s educational background and experience have equipped him with the necessary skills to excel in the field.

Throughout his career, Kevin has held various roles in facilities management, including Facilities, Operations Supervisor for a General Aviation Airport and Facilities Operations Manager for different pharmaceutical companies. His hands-on experience in handling building components and systems, as well as problem-solving skills, have made him an asset in ensuring the smooth operations of offices, R&D facilities, warehousing, manufacturing, and distribution centers.

Despite already having an impressive resume, Kevin is constantly seeking ways to further enhance his knowledge and skills. Currently pursuing an MBA with a focus in leadership and corporate finance at the University of Iowa, as well as studying to become a Certified Reliability Leader, Kevin is dedicated to continuous learning and growth in the field of facilities management.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Kevin enjoys spending time on DIY projects around the house and immersing himself in the great outdoors through activities like camping, fishing, and hiking. A sports enthusiast, Kevin also enjoys watching New Jersey Devils Hockey in his free time.

With his passion for facilities management, dedication to continuous learning, and a well- rounded set of skills and experiences, Kevin Fischer is certainly a rising star in the field. Keep an eye out for this talented professional as he continues to make a mark in the industry.

Gratitude for Joanne: Reflecting on a Decade of Commitment

njifmasocial@Gmail.com (NJ IFMA) — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 04:44:18 GMT

After ten years of supporting our chapter including five Executive Committees with multiple personalities, Joanne Gerow decided it was time to retire. Joanne was the friendly face at the registration table for all the meetings and events and was everyone’s go to whether it was a question on the chapter By-Laws, where to get catering for an upcoming meeting, or who took home the IFMA banner. We appreciated her input during Board Meetings. To say that we took her for granted is an understatement. We will miss you Joanne, and hope you will drop by a meeting or event as a valued guest. At the Winter Social this past December, we thanked Joanne for her years of service and several Past Presidents both in attendance and remote, expressed their appreciation to her.

Joanne has been instrumental in the transition to our new administrative support, Hassan Consultants, an association management company providing efficient and cost effective management services to trade and professional associations and societies. We are excited to work with their team and take advantage of what they can share from their experiences working with other associations. We hope that all chapter members and guests will be able to meet them over the next few months as the NJ IFMA schedule of events is growing again post COVID.

Women in Facility Management, February 7, 2024

njifmasocial@Gmail.com (NJ IFMA) — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 07:02:36 GMT

On February 7, 2024, sixteen women members of our chapter participated in a volunteer event at the Community Food Bank of NJ in Hillside. Our task was to go through various boxes of donations, most of them very large, check expiration dates, sort into smaller boxes of various product categories, and box them up.

Some of us sorted through the donations, others weighed the finished repackaged boxes, and others made sure we had an endless supply of new boxes ready to go. It was fast paced for sure.

We turned out 120 boxes that will then go to the food bank’s community partners for distribution to families. The statistics they provided on food insecurity across the country and here in New Jersey are staggering, and we were proud to participate, many of us bringing our own donations.

As with all Women in FM event, our group of 16 enjoyed getting to know one another better and maybe even made some business connections.

Check out the Food Bank’s good works at their website, www.cfbnj.org .

Women in Facility Management, November 13, 2023

njifmasocial@Gmail.com (NJ IFMA) — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 06:16:37 GMT

On November 13, 2023, several women from the Chapter toured the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Robbinsville.

In Sanskrit, Mandir means a place where the mind becomes still and experiences inner peace. From their website, “The BAPS in Robbinsville NJ will inspire the onlookers through its divinity, architecture, and humanitarian efforts for generations to come.”

This location is a masterpiece of exquisite Indian design and workmanship. The building in the photo was recently finished and dedicated this past October and is breathtaking.

We arranged for a tour guide but individuals and families are not required to book their visit in advance. They have a café that is open until 8 PM with authentic cuisine.

Check out their website www.baps.org/global-network/north-america/robbinsville.aspx to learn about the site and information for visiting.

Thank you to Alice Acevedo for recommending we visit here, and to Lauren Tait and Cindi Vasta for the photos.

Women in Facility Management, March 2, 2023

njifmasocial@Gmail.com (NJ IFMA) — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 23:00:40 GMT

On March 2, 2023, a dozen chapter members visited the Montclair Art Museum, MAM, to view the exhibit Vanessa German, “please imagine all the things I cannot say…” The exhibit was a large-scale, immersive installation of mixed-media artworks from 2016-2022 utilizing unique and found objects.

The art pieces created some interesting conversations within the group and captured what we hope to gain from these events – an opportunity to network informally with industry peers. Casual dinner followed in vibrant downtown Montclair.

FM Spotlight - Loraine Ungano, CFM, SFP

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 22:42:29 GMT

Loraine Ungano, CFM, SFP – ABM, Strategic Account Manager, Boeing

Interviewed by: Dana Reynolds of The Holder Group

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I grew up in Piscataway and am the oldest of five siblings. My husband and I of 34 years have one son who currently serves in the Navy. My family has been living in the Princeton area for the past 16 years. I enjoy cooking, entertaining, gardening and traveling.

