Facility Voices

In this episode from our "Women in Facilities" series, Maria O'Callaghan-Cassidy, Senior Associate Vice President of Campus Operations at University of Richmond, discusses the evolving landscape of facilities management. She emphasizes the importance of flexibility and ongoing education amid labor shortages and job mobility. Maria recommends pursuing certifications like CFM and FMP, and getting involved in organizations such as IFMA to enhance career growth.

She encourages women to seek mentorship, embrace feedback, and actively drive their careers. Maria highlights the significance of building relationships within the industry and taking charge of one’s professional journey, capturing the excitement and challenges in facilities management today and showcasing the potential for meaningful careers in the field.

Tune in to hear more insights from Maria and celebrate the strides women are making in facilities management.

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Maria O’Callaghan-Cassidy CFM, SFP, an accomplished and strategic leader with 20+ years of operations, facilities and planning experience, is a frequent guest speaker for operational innovation and sustainability. She is the Senior AVP of Campus Operations at the University of Richmond where she oversees facilities planning, design and construction, dining and business services.  She is the current chair of Woman in Facilities Management (WIFM  and is the vice chair of the International Facilities Management Association Academic Facilities Council (IFMA AFC).  She also serves as the vice president  of the local IFMA RVA chapter, fostering professional development.

Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page

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The views and opinions expressed by third-party guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of ARC Facilities and ARC Document Solutions. We provide a platform for diverse perspectives and discussions and ARC Facilities/ARC Document Solutions assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content provided by our third-party guests.

In this episode of Facility Voices, we’re joined by Tom Polansky, Vice President for Operations and Facilities at The Huntington. Tom shares his unique career path, starting as an architect and eventually discovering his passion for managing teams and aligning campus visions with built environments. He talks about the complexities of overseeing a diverse site like The Huntington, which includes a world-class library, art museum, and botanical gardens. Tom explains the challenges of managing both old and new systems across the 207-acre campus, with a focus on the critical role of environmental controls in preserving priceless collections. He highlights how his team carefully monitors and adjusts these systems to protect rare artifacts, ensuring optimal conditions for each unique space. Tom also discusses the importance of sustainability efforts on campus and how they integrate modern technology with historic preservation. His insights provide a valuable look into the delicate balance required to manage such a culturally and historically rich facility.

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Tom Polansky is Vice President for Operations and Facilities at the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Library, where he leads master planning, operational sustainability, and campus construction. Tom holds a master’s degree in architecture from the University of Virginia. He has been with The Huntington since 2021 after eight years in a similar position at Occidental College. Tom serves on the boards of the South Pasadena Preservation Foundation and the South Pasadena Senior Center. He’s been fortunate to be able to support institutions with firm commitments to preserving their architectural heritage in the service of their missions.

Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page

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The views and opinions expressed by third-party guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of ARC Facilities and ARC Document Solutions. We provide a platform for diverse perspectives and discussions and ARC Facilities/ARC Document Solutions assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content provided by our third-party guests.

In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask sits down with Taj Sharma, founder and CEO of Convergence, to discuss the evolving challenges and opportunities in the facilities management industry. Taj, with over 35 years of experience operating facilities for companies like Amazon, Google, and Facebook, shares his insights on how to empower teams in the field. He highlights the importance of skilled professionals, the impact of evolving technology, and how strategic planning is key to addressing the current labor shortage in the industry. Taj also touches on the significant shifts in the labor market, especially in skilled trades, post-pandemic. Taj and David discuss the challenges organizations face in replacing long-term employees who have either retired or moved on to new opportunities, and the need for strategic planning to capture and retain institutional knowledge. Don't miss this engaging conversation on the future of facilities and the critical role of both technology and people in shaping it.

Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page

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The views and opinions expressed by third-party guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of ARC Facilities and ARC Document Solutions. We provide a platform for diverse perspectives and discussions and ARC Facilities/ARC Document Solutions assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content provided by our third-party guests.

