Facility Rockstars

Today, we're excited to introduce Douglas Stokken, the Director of Business Development & Projects at SPACE Buildings Corporation. Established in 1967, SPACE Buildings is a top provider of pre-engineered metal building systems in New England, specializing in Commercial and Industrial projects. They offer comprehensive services from design to maintenance, with expertise in sectors like warehousing, logistics, aviation, and technology. What distinguishes SPACE Buildings is their focus on vertical integration and commitment to client satisfaction.

With his extensive experience in project management, business development, and facilities management, Doug shares his journey from an entry position to a leadership role within his company, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and effective networking. 

He discusses the significance of listening for leadership, the value of taking on challenging projects to foster growth, and how building strong networks and making strategic introductions can have a lasting impact on business success. Doug also touches on his company's specialization in metal buildings, how this niche market evolved from protecting oil rigs to becoming a versatile construction solution, and the benefits it offers to various industries. 

Moreover, Doug delves into his personal philosophy of helping others and how it informs his professional approach, enhancing client relationships and creating opportunities for mentorship and collaboration.

Takeaways:

• Adopting a mindset of perpetual learning and adaptability is crucial. Every project and collaboration offers a unique scenario and learning opportunity. Embrace these experiences to expand your knowledge and skill set.
• Effective delegation within your facilities team can enhance efficiency and clarity. Assign responsibilities based on skills and timelines. This structured approach helps ensure that everyone knows their roles, improving project execution.
• Listening is foundational to understanding the needs of your team and clients. Listening to all stakeholders, from iron workers to engineers, not only accelerates problem-solving but also fosters a collaborative work environment.
• Building a plan with contributions from every team member can lead to more innovative and comprehensive solutions. Encourage an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of their position, feels valued and heard. This approach can significantly impact your team's effectiveness.
• Regularly auditing and reviewing processes, such as safety protocols and maintenance schedules, is a best practice. This systematic review ensures that your facility's operations are up-to-date, minimizing risks and optimizing performance.
• Building a broad network can be invaluable, as it allows for easier problem-solving through collaboration. Networking and being open to helping others, even beyond business interests not only solves problems but also builds lasting relationships.

Quotes of the Show:

• “No matter where you sit within the hierarchy of any company, everybody's got to come together. That's how you get velocity.” - Douglas Stokken
• “Every time you think you've got it solved, you haven't. You always have something left to learn or a nuance of that facet. Always have to be open, always have to be learning.” - Douglas Stokken
• “We grind on it every day. We hustle on it every day. We make it happen.” - Douglas Stokken
• “We treat others how we want to be treated and we get a lot of work because we employ those principles.” - Douglas Stokken
• “Take on something you might not typically do as long as it meets the company's vision and purposes. Take on the hard tasks and do them because that's going to help you grow and evolve.” - Douglas Stokken
• “Take a challenge, go for it, and really apply what you and your company can do.” - Douglas Stokken
• “We go above and beyond and give that absolute highest level of client care.” - Douglas Stokken
• “Experience is one of the greatest teachers.” - Douglas Stokken

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-stokken-965b476 
• Website: https://spacebldgs.com 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/MiIP7l-7pKU 

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

Our special guest today is Michael Zechello, the Manager of Facilities Engineering at MathWorks. With nearly three decades in facility management, Zechello shares his journey from a construction superintendent to a key player in maintaining the infrastructure of critical facilities. 

He emphasizes the importance of hiring the right staff and creating a supportive team environment. Zechello discusses MathWorks' comprehensive hiring process, the value of a 'buddy system' for new hires, and the company's unique offerings, including free meals and state-of-the-art gym facilities, which contribute to a positive work culture. Challenges like finding qualified HVAC technicians are also addressed. 

Moreover, Zechello highlights the significance of vendor relationships through quarterly business reviews, offering insights into the collaborative efforts that ensure facility excellence. This episode not only explores best practices in facility management but also underscores the importance of team dynamics and vendor partnerships in creating a successful operational environment.

Takeaways:

• Ensuring you have a competent and trustworthy team is crucial. Invest time in hiring processes that include thorough background checks and interviews. A good team can significantly enhance facility operations and lead to smoother management.
• Emphasize a rigorous hiring process that may include phone screenings, comprehensive day-long interviews, and interactions with various team members. This ensures candidates are not only technically fit but also align well with the company culture.
• To facilitate smoother integration and foster a supportive work environment, pair new employees with experienced staff. This can help newcomers navigate the company culture and systems more effectively while promoting camaraderie.
• Adopting a high standard, akin to a five-star hotel, for the cleanliness and maintenance of your facilities can create a positive impression on clients and a pleasant work environment for employees. Regular maintenance and refresh projects are key.
• Utilize professional networks like LinkedIn to find potential candidates. This platform can broaden your reach and help you connect with individuals who possess the specific skills and experience your facility management team needs.
• Offer amenities that support a healthy lifestyle, such as providing healthy food options and access to a fitness center. This not only benefits the physical well-being of your staff but also contributes to a positive and productive work environment.
• Establishing and maintaining professional relationships can be incredibly beneficial. Whether it's through industry associations like IFMA or past work connections, networking can lead to fruitful partnerships, vendor recommendations, and recruitment opportunities.