How and when did you get your start in Facilities Management?

By accident, and with the great relationships I’ve formed has kept me in the industry for 30 + years. During my Senior year in High School, I was fortunate to participate in a work program at Colgate-Palmolive R&D. It was an excellent experience. The Program had me rotate through various

departments every 2 months or so. This allowed me to work in different capacities and learn about various roles and what goes on in an R&D environment.

I typed research reports for the Scientists, worked in the Technology Center, which was the on-site library, and the Corporate Data Center, to name a few. Participating in this program, led to a full-time position after graduating high school. I was fortunate to be able to take advantage of Colgate’s tuition refund program and was able to obtain an AAS in Business Administration from Middlesex County College and a BA in Psychology from Rutgers University. Colgate truly cared about helping employees advance their career, whether it was formal education, training, or mentoring.

While working and studying, I was able to move into a new position every 2 years or so until I became the Office Services Manager reporting to the Controller. In this role I was responsible for all aspects of mailroom, reprographics, furniture & fixtures, Company Store and Food Services. Reporting to the Controller gave me other opportunities to hone in on financials in other areas of Colgate’s business.

Eventually, I was moved to the Facilities Management/Engineering group which consisted of all degreed Engineers. Moving to this group added additional responsibilities such as space planning & design, contract management of hard and soft services, conference services, Telecommunications as well as leased space that housed a packaging facility. Learned all aspects of working in an R&D/regulated environment with GMP labs and Pilot Plants.

I became the Liaison for the site overseeing our single service provider for all non-core business. Here is where I learned my “engineering”, by shadowing and going to look and learn about all the building operations systems, etc.; from roof top to boiler house and beyond and attended all the weekly engineering meetings. Again, I was so fortunate to have such great mentors. Eventually they gave me an “honorary engineer” diploma. Just don’t put a wrench in my hand.

After Colgate I moved into the service provider side and was lead in transitioning Large International Accounts to IFM in the manufacturing and R&D environments. Although I was away from home M-F, I enjoyed working and meeting other FMs from all walks of life/countries. An entirely new experience and learning.

What does your role at the ABM entail?

I am the Strategic Account Manager on the Boeing account for ABM. I am the single point of contact, on a national scale, for the client and ABM staff regarding services and governance. I manage the financial performance, operational excellence, and client relationship of all accounts – including the development of new relationships in order to grow the business. I am also responsible for consistently developing and improving processes and systems to reduce costs and increase customer satisfaction while adhering to contract specifications and budgetary goals.

Who has been the biggest influence in your professional career and why?

Besides all the mentors I have had along the way; dear friend and co-worker of mine has been such an inspiration to me. She was incredible academic—with a BS in Chemistry went on to a MA Labor Relations and then a law degree while working full time. She encouraged me to continue my college education and get my degree no matter how long it took.

How long have you been involved with IFMA?

I’ve been involved with IFMA for a long time, getting my CFM in 1997 (currently maintaining) and SFP in 2014. I enjoy sharing experiences and learning from others. It’s always good to know that we share successes and challenges in the FM world and can get some very good ideas on working through the challenges.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned in your career?

Never ask anyone to do something that you wouldn’t do yourself. My job is to help the people who report to me be successful. Remove all the roadblocks for them and so they can do the best job possible. Colgate’s culture was that it was the responsibility of the Manager to make their team successful and help them advance their careers.

What do you offer that is unique in the industry?

I am good at listening and helping the client discover what they really need. Many times, they will tell you what they think they want, but that is not always what they need. I have learned that it is important to always have a Plan B in case Plan A doesn’t work or is not accepted.

What advice do you have for someone new coming into the industry?

Be open minded, learn all you can, find someone in your organization to have as a mentor, and set goals/objectives to get to where you want to be. Ask yourself, “what did I learn today”?

SFP Class Begins January 23, 2023 Brookdale Community College

Sat, 14 Jan 2023 07:28:30 GMT

Instructor-led SFP® Course at Brookdale Community College

Beginning January 23 to April 24, 2023, Monday evenings from 5:00pm – 9:00pm, Dennis James Kowal, SFP, FMP, AIA, LEED AP, will be instructing Brookdale College’s remote learning version of the IFMA Sustainability Facility Professional® (SFP) Credential Course.

This certification program of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) will help you create, manage, and operate a sustainable facility by increasing your knowledge in three areas, strategy and alignment, management, and operations. Better still, it instantly boosts your professional standing!

Click here for more information.

This course is recommended for anyone in the Facility Management field, building owners, or safety engineers seeking to operate a facility more efficiently and responsibly. If you are looking to comply with the Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act, this course is for you!

Please forward this information to anyone you think would be interested in this personal skills development opportunity.

