In this episode, Rami Abdelhadi, Executive Director of Facilities Operations at Stanford University, discusses the challenges and strategies for talent acquisition and retention in the facilities management industry. He highlights the importance of apprenticeship programs and cross-training to build a strong pipeline of skilled professionals. Rami also emphasizes the role of facilities in supporting education and research, and the need for soft skills in career progression. TakeawaysAppr...
Mar 07, 2024•22 min
On this episode of the Modern Facilities Management Podcast, Griffin interviews Barton Drake, Market Sector Leader for HED. Drake shares his vision for integrating a community's history with its future through architecture, and focuses on creating designs that are practical, cost-effective, and unite communities. His philosophy highlights the role of architecture in promoting sustainable development and respecting both tradition and the environment. Drake's experience and approach demonstrate...
Feb 22, 2024•27 min
SummaryOn this episode, Griffin interviews Christopher Cioffi, the Commercial Programs Manager at IBHS (Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety), about preparing for severe weather and mitigating damage to properties. Christopher emphasizes the need for routine maintenance, particularly on roofs, windows, and walls, to ensure they are in good condition. He also provides guidance on actions to take after a storm, including documenting damage and communicating with insurance compa...
Feb 15, 2024•22 min
On this episode, Griffin sits down with Chris Kaiser, the Director of Properties for the Arthur M. Blank Family Office. With a rich background spanning over two decades, Chris brings a wealth of experience from his roles as an Estate Manager, Personal Assistant, and his extensive involvement in the construction field. His military background, coupled with hands-on experience as a service technician and handyman, has equipped him with unparalleled skills in residential and commercial construct...
Feb 08, 2024•27 min
Jim Zirbel, Launch Leader at Couillard Solar Foundation, joins the show for his 3rd interview. On this episode, we dive into the transformative world of solar energy. Recently honored with the U.S. Department of Energy Solar X Prize, the Couillard Soalr Foundation is at the forefront of advancing solar energy use and technology.We explore the incentives and financial benefits that make solar energy an increasingly attractive option for many. From tax credits to reduced energy costs, we discus...
Feb 01, 2024•28 min
This week we're revisiting one of my favorite interviews from 2023. Dave Bishop shares his fascinating journey from a law enforcement career to one in facilities management.A key focus of the conversation is the deployment of work order systems. Dave dives into best practices for successful implementation, emphasizing the importance of thorough training and the role of internal power users as mentors to their colleagues. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the world of work order...
Jan 18, 2024•33 min
On this episode of The Modern Facilities Management Podcast, Griffin interviews Matt Aston, the president of GPRS. Matt shares his story of growing GPRS from a one-person startup to nearly 800 employees across 50+ cities. Matt has 20+ years of experience in utility locating and concrete scanning, giving him an insider perspective on the industry, how it has developed, and how it will continue to innovate.TakeawaysGround penetrating radar (GPR) is a highly accurate technology used in facilitie...
Jan 04, 2024•27 min
David Miller, a seasoned expert with over 15 years of experience in operations management within commercial real estate and construction, joins our show to delve into the intricacies of budgeting in Facilities Management. On this episode, we cover a range of topics, including the impact of facilities on business operations, the unique budgeting needs across different industries, and the fundamental principles of effective budget management in FM.Key Takeaways:Strategic Role of FM: Facili...
Dec 14, 2023•21 min
On this episode, we're joined by Dan Clapper from Interplay Learning. We delve into how their technology is leveraging VR to revolutionize training in facilities management. Dan highlights the significance of ongoing and cross-training in enhancing workforce skills, especially in the context of the Great Resignation. This conversation sheds light on the future of facilities management and how embracing continuous learning can mitigate the impact of widespread workforce changes. Inte...
Dec 07, 2023•24 min
On this episode, we're joined by Ben Montgomery, President of Premium Parking, to discuss the innovative world of free flow parking. Ben introduces us to the evolving parking industry and explains how technology plays a crucial role in this new model. He highlights the benefits of free flow parking, including increased revenue, enhanced customer experience, and operational cost savings due to reduced maintenance needs. Additionally, we tackle the perceived challenges of implementing fre...