Quote of the Show:

• “Our most important customer is our staff.” - Mike Zechello

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-zechello-8344a5bb 
• Website: https://www.mathworks.com 
• IFMA Boston (Website): https://ifmaboston.org 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/sL0PkocP4Wo

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

Today, we are thrilled to have Gabriel Budds, Construction Site Operations Manager at Fluor Corporation, as our esteemed guest. Gabriel shares valuable insights on the importance of nurturing strong relationships, fostering leadership skills, and maximizing project efficiency. He also delves into his approach to project management, effective communication, compliance, and safety within large facilities, highlighting the innovative strategies he utilizes to uphold operational excellence.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Gabriel also reveals the creative process behind his passion project, Budds Burner. This venture involves crafting custom hot sauces, offering a glimpse into his journey from cultivating ingredients to developing distinct flavors.

Takeaways:

• Building strong relationships within the facility is vital. Start with a friendly approach to get to know the people you work with. This foundation allows you to rely on others for input, support, and collaboration, making the work environment more conducive and effective. 
• Anticipate potential project roadblocks and constraints early on. Proactively thinking about what could go wrong and discussing potential issues with your team allows for smoother project execution and minimizes surprises. 
• Understand that while having a plan is crucial, being adaptable to changes is equally important. Facilities management often involves unexpected challenges, requiring a flexible approach to project planning and execution. 
• Regularly update and inform your team and stakeholders about ongoing and upcoming projects. Utilize various communication tools to ensure everyone is on the same page, reducing the chances of surprises and misunderstandings. 
• Maintain compliance with internal and external safety, quality, and construction standards. Prepare for audits by ensuring all documents, licenses, and inspections are in order, showcasing your commitment to safety and quality.
• Work in close collaboration with your team and other departments to complement each other’s efforts. Sharing insights and collaborating on problem-solving can improve overall project outcomes and compliance. 
• Stay open to learning and adopting new methodologies, such as lean construction, to improve your processes. Actively seeking improvement and being willing to adapt to new practices demonstrates leadership and dedication to excellence.

Quote of the Show:

• “You need to foster and rely on the relationships you have with the people inside the facility.” - Gabriel Budds

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielbudds 
• Fluor Corporation (Website): https://www.fluor.com 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ty4UeKR13Z0

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

Today, we're joined by John Gancarz, Facilities Manager at L3Harris Technologies, who brings a wealth of experience in manufacturing and facilities management to the table. John underscores the pivotal role of clear documentation, like a Statement of Work (SOW), in facilitating successful project coordination among management, clients, and maintenance teams.

John stresses the importance of ongoing communication, financial planning, and adherence to regulations, including local agency protocols and safety measures. He also reflects on the significance of consistency in building trust, leveraging experience, and embracing the lessons learned from setbacks.

Furthermore, John shares personal anecdotes about his transition from rural life to the realm of facilities management, shedding light on his mechanical prowess and love for snowmobiling. This episode offers invaluable insights into project management, contractor dealings, and upholding safety standards, showcasing John's adeptness at overcoming obstacles and attaining objectives within facility management.

Takeaways:

• Always draft a clear Statement of Work (SOW) for each project, defining the scope, objectives, and expectations. This document is crucial for ensuring mutual understanding and agreement between all parties involved, including customers and contractors. 
• Before initiating any project, organize a preliminary meeting with all solicited contractors. This fosters collaboration, brings up pertinent questions early, and ensures everyone is aligned on the project’s goals and requirements. 
• Use collaboration tools like Teams or SharePoint to centralize communication, share data, and keep project files accessible to all stakeholders. This aids in keeping everyone on the same page and streamlines project management. 
• Maintain open and clear communication with both internal teams and external partners. Regular updates and dialogue help in managing expectations and preempting potential challenges. 
• Ensure thorough and consistent documentation throughout the project lifecycle. Keep detailed records of project plans, changes, and progress reports. This practice is vital for tracking the project’s evolution and resolving disputes or confusion. 
• Implement a systematic approach to preventive maintenance. Regular checks and maintenance of equipment and facilities minimize the risk of unexpected breakdowns and ensure compliance with safety regulations. 
• Build trust with teams and partners through consistent and transparent practices. Trust is the foundation of successful collaboration and project execution. Demonstrating reliability in your processes and communication strengthens relationships and fosters a positive work environment.