Mondays, January 23 – April 24, 5:00pm – 9:030pm, Online live instruction

Fee: $2,159 (including materials and testing)

FMP Course at Brookdale Community College Jan 17, 2023

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 22:02:00 GMT

Instructor-led FMP® Online Course at Brookdale Community College.

Beginning January 17, 2023 to April 13, 2023, Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, Kevin Phoenix , CFM, FMP will be instructing Brookdale College’s remote learning version of the IFMA Facility Management Professional (FMP) Credential Course.

The Facility Management Professional (FMP) credential of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) is a must-have for current and future facility managers, commercial real estate management professionals as well as suppliers whom support facility and real estate management customers. The course provides in-depth training in the competencies of Leadership & Strategy, Finance & Business, Project Management and Operations & Maintenance.

Click the following link for more information .

This course is recommended for anyone in the Facility Management, Maintenance or Manufacturing Support industries. Please forward this information to anyone you think would be interested in this personal skills development opportunity.

Tues & Thurs, Jan 17 – Apr 13, 6:00pm – 7:30pm, Online live instruction
Fee and Code: $2,499 (including materials and testing)

Note: Please register at least one week before the start date so that materials are received in time for the first class.

FM Spotlight - Carlos Molina, CFM

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 19:37:00 GMT

Carlos Molina, CFM Facility Manager NBA

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I am a native New Yorker, but moved to New Jersey 18 years ago. I have been married for 26 years and we have two sons. I love traveling, fishing, and swimming.

How and when did you get your start in Facilities Management?

As an electrician by trade in the military, I started a real estate company in my late 20s, buying and selling residential/commercial properties. That lead me to go to school for HVAC/R to advance my knowledge further and be able to repair equipment instead of paying a contractor.

What does your role at the NBA entail?

I pretty much do the whole facility gambit here. I maintain day-to-day operations of our facilities. I am also in charge of delegating maintenance requests from team members, scheduling routine inspections and emergency repairs with outside vendors, and ensuring the mission-critical and broadcast systems are up 100% at all times for game operations.

How long have you been involved with IFMA?

I’ve been involved on and off with IFMA for five years.

At what point in your career did you begin taking facilities management classes and receive your designation?

I took classes around 15 years ago on energy efficiency practices and building automation systems. I always love the control side of how things work. My process was if you can learn the control side, you will have in-depth knowledge of any system.

I received my CFM in 2017 while working as a critical facility Lead IT consultant for PSEG company.

Tell us about a challenge or obstacle that you face (or faced) in the Facilities world.

The CFM designation led me into the facility management and construction division, where I oversaw the operations of electric transmission and gas buildings in 31 buildings. The assigned facilities totaled over 2.1 million sq. ft. of office space. I managed all service contracts including custodial, life-safety, grounds, general maintenance, and all MEPS. The biggest challenge was not providing 100% customer satisfaction due to cost or budget restraints within the different departments.

How do you define success?

My success is measured in a healthy work and home balance. I have been the guy answering his phone 7 days a week nonstop. I am very proactive and try to do more work on the front end in order to avoid reacting to issues after they’ve already happened.

What advice do you have for someone new coming into the industry?

Learn as much as possible. The facilities world is fast-moving with growing technologies for improving the world we live in.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I am a native New Yorker, but moved to New Jersey 18 years ago. I have been married for 26 years and we have two sons. I love traveling, fishing, and swimming.

How and when did you get your start in Facilities Management?

As an electrician by trade in the military, I started a real estate company in my late 20s, buying and selling residential/commercial properties. That lead me to go to school for HVAC/R to advance my knowledge further and be able to repair equipment instead of paying a contractor.

What does your role at the NBA entail?

I pretty much do the whole facility gambit here. I maintain day-to-day operations of our facilities. I am also in charge of delegating maintenance requests from team members, scheduling routine inspections and emergency repairs with outside vendors, and ensuring the mission-critical and broadcast systems are up 100% at all times for game operations.

How long have you been involved with IFMA?

I’ve been involved on and off with IFMA for five years.

At what point in your career did you begin taking facilities management classes and receive your designation?

I took classes around 15 years ago on energy efficiency practices and building automation systems. I always love the control side of how things work. My process was if you can learn the control side, you will have in-depth knowledge of any system.

I received my CFM in 2017 while working as a critical facility Lead IT consultant for PSEG company.

Tell us about a challenge or obstacle that you face (or faced) in the Facilities world.

The CFM designation led me into the facility management and construction division, where I oversaw the operations of electric transmission and gas buildings in 31 buildings. The assigned facilities totaled over 2.1 million sq. ft. of office space. I managed all service contracts including custodial, life-safety, grounds, general maintenance, and all MEPS. The biggest challenge was not providing 100% customer satisfaction due to cost or budget restraints within the different departments.

How do you define success?

My success is measured in a healthy work and home balance. I have been the guy answering his phone 7 days a week nonstop. I am very proactive and try to do more work on the front end in order to avoid reacting to issues after they’ve already happened.

What advice do you have for someone new coming into the industry?