Nov 30, 2023•31 min
John Powers, Founder and CEO of Extensible Energy, is this weeks guest. John is an industry expert with over three decades of experience working in utilities and energy management. He's authored over 100 papers and reports on energy efficiency, demand response, resource planning, load forecasting, renewable energy, and more. If you're interested in decrypting the code behind your utilities bill, John is the expert to listen to.On this episode, we discuss:Occupancy behaviors ...
Nov 16, 2023•24 min
Today we are joined by Lonnie Pilgrim, the Director of Buildings and Maintenance at Fort McMurray Public School District. On this episode, we delve into Lonnie's experience in crisis management, specifically covering how he handled significant flooding in 2020. Pilgrim shares the critical first steps he took to mitigate the damage, strategies he employed to manage and support his staff during the challenging period, and the key lessons he learned from the ordeal. Whether you're...
Nov 09, 2023•25 min
In this episode, we sit down with Perry Shimanoff, a seasoned expert with 35 years of experience in educational and government facilities maintenance. Perry is a Certified Master Custodial Trainer with ISSA’s Cleaning Management Institute (CMI). He is the founder and president of MC2 Management and Communication Consultants and has been involved in training both managers and frontline cleaning staff for more than 40 years. Shimanoff is a member of the Indoor Health Council (IHC), the Internat...
Nov 02, 2023•25 min
Abby Massey joins the show as this weeks guest to talk about tax incentives in Facilities Management. Abby's journey from a Building Engineer to Director of Tax Incentives at Calvetti Ferguson provides a unique perspective on the transformative power of tax incentives in the world of facilities management.Join us as Abby shares insights into two key incentives: Section 179D - Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings Deduction and Section 48 - Investment Tax Credit for Renewable Energy. Disc...
Oct 26, 2023•18 min
Martin Luckcuck, President and CIO of SMp3 Maintenance, joins the show as this weeks guest. Martin's extensive career in supermarket facilities management has made him an expert in several key areas, including:Embracing New TechnologiesMeasuring and Delivering Value in Maintenance DepartmentsEffective Vendor ManagementProviding Top-Notch Support to TechniciansEnjoy! Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!
Oct 19, 2023•24 min
In the latest episode of The Modern Facilities Management podcast, we were joined by Sean Borris, President of Gemini Pipeline Rehabilitation Solutions. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Sean brings a wealth of knowledge in pipeline rehabilitation, having managed projects in diverse sectors such as commercial, municipal, and oil & gas.On this episode, we discuss:Common issues that lead to the need for pipeline rehabilitation, such as corrosion and wear.Insights on preventa...
Oct 12, 2023•24 min
In this episode, we interview Kayla Gottschalk, Co-Founder of Collective Workplace and IFMA Young Professionals Chair of Americas. Kayla holds IFMA SFP and IFMA FMG certifications, adding credence to her expertise in the field. Collective is a community that consolidates valuable resources like podcasts, videos, and tools for professionals in facilities management and the broader employee experience sector. Listen in as Kayla discusses the importance of cross-specialty collabo...
Oct 05, 2023•24 min
On this episode, we discuss the role of indoor mapping in facilities management with Morten Brøgger, CEO of MapsPeople. Morten advocates for the use of emerging technologies like indoor mapping to improve building security and safety. Topics covered include: Threat assessmentAsset mapping beyond just a list of assetsAI-driven mapsThe value of a digital twin. Enjoy! Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!
Sep 21, 2023•20 min
This weeks guest is Melissa Kaan, VP of Business Development at Summit Facility Solutions. Melissa has spent over a decade working in client support for facilities services providers across multiple industries.On this episode, Melissa talks about the importance of choosing the right partner when outsourcing, and what steps you should take to properly evaluate vendors.Enjoy! Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!
Sep 14, 2023•26 min
On this episode of The Modern Facilities Management podcast, we delve into the complexities and opportunities of modern materials technology with Nitin Govila from Serge Ferrari. The benefits and challenges of using composite materials in architecture and design, particularly in relation to sustainability and environmental impact.The shift in focus on sustainability over the yearsGreen building practices The role of government officials and policymakers involved in environmental ini...