Quote of the Show:

• “I can tell you wrong from right, but experience is your best teacher.” - John Gancarz

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-gancarz-44ba0747 
• L3Harris Technologies Website: https://www.l3harris.com 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/EzEAgK4cYXI

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

Our special guest today is Shane Verity, he’s a Plant Engineer at Albany International Corp. With over a decade of experience in facilities management, including pharmaceutical and aerospace manufacturing environments, Shane shares his journey, insights, and lessons learned in adapting to the unpredictable nature of facilities management. He emphasizes the importance of agility, adaptability, and the ability to pivot in response to changes, a mindset fostered from a young age through various influences, including his grandfather and a driver’s ed instructor. The discussion covers best practices for facility management, including the critical role of organization, robust file structuring, regular preventive maintenance, and the necessity of understanding and complying with regulatory requirements. Additionally, Shane highlights the value of continuous learning, leveraging technology, and the significance of communication strategies tailored to different audiences to ensure the smooth operation and management of facilities. Through anecdotes and examples, such as handling facility emergencies and the integration of new systems, this episode offers valuable lessons on problem-solving, efficiency, and data management for facility professionals seeking to excel in their roles.

Takeaways:

• Expect the unexpected in facility management and develop agility and adaptability to manage changes effectively. 
• Utilize divide and conquer strategies. When faced with multiple challenges, segment them into manageable tasks to tackle them efficiently. 
• Prioritize organization and data management. Implement robust file structuring and naming conventions to easily access historical data and manage facilities more effectively. 
• Understand your audience and tailor your communication accordingly to ensure clear and effective interaction across different departments. 
• Commit to continuous learning. Stay open to adopting new technologies and methodologies to improve processes and facility management practices.
• Ensure compliance through routine preventive maintenance (PM): Regular PMs are crucial for maintaining organization, cleanliness, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Develop a personal system for time management. Allocate specific times for uninterrupted work to maintain productivity and manage tasks efficiently.

Quote of the Show:

• “You have to be able to just take changes as they come and pivot where you stand.” - Shane Verity
• “We manage it. We take it in, divide it, and minimize it. What's the quickest, easiest thing that you can get done. What's the next quickest, easiest thing you can get done, get that out of the way and move forward.” - Shane Verity
• “You have to really know your audience and how to communicate with them.” - Shane Verity
• “There's not a one size fits all. There's always another way. There's always a way to get it done. Don't tell me I can't do something, tell me how I can do it.” - Shane Verity

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-verity-b2a1b020b 
• Website: https://www.albint.com 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/PrJGMFoZwYk

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

Our special guest today is Mike Albano, Manager of Facilities Technical Operations at EMD Serono. He’s a seasoned Facility Manager with over 20 years of experience in R&D Facility Management across multiple states for EMD Serono. Mike shares his philosophy of keeping things simple, the importance of clearly defining roles and responsibilities, and the efficacy of using group texts for communication among team members. Mike also discusses navigating challenges with contractors, the significance of appointing trustworthy 'spotters', and the benefits of regular meetings and cross-training. Throughout his career, Mike has witnessed the growth of facilities from 70,000 to over 500,000 square feet, contributing to the development of LEED Gold and WELL Platinum-certified buildings. He underscores the value of showing up, doing a good job, and maintaining a positive attitude for success in facility management. Mike also provides valuable insights into effective facility management strategies, teamwork, and continuous learning.

Takeaways:

• Avoid overcomplication in facility management. Focus on delivering clear, straightforward solutions and communications. Simplify complex processes into bullet points or steps that are easy to understand and follow. This approach is crucial, especially in meetings and presentations, to ensure that everyone involved can easily grasp the tasks and responsibilities.
• Make the best out of the resources and personnel you currently have. Not all facilities will have the luxury of a full-fledged team structure, so it’s essential to optimize the capabilities of existing contractors and staff effectively. Identifying and maximizing the strengths of your team can lead to successful facility management even with limited resources.
• Set up clear and direct communication channels and reporting lines through established contacts. This ensures that all parties, including contractors, understand their roles, responsibilities, and whom they report to, fostering accountability and streamlined operations.
• For immediate and broad communications, create a group text that includes key personnel across different departments and specialties. This facilitates quick information sharing, ensures timely responses to facility needs, and fosters a collaborative environment among diverse teams, including security, HVAC, and electrician services.
• Utilize personnel across departments as 'spotters' to observe and report on site issues. This includes leveraging security and janitorial staff who can provide critical on-the-ground insights, alerting to issues that might require immediate attention, thus enhancing the responsiveness and maintenance capacity of the facility management team.
• Encourage and facilitate cross-training among your team members to enhance versatility and response capabilities. This not only improves the skill set of your personnel but also ensures better coverage and efficiency in dealing with a range of maintenance and operational issues even in the absence of specialized staff.
• Success in facility management comes with showing up, doing a thorough job, and maintaining the right attitude. Commitment to quality work, openness to learning, and stepping out of comfort zones are critical for personal growth and the overall success of facility operations.