Learn as much as possible. The facilities world is fast-moving with growing technologies for improving the world we live in.

Women in Facility Management, January 26, 2022

njifmasocial@Gmail.com (NJ IFMA) — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 22:42:05 GMT

On January 26, 2022, from 5 PM to 6:30 PM, 19 ladies from the NJ IFMA Chapter gathered via Zoom for a first ever “Show & Tell”. I must admit, I needed to be talked into this. The idea came from Jackie Lewis, who always has a few suggestions to keep us connected with both social and educational opportunities.

The “Show & Tell” was advertised as a no pressure event – you could have up to 5 minutes to show the group something, or you could choose to just watch and be a good listener. We provided some examples – Grandma’s handwritten recipe, an antique, a good read, a skill, a craft.

The time flew by as we learned two of our participants were award winning dancers, saw some sentimental family treasures, saw a recently finished quilt, and a new engagement ring! We shared some book recommendations, met a few pets, and saw vacation photos. We may be planning a trip to Easter Island. (Not ��)

While many of us feel zoomed out, all agreed this was time well spent. It was good to connect, see and hear voices that we had not in a while, and express our hopes to meet in person soon. The connections are what is great about the NJ Women in FM group. WFM does not ask NJ IFMA for financial support. The outings are paid for directly by the attendee.

If you are a female NJ IFMA member, you automatically receive the invitations to the outings. Please consider participating when you receive your next invitation.

For more information, to get involved, or to submit an idea, please send us a message and someone will contact you.

FM Spotlight - Donald Drost

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 21:58:00 GMT

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am the Executive Director, Facilities Management at Middlesex College. We are a 2-year community college in Edison, New Jersey with 10,500 students on a 190 acre campus with 35 building totaling about 900,000 square feet. I work with a staff of 86 facilities professionals in areas of grounds, custodial, maintenance trades, capital construction, utilities, warehousing, events and administrative support. Our operating budget is $5.2M. I report to the College President and am a member of his executive team that works closely with our Board of Trustees.

How and when did you get your start in Facilities Management?

My first job out of Trenton State College (now College of New Jersey) in 1981 with my freshly minted bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering was in plant engineering for a Fortune 200 corporation that had a manufacturing plant in North Brunswick, New Jersey. This position was a combination of facilities and production engineering. I worked under a seasoned Plant Engineer, and later a Plant Manager that took me under his wings and provided the foundation for my career.

At what point in your career did you begin taking facilities management classes and receive your designations?

After beginning my employment at Middlesex College as a Plant Engineer in 1988, I become active in APPA (a higher education facilities management organization) and completed their Institute for Facilities Management. I later earned my Certified Plant Engineer designation from what is now the Association of Facilities Engineers (AFE). I returned to graduate school later in my career and earned my Masters in Engineering Management at New Jersey Institute of Technology in 2005. My graduate studies included coursework in Facilities Management.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned in your career?

Be patient and remain calm. In facilities management you deal with all kinds of emergencies including hurricanes and pandemics with an occasional building fire or two. And once in a while, you receive a phone call from the secret service saying the President of the United States will be visiting your campus in 2 days and you need to prepare (by the third time I had these presidential visits down to a science J). The second lesson is to build a strong team that you can depend on. They will help you more than you could ever help yourself. Be honest with your team members and co-workers from other departments, and they will treat you with respect.

Tell us about a challenge or obstacle that you face (or faced) in the Facilities world.

Earning a place at the executive table. In the NJ community college sector it was typical for facilities to report to a VP of Finance. This made it difficult to manage the facilities operations in support of the campus community as information was always second hand or filtered. When the VP of Finance was retiring I asked the College President for an opportunity to report directly to him and participate as a member of his executive team. He agreed provided I earned a Master’s Degree. Going back to graduate school later in life with a family was not easy. However, I persevered my children questioning my grades and why I was waiting to the last minute to complete my homework. Boy did they turn the table on me! The result was becoming the first facilities manager at a NJ community college to report directly to the College President. Since then many of my peers have followed in my footsteps. I also believe COVID-19 provided this opportunity for facilities professions to elevate their standing as well. All of a sudden the President/CEO and everyone else in the world needed to know how the HVAC system works. Facilities professionals were the rock stars of COVID-19 along with other front line workers. At Middlesex College, the College President selected me to chair the College Return to Campus Task Force consisting of campus executives, staff and faculty.

How do you define success?

In higher education success is defined by the success of our students. That means providing a campus that is conducive to learning and teaching. One of my duties is to pass the diplomas to the College President on the platform at commencement. Standing there knowing that our facilities team played a role in each of those students walking across the stage to receive their degree is the ultimate measure of success.

When looking to hire qualified candidates would you look for designations on resumes?

Not as a primary qualification but more as a preferred requirement. With all things being equal between two candidates, I would give preference to the one with credentials. It shows a willingness to invest in themselves and improve their knowledge base to advance their career.