Sep 07, 2023•26 min
In the latest episode of the Modern Facilities Management podcast, Dr. Roslyn Artis, President of Benedict College, discusses the collaborative campus modernization project with MD Energy Advisors and Siemens. The project, initiated in December 2021, focuses on three core areas: Improving indoor air qualitySupporting energy-efficient operationsSetting up the campus to reduce ongoing energy and maintenance costsThese changes aim to create a more sustainable and cost-effective environ...
Aug 28, 2023•21 min
In December 2021, Benedict College, Siemens, and MD Energy Advisors initiated a collaborative effort to modernize campus facilities. The modernization program included the development of comprehensive infrastructure improvements campus-wide including:Improving indoor air qualityEnhancing comfort with a focus on the dormitoriesSupporting energy efficient and sustainable operationsReducing ongoing energy, operations, and maintenance costsOn this episode, Paul Clary (MD Energy Advisors) and Mich...
Aug 17, 2023•32 min
On this episode we welcome back Sissi Liu for her second appearance on the show (make sure to check out her previous interview on episode #74). This time, Sissi delves into the critical updates surrounding ASHRAE Standard 241, a vital guideline for building professionals. Join us as we explore the newly updated requirements, cutting-edge air cleaning technology, and strategic building readiness plans. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to facilities management, Sissi's ex...
Aug 08, 2023•22 min
In this episode of the Modern Facilities Management Podcast, we welcome expert Bernard Newman to discuss the pressing issue of mail-related threats. Newman explores recent cases, demonstrating the ongoing relevance of such threats in today's world. He shares proactive strategies for threat prevention, emphasizing staff training and strong mail handling procedures. Finally, Newman introduces us to the latest technologies in threat detection, from x-ray scanners to biological threat screening t...
Jul 20, 2023•23 min
Shari Cedar, Owner and VP of AK Building Services, joins the show. Shari started her career in Entertainment, but found herself diving head first into the world of Facilities Management as she helped her husband run the business.On this episode, Shari talks about the transformation of janitorial services from background roles to becoming integral, trusted partners in the post-COVID era.As COVID-19 redefined our perceptions, Cedar discusses how the pandemic has elevated the appreciation for th...
Jul 12, 2023•22 min
In this episode of the Modern Facilities Management Podcast, host Griffin Hamilton interviews Mark Mears, a renowned author, keynote speaker, and visionary business leader. Mark has driven innovation and profitable growth among world-class, high-profile brands such as PepsiCo/Pizza Hut, McDonald’s, Frito-Lay, JCPenney, NBCUniversal, and The Cheesecake Factory.Today, Mark serves as Chief Growth Officer for LEAF Growth Ventures, LLC—a consulting firm helping individuals, teams, and organization...
Jun 29, 2023•27 min
This weeks guest is Adam Thordarson, Director of Facilities Management at Bouldering Project. Adam has spent the last 5+ years building the facilities management department from the ground up.On this episode, we explore the significance of seeking help and advice, passing on tribal knowledge, empowering teams, fostering collaboration, and engaging with the FM community. Enjoy!Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!
Jun 22, 2023•35 min
On this episode, Amin Najjar, the President and CEO of Veolia NA Facilities and Building Services, joins the show. Amin discusses the topic of decarbonization and how Veolia is helping buildings and institutions transition to a low-carbon future.Decarbonization can be achieved through a three-fold approach, which Amin breaks down into three key strategies:Reduce: Retrofitting existing buildings to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.Produce: Integrating green energy so...
Jun 01, 2023•23 min
In this episode of The Modern Facilities Management Podcast, we're joined by Tate Putnam from Reedy Rides. Tate shares his fascinating journey into the world of facilities management, giving us an inside look into his current work and how he effectively manages mobile assets. With his rich background in FM technologies, Tate discusses their role in his work, highlighting both the similarities and differences in managing these unique assets. Plus, you won't want to miss his insights on th...
May 25, 2023•28 min
On this episode, Griffin sits down with Jeff Twardzik, Founder of QModo AI, to explore the fascinating ways in which artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the field of facilities management. Here are the key highlights of their conversation:Harnessing AI to unlock and utilize tribal knowledge, the valuable informal expertise passed down among employees.Streamlining data management through AI-powered knowledge capture and organization tools, ensuring easy access to vital information for f...
May 11, 2023•23 min