Quote of the Show:

• “It's not always about getting the headcount in the building, it's getting the right people in the building.” - Mike Albano

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-albano-0bb20aa 
• EMD Serono Website: https://www.emdserono.com/us-en 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/gdQY_Nnmn7U

Our special guest today is Dan O'Connell, the Associate Director of Facilities Operations at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals. With over 18 years of experience in facilities management, Dan shares invaluable insights into the importance of team dynamics, finding and nurturing the right talent, and the value of learning and growth in the facilities management domain. He emphasizes the significance of investing in people, enabling them to learn and perform beyond their traditional roles, and leading without formal authority to foster a cooperative and productive work environment. Dan's approach showcases a holistic view towards professional development, including personal growth aspects like financial literacy and life skills. Jay and Dan also touch upon communication strategies, preparedness for regulatory inspections, and prioritization and time management in a bustling, dynamic sector. Dan's personal journey from the Navy to leading facilities operations, alongside his commitment to his team's growth and success, highlights the depth of leadership and dedication required to excel in facilities management.

Takeaways:

• Your team is your core support system, and a well-functioning team can significantly influence the success of your operations. Invest time in training them and encouraging continuous personal and professional growth.
• It's crucial to understand that 'multitasking' doesn't mean juggling multiple tasks simultaneously. Rather, it's about having multiple projects moving in parallel that you can manage effectively.
• Providing your team with the right training can be challenging and time-consuming, but it's a worthwhile investment. Enhancing their skills and understanding will ultimately benefit the organization.
• Learn how to lead without authority. Leadership is not about having a high-ranking title, it's about earning the respect of your team and guiding them effectively towards your shared goals.
• Embrace continuous learning and growth. The industry is always evolving, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and developments is critical. You must be open to new ideas, learn from your experiences, and adapt accordingly.
• In a field such as facilities management, you need to stay on top of all the regulations and standards applicable to your work. Make sure you maintain all regulatory aspects and ensure you are in compliance.
• Time management is crucial for facility professionals. You have to filter the tasks at hand and distinguish between what's urgent and what's important. Prioritize your tasks accurately to manage your time effectively.

Quote of the Show:

• “Leading without authority teaches you how to really get the results you want without having to bang your fist and bang your chest” - Dan O'Connell

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dano495 
• Website: https://www.alnylam.com 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/wHXG9ns-IY8

Our special guest today is Eric D'Orio, the CEO of Hansen Aerospace and Managing Director of Niche Industrials at Phenna Group Holdings. Eric shares his experiences in the aerospace industry, providing insight into his biggest lessons learned as a business leader. He emphasizes the importance of preventative maintenance and stringent compliance standards in their operations. The discussion also highlights Eric's management style of empowering his team, the key trends in their industry, and how COVID-19 impacted their hiring and business growth. Furthermore, Eric talks about his role in the M&A division, shedding light on how his company manages audits and his advice for other professionals in his industry.

Takeaways:

• Surround yourself with the right people: Having the right team is key to the growth of the business.
• Empower the management team: Delegating and entrusting your team with responsibilities can foster more effective management of the company. 
• Maintain a constant readiness for audits: Being prepared for audits at all times is critical to pass the tests and maintain industry certifications.
• Adopt a light touch approach in M&A: Giving the acquired companies some autonomy can help in maintaining their operational effectiveness.
• Put in place robust inspection processes: Having thorough inspection processes can ensure compliance with various regulations and standards.
• Be proactive in growing the company: As seen in the rapid global expansion of Eric's companies, taking calculated risks and investing back into the company is crucial for growth.
• Make good use of resources: Utilizing available resources to the fullest can help in managing production efficiently and ensuring business continuity.

Quote of the Show:

• “Don't overthink things, have the right people around you, and good things will happen.” - Eric D'Orio

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-d-orio-609b1a144 
• Hansen Aerospace (Website): https://www.hansen1909.com 
• Phenna Group (Website): https://phennagroup.com 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/2pEmcGpinbs