What benefit do you personally receive from being a member of NJ IFMA and what is the value it can offer young professionals – why should they become involved in the organization?

I am relatively new to IFMA having only been a member for a few years. As with most professional organizations the biggest value is professional development and networking opportunities. NJ IFMA provides young professionals the ability to learn from “seasoned” professionals such as myself. I also see value in the diversity that NJ IFMA offers young professionals. The facilities professionals and associate members come from a wide variety of businesses and industries that possess a wealth of knowledge.

Do you have a mentor or role model in your career that has helped guide you on your path?

Dr. John Bakum was the College President that gave me the seat at the executive table. He later spent countless hours guiding me to improve my management skills. He was also a degreed engineer that took a career path in education teaching electrical engineering. Having that engineering training gave us something in common and led to successful careers for both of us.

If you were not in this industry, what would you like to do?

While in high school and college I was racing motocross on weekends and working to become a professional rider. A severe knee injury ended that career path but I always wished I could have seen it through to fruition.

What advice would you give someone new coming into the industry?

A career in Facilities Management involves operations that for the most part function 24/7. You need to develop a good life balance between work and home. Dedicate yourself to being the best professional you can be while still enjoying your family and life away from work. My work is fast paced and time consuming, yet I still manage to go camping with my wife, children, and grandchildren along with taking motorcycle trips with my friends. Find your happy medium.

FM Spotlight Carol Hart-Sosinski

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 00:56:00 GMT

Carol Hart-Sosinski | Director of Customer Service Federal Business Centers, Inc.

Tell us a little about yourself?

I’ve lived in NJ my entire life. I’ve been married to John for 38 years. We were friends in high school, and he got me my first job, part time after school, working in an engineering office. I folded the blueprints. We have two children, both married. Tracee is a teacher in PA with 2 children of her own, and Rob lives in NJ and works in the precipitator field. That’s something to do with air pollution controls.

How and when did you get your start in Facilities Management?

I was working as a Property Manager for The Gale Company when we won the first outsourced FM assignment from AT&T. While I didn’t work on that account, I was soon part of the team that responded to RFP’s for third party FM assignments. We were lucky enough to win assignments with Siemens, Toys R Us, NY Life, Panasonic, and many others. Those accounts were part of the portfolio that I managed. I feel so lucky to have worked as both a Property Manager and Facility Manager. In fact, when I started working for Federal Business Centers in 2009, I asked if I could do a presentation for the workforce on the differences between the two. So while I’m back now in Property Management, I understand what our tenants deal with inside their spaces, and can assist them.

At what point in your career did you begin taking facilities management classes and receive your designations?

Shame on me, I don’t have an FM designation. I did earn an RPA from BOMI when I first became involved in property management and earned a Business Management degree from Centenary University

What is the biggest lesson you have learned in your career?

I find myself repeating some simple advice I received a long time ago from people in the industry who I admire and respect – who will remain nameless but they will know if they read this – first is Don’t fight battles you can’t win. Simple, right? But that’s one that works professionally and personally. Another is Attitude over Aptitude. If you have the right attitude, you are worth the time it takes to learn something you don’t know. When I first started at Gale & Wentworth, I had no experience with budgeting and financial reporting, but I learned quickly and can provide a great variance explanation, and calculate a CAM credit.

How do you define success?

Respect from peers and those who I report to.

When looking to hire qualified candidates would you look for designations on resumes?

Yes, but you can’t discount those who might not have a designation, but have lots of experience and the right attitude. People need to be proud of whatever job they have, and perform to their utmost ability. When I put my kids on the school bus when they were young, I had to believe that bus driver was proud of their job and were going to do the best job they could.

What benefit do you personally receive from being a member of NJ IFMA and what is the value it can offer young professionals – why should they become involved in the organization?

To begin with, I think the value for young professionals is belonging to a network. I’m not so sure they all recognize the true meaning of this and significance it has for their personal and professional growth.

NJ IFMA continues to allow me to organize events and meetings for two groups – first being what we call FM Breakfasts. Started in 2017, we meet at least quarterly for an informal roundtable, hosted by different members at their locations. I’ve learned a lot from this group, and I know it has resulted in the participants forming their own relationships and reaching out to each other for support and help. The other is what we call Women in FM. In it’s 8th year, we invite all the females in the chapter to both fun and educational events several times a year. The goal is for the women members to get to know each other better on an informal basis, which in turn encourages meeting attendance and committee participation.

Do you have a mentor or role model in your career that has helped guide you on your path?

I’ve had many, too many to name. I have learned from people I report to as well as people who have reported to me over the years. It’s really important to try to understand people’s motivation and sincerity. I’ve run across people who would step on anyone to get ahead; some are successful, others not so much.

If you were not in this industry, what would you like to do?

I like this question, very early on I wanted to do something in the medical field. I wasn’t motivated enough to consider medical school – I barely made it out of biology. But now I’m very motivated in opportunities to give back. I believe there’s a connection there.

What would you like to achieve next in your career?

Keeping in mind this is December, 2020, I am anxious to witness the COVID recovery. There’s so much that’s unknown, businesses that are struggling to hold on, and other businesses that have a tremendous opportunity to grow. If you’re involved in Logistics and willing to take some risks, you could be in for a wild ride.

What do you enjoy most about working for Federal Business Centers?

Federal Business Centers is an awesome company to work for. Our opinions are always requested, even if the decision goes another way. Building relationships with our customers is our main goal, and throughout COVID, we have bonded in a way that is sometimes hard to comprehend with both co-workers and customers.

What advice would you give someone new coming into the industry?

It is a concern that so many Facility and Property Managers are nearing the latter part of their careers, and there is a shortage of those coming into the industry. What is encouraging is that there are educational programs geared directly to our industry, whereas many of us fell into the industry, perhaps from a construction job, HR, or Office Management. I would encourage the young professionals to get involved with an organization where they can meet others and build their network. Our service provider partners need to be respected and appreciated for being there when needed, and sharing their knowledge with us.

FM Spotlight - David Myers, IFM Lead: North America

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 00:59:00 GMT

FM Spotlight David Myers, IFM Lead: North America

David Myers is a Facilities Operations Professional at JLL with over 20 years of experience in corporate real estate, logistic warehousing, and construction project management. He is a proven effective team manager with strong communication and client relationship skills.

David worked as an operations manager at the startup Ferring Pharmaceuticals managing the facilities team on its 25-acre campus. David then joined JLL in 2016, as a Regional Facilities Manager on the Amazon account In this position he managed 21 logistics stations totaling 1.5 million square feet in his portfolio. In 2018, David joined the Diageo account overseeing 26 corporate real estate offices and manufacturing plants totaling 2.5 million square feet in the U.S and Canada.

David received a diploma in Electrical Engineering Technology at Union County Vocational school in New Jersey where he holds a Black Seal Boiler Engineering License. He currently belongs to the New Jersey Chapter of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) as Co-chairman of the Communications Committee and member of the Professional Development Committee while pursuing a Facility Management Professional Certificate.

How and when did you get your start in Facilities Management?
I began my career in electrical maintenance and found my way into a facility manager position without knowing much about the field of facility management. However, once I delved into learning more about the skill set and responsibilities required to be a successful FM, I knew that my electrical and pipe fitting background and project management experience would be an asset.

At what point in your career did you begin taking facilities management classes and receive your designations?
I decided to enroll in the FMP program this year during the COVID pandemic. Although I’ve relied heavily on my experience during this time, in order to continue to grow and learn, I’ve enrolled in the online credential program. I hope to complete the program in 2021 and then enroll in another credential.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned in your career?
In order to grow professionally, it’s important to take the initiative and get out of your comfort zone. I used to avoid doing this but quickly realized that if you want to learn and advance you HAVE to take on new projects, volunteer to do the things no one else wants to do, and assist your leadership teams in all new endeavors.

What value do you feel NJ IFMA has to offer young professionals and why should they become involved in the organization?
Networking! Networking in the FM world is one of the most beneficial aspects of NJ IFMA. No matter if it’s a personnel issue, a structural problem, or a vendor recommendation, there has been at least one person who has come across the same scenario and can assist you with problem solving and sharing best practices.

Do you have a mentor or role model in your career that has helped guide you on your path?
I’ve had multiple professionals mentor me during the course of my career who have set exemplary standards. Kathryn Burkhardt, who has been a NJ IFMA member since 2017, has always been available to coach me and offer advice on various topics such as hiring recommendations and career decisions.

What advice would you give someone new coming into the industry?
Network, ask questions, and build relationships with people who know more than you. Facility management is an ever-changing and evolving industry, so learn as much as you can from the people around you. Join IFMA groups and IFMA events to expand your knowledge base. Learn as much as you can about managing people including effective managerial practices, communication approaches, and even about the psychology of organizations and their culture. All of this will provide a foundation to help you build a strong and successful team.

FM Spotlight - Joe Morgan CFM, LEED AP

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 09:36:00 GMT

Joe Morgan CFM, LEED AP Director, Facilities Operations Princeton University

NJ IFMA Member since March 2012

Tell us a little about yourself?

I’ve been leading facility departments since the mid 1980’s, in both the manufacturing and educational sectors. I like the role of a leader and have been fortunate throughout my career to have enjoyed great supporting staff members.

Outside of work and my committee role with NJIFMA, I’m a musician and have been playing the clarinet as a member of the Greater Shore Concert Band for the past 15 years. I’ve had the honor of performing at NJPAC, Princeton University, Lincoln Center, and Carnegie Hall, to name a few.

Personally, I’m happily married and the father of two. I also have two wonderful grandchildren.

How and when did you get your start in Facilities Management?

Chemistry had always interested me and was what I studied after high school, believing a pharmaceutical career was in my future. However, while working my way through college, I began as a tradesperson and after a few years was approached by management as a supervisory candidate. From that initial position, I rose through the ranks to my current role as a Director of Facilities.

At what point in your career did you begin taking facilities management classes and receive your designations?

Throughout my career, I have taken various technical classes and managerial seminars. In 2008 I became a LEED Accredited Professional and in 2014 I earned a credential from IFMA as a Certified Facilities Manager. I also hold a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned in your career?

As a leader, it’s so important to honor and respect everyone with whom you interact with. It’s the foundation of building a culture of excellence.

How do you define success?

When you can see and measure a true culture of excellence, workplace safety, and validation from others who benefit from the team’s efforts.

When looking to hire qualified candidates would you look for designations on resumes?

Yes, possessing a professional designation enhances the overall strength of a candidate’s resume.

What value do you feel NJ IFMA has to offer young professionals and why should they become involved in the organization?

All facilities professionals need a support network to be successful. The networking, diverse interactions, and the educational opportunities offered by NJIFMA are extremely valuable to all members, particularly those who are young professionals.

Do you have a mentor or role model in your career that has helped guide you on your path?

I’ve been fortunate in that aspect. Several senior leaders have guided me along in my career. However, I also tend to learn things from my day-today interactions with people. Having a curious mind helps along with an attitude of continuous improvement.

If you were not in this industry, what would you like to do?

Probably a musician somewhere, but I’d most likely have lots of problems paying the bills. Lol!

If there was one person you would like to meet in your lifetime, who would it be and why?

Jackie Robinson, although he has passed away. I admire him so much because of all he overcame in his life and he did it with great bravery and class. He is a hero to me.

What is your favorite IFMA event-Local, Regional and or International?

IFMA World Workplace is my favorite and I always come away from each conference with something innovative that I can introduce to my organization.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Spending time with my family, going to the shore, and just about anything to do with music.

What would you like to achieve next in your career?

Aside from continuous learning, I get joy from helping others achieve and be the best they can be, particularly those involved in Facilities Management.

What are your favorite things about YOUR COMPANY?

The environment and culture at Princeton University is one of high expectations, support, and achievement. I feel fortunate to be surrounded by so many wonderful people and programs. At Princeton, there is so much history and tradition that it’s impossible not to embody the culture and have it become part of your personal belief system.

What advice would you give someone new coming into the industry?

Build a strong support network and look to continuously educate and self-improve. Establish a career plan. Join professional organizations such as NJIFMA. Take time to enjoy yourself. Support, develop, and recognize the achievements of others. Most importantly, lead by example and maintain the highest level of personal values. I have seen line staffers develop into Vice Presidents of companies. If you have the drive and determination you can rise in any organization.

Facility Managers and the Day to Day

Fri, 11 Jan 2019 19:10:00 GMT

I find the execution of my daily routine to be anything but that. We all have visions of how our training and, position in our organization, will help us create the best possible work environment. We see ourselves introducing amazing new and improved day to day functionality through sustainability programs and technological advancements. We will be the banner waver for budget saving miracle cures that will make our business community the healthiest, happiest and most fiscally responsible organization possible in our immediate universe. Yeah, that’s the ticket!

Then on the day to day side, there’s the e mail or voice mail, “someone spilled coffee all over the conference room floor last night and it hasn’t been cleaned!” “There’s a package that was delivered for me last week and I can’t find it!” or “ Why can’t I get more heat in my room? It’s only 70 degrees!” Ah yes all the happy campers as I call them.

There’s that e-mail the CFO or VP of Operations forwards to you “The FM told me I can’t have the exercise equipment I requested because it’s not in his budget. How can we get around that?”

I’m sure you all get the gist of it. It doesn’t really matter what type of organization we work in, business, education, health industry, retail etcetera. The calls and issues are unique in content, but the same in effect. The FM’s job is to navigate the big important developmental items and projects, hold the budget line as requested, and hold the hands of all the constituents needing assistance. This makes our shiny FM position a little tarnished in our own eyes, but it is part of our profession and we will manage it. The endless tangents, as I call them, create a group dynamic worthy of its own television show, or blog, or stream or whatever new tech is putting out entertainment these days. Hell I could make a very funny feature movie out of my own dynamic institution. Well it would be funny to us anyway…

The point I’m making is we are all in the same profession. Our jobs may include different aspects of the FM position with different areas of expertise needed, but the “group dynamics” are the common thread we all need to manage while we try to develop and improve the overall workplace evolution. I realized my enjoyment comes from solving problems, any problems. I hope and wonder if you all feel the same?

Saudi Arabia FM Experience

Wed, 26 Dec 2018 01:32:00 GMT

Having just returned from Saudi Arabia to train 15 Facility Managers who work globally for the Saudi telecommunications corporation, Dennis Kowal AIA LEED AP experienced a unique culture first hand. The FM’s have the same needs as anywhere in the world…although snow plowing is not one of them!

Sand storms that can work their way indoors, 115 degree days that tax AC systems, and dry soil that foils electrical grounding, are a few of the differences. But becoming an influential leader, resolving conflicts quickly, and planning and control using a budget were riveting topics for these savvy students.

“I gained greater insight how the Saudi mind works and an appreciation for their ways which reminded me of a more restrained America from fifty years ago. In the end, we became great friends and even shared meals together in their homes” Dennis Kowal is an international speaker on Biophilic Design and is an instructor on Executive Leadership, Business & Finance, Project Management and the Operations & Maintenance of Facilities.

Create Your Own Success

Tue, 28 Aug 2018 03:41:00 GMT

If you want to succeed in FM, you can’t just wait for good things to happen IFMA’s World Workplace ® prepares you for success with a full program of educational sessions , special keynote and plenary speakers , product and service demonstrations, facility tours , network-building activities and much, much more.

Why should you and your entire facility team join fellow facility professionals in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA, this Oct. 3-5?

To protect your facility. Is your team prepared for an emergency? For a cyberattack? You don’t get a second chance in a real crisis. Gain expert, in-depth training and be truly prepared for anything.

Gear up. Tap in. Move forward. Create your own success at World Workplace.

FM Spotlight - Joel F. Orton, FMP, CFM, AIA

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 06:28:00 GMT

Joel F. Orton, FMP, CFM, AIA Director, Strategic Real Estate Projects Sanofi

NJ IFMA Member since November 1993

Share something that no one knows about you.

You wouldn’t know it to look at me but I love to run. I’ve been running for over 20 years and find it to be a great stress reliever. In 1999, I got involved with the Leukemia Society’s Team-in-Training which combines fundraising for a very worthy cause with training to run a marathon. During a 2-1/2 year span, I completed five marathons.

How did you get into the Facilities field?

Like many facility managers, my path was not a direct one. I graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in architecture. Following graduation, I worked six years for an architectural firm and obtained my professional license. One of the firm’s major clients was Marion Laboratories, a Kansas City-based pharmaceutical company, and for the last two years with the firm most of my time was spent working with that client. Marion was growing rapidly and needed someone in-house to guide their facility planning activities. I saw the opportunity to join a company where I would be more closely involved in the strategic decision making process for projects and made the switch. Through various mergers and acquisitions, I have been with the company ever since.

Over the years, my responsibilities have focused primarily on facility planning, project management and real estate. Being on the end user’s side of projects I came to appreciate the importance of understanding the operational issues associated with a facility once the project is turned over for occupancy. I have found IFMA to be a tremendous resource in staying apprised of the issues faced by facility managers.

Although it’s not the career I envisioned when graduating college, I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenges and opportunities it has provided.

Tell us about a favorite project.

One of my favorite projects and one I’m quite proud of because of the relationships resulting from it, involved our Canadian headquarters in Laval, QC – just north of Montreal. Sanofi had divested its dermatology businesss, which included the sale of the site where the HQ was located, and the remaining Sanofi operations had to move. As project executive I was involved from site selection through lease negotiations, design, construction and move-in. To see the project through from beginning to end was a great opportunity and also presented many challenges.

To begin with, the core project team was US-based and we had to establish a trusting relationship with our Canadian colleagues and demonstrate we had the expertise to lead the project. In addition, the company was rolling out new workplace standards, significantly reducing private offices with a preference for open workspace complemented by a variety of shared, enclosed spaces. Coming from a work environment with 50% private offices, this represented a huge change. A third major challenge was the schedule the divestment agreement required that we vacate the site by the end of February 2013. Options for existing office space in the local market were very limited and so the decision was taken to have a developer construct a new building. Ground was broken in June 2012, giving us eight months for core and shell construction, interior fit-out and move-in with the final four months occurring during the Canadian winter.

With great support from the local leadership and working with a project team of talented and dedicated individuals, we were able to deliver the project on time and underbudget. More importantly, the occupants continue to be very happy with their new work environment and it has served as a model for subsequent projects.

Tell us about a challenge or obstacle that you face in the Facilities world.

Dealing with change is one of my biggest challenges and I suspect I’m not alone. The world is constantly changing and we need to be agile in responding to the changes. However, the natural instinct is to resist change, particularly if we feel the change is outside of our control.

As an FM, there are new initiatives – whether changes in business processes or changes to the work environment – that we have to roll out to our customers. Working with them to understand and embrace these changes requires a skill set for which most of us were not trained. It requires that we not only explain the rationale behind the change but also understand the emotions they are experiencing in considering the change.

What learning experience would you pass onto future FMs?

Customer service is at the heart of successful facility management. To be effective, an FM needs to have good people skills. In addition, you need to be familiar with a wide range of issues impacting facilities. No one is an expert in everything and so, to be successful, you have to collaborate with subject matter experts and develop strong teams.

In both of these areas, it’s all about working with people and developing relationships built on trust. One of my favorite books is The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey. He writes about how trust is based on character and competency, is developed over time, and can improve performance on both a personal level as well as that of the business. I highly recommend the book.