In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask welcomes Julie Brown, Vice President of Industries and Customer Value at Johnson Controls, as part of the Women in Facilities series, where she shares insights into her dynamic role supporting field operations and shaping the company's strategic direction through customer feedback.

Julie takes us through the rich history of Johnson Controls, highlighting its 140-year legacy as a leader in building systems and innovation. She discusses her career journey, emphasizing the importance of understanding market trends and implementing strategies that align with customer needs. Julie also explores the evolving challenges in the facilities industry, particularly the importance of attracting diverse talent, including women, to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals.

This episode offers a unique perspective into the complexities of facilities management, the innovative approaches at Johnson Controls, and the critical role of mission-driven work in healthcare and beyond. Julie’s insights are invaluable for anyone looking to understand the future of the industry and the importance of diversity in shaping its direction.

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Julie Brown, a dedicated leader at Johnson Controls, is deeply rooted in the daily lives of her customers, blending a worldly perspective with hands-on experience. With a background influenced by her family's trade heritage, Julie spends her days enhancing the support provided by field service technicians. She thrives on solving real-world problems, advocating for innovative building technologies, and mentoring the next generation in the industry. Passionate about empowering women and promoting sustainability, Julie is inspired by business leaders like Satya Nadella and Mary Slagle Zappone. Outside of work, she enjoys wilderness canoeing, international travel, and reading. 

Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page

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The views and opinions expressed by third-party guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of ARC Facilities and ARC Document Solutions. We provide a platform for diverse perspectives and discussions and ARC Facilities/ARC Document Solutions assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content provided by our third-party guests.

In this episode of Facility Voices Dean Stanberry, the Past-Chair of the Global Board of Directors at the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), shares his his evolution from IT guy to facility management leader, highlighting the "accidental profession" story that led him to oversee millions of square feet of administrative space and data centers. He explores the evolution of IFMA, the importance of professional credentials in facility management, and the growing focus on sustainability and decarbonization in the industry. Dean also discusses the challenges of adapting to climate change, the significance of lifelong learning in facility management, and the critical role of leadership in driving energy efficiency. Tune in to hear Dean's insights on the future of facility management, the impact of AI and technology on the industry, and the ongoing efforts to address skilled trade shortages.

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Dean has more than 20 years of broad-based experience in facility management, real estate portfolio management, process and quality improvement, procurement, workplace services, program and project management, space and occupancy planning, sustainability, information systems implementation, and critical environment operations.

He is an active industry advocate, serving on the IFMA Foundation Board of Trustees, is past chair of the Sustainability Community, and Government Affairs Committee. Dean is currently Chair of IFMA’s Global Board of Directors.

Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page

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The views and opinions expressed by third-party guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of ARC Facilities and ARC Document Solutions. We provide a platform for diverse perspectives and discussions and ARC Facilities/ARC Document Solutions assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content provided by our third-party guests.

In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask is joined by Fletcher Coffman, Senior Director of Operations at the Washington Commanders. Fletcher shares insights into his role, overseeing engineering, facilities, logistics, and more within the organization. They discuss the Commanders' recent transition to a new ownership group and the exciting improvements in store for the team. Fletcher highlights the importance of enhancing the fan experience and community impact as the team prepares for the future.

Fletcher also talks about the unique challenges of managing a stadium that hosts a wide variety of events, from NFL games to major concerts, and the meticulous planning involved in ensuring every event runs smoothly. Whether it's coordinating with local law enforcement or preparing for a back-to-back concert weekend, Fletcher's team is always working to improve the experience for event atendees. 

Tune in to learn more about the behind-the-scenes efforts that keep a major sports venue running and the future plans for the Washington Commanders.

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Fletcher Coffman has an extensive background in operations and facilities management. With experience at various organizations such as Washington Commanders, The George Washington University, City of Round Rock, and West Virginia University Student Recreation Center, Fletcher has held roles such as Senior Director of Operations, Director of Athletics Facilities, and Director of Operations. Fletcher holds a Master of Science in Sport Administration/Management from West Virginia University and a Bachelor of Arts in Sport Administration/Management from Bethany College.

Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page

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The views and opinions expressed by third-party guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of ARC Facilities and ARC Document Solutions. We provide a platform for diverse perspectives and discussions and ARC Facilities/ARC Document Solutions assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content provided by our third-party guests.

Scott Ployer, President & CEO of the National Property Management Strategies Group, concludes our "Start Now" series with the third and final part. In this episode, Scott focuses on the crucial aspect of training for facilities teams.

He underscores the importance of comprehensive training in emergency management, highlighting common challenges organizations face and detailing the essential OSHA-mandated safety training requirements. Scott discusses the significance of meticulous documentation and effective risk assessments, offering practical advice on prioritizing training based on specific risks and past incidents.

Additionally, Scott delves into the growing emphasis on mental health in the workplace, providing insights into how companies can better support their employees' well-being. Covering topics from OSHA compliance to mindfulness in the workplace, this episode offers invaluable guidance for facility managers aiming to enhance their emergency preparedness and support their teams.

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Scott Ployer is a seasoned real estate and property management executive with 36 years of experience in managing residential, commercial, industrial, office, and government properties. He has a proven track record of implementing cost-saving initiatives and serving in high-responsibility roles, including as a Receiver’s Administrator for the U.S. Bankruptcy Court and federal banks. Ployer holds numerous industry-specific certifications and licenses, showcasing his extensive expertise and commitment to excellence.

Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page

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The views and opinions expressed by third-party guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of ARC Facilities and ARC Document Solutions. We provide a platform for diverse perspectives and discussions and ARC Facilities/ARC Document Solutions assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content provided by our third-party guests.

In today’s episode David sits down with the two winners of the 2024 Facilithon Competition: Anderson Reynolds, the first-place national finalist in the high school division, and Toby Styron, the first-place national finalist in the post-secondary division.

Anderson, fresh out of high school, shares how his diverse educational experiences, including participation in SkillsUSA and various construction programs, led him to excel in Facilithon. Toby, currently enrolled in the electromechanical technology course at Texas State Technical College, talks about how his early work experiences and the encouragement from his instructors steered him towards facilities management.

In the Facilithon Competition, participants from across the country are challenged to respond to real-world facilities management scenarios. Anderson and Toby discuss their experiences tackling problems ranging from financial planning for amusement parks to emergency responses in hospital settings. They highlight the importance of quick thinking, comprehensive knowledge, and the support of mentors in navigating these challenges.

Join us as we discuss the valuable lessons learned from these experiences, the excitement of competing at the national level, and how these young leaders plan to apply their skills in their future careers. Whether it's managing a hospital's fire sprinkler system or finding innovative solutions for an amusement park, Anderson and Toby's stories demonstrate the diverse and dynamic world of facilities management.

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Anderson Reynolds graduated from high school in the Denver Metro area in the spring of 2024. Throughout high school he participated in leadership, career exploration, and CTE programs, including a construction management program and later SkillsUSA. Through these programs he has acquired certifications in construction safety and sustainability, while representing his community as the state secretary for SkillsUSA Colorado from 2023-2024, where he attended two SkillsUSA national conferences as a competitor. At the 2024 national conference, he participated in Facilithon, where he took gold in the high school division.

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Toby Styron Jr. from Roscoe, West Texas, began working at 12 at Day Sign Co. in Abilene, learning business and leadership under Jake Day's mentorship. His diverse career includes roles as a foreman, welder, plumber, jailer, and contractor. The first in his family to graduate high school and college, he earned degrees from Texas State Technical College Sweetwater and Texas Tech University. Initially pursuing a medical career, Toby found his passion in the trades, mastering welding. With experiences across the country, he is proud of his achievements and dedicated to inspiring others to strive for their best. 

Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page

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The views and opinions expressed by third-party guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of ARC Facilities and ARC Document Solutions. We provide a platform for diverse perspectives and discussions and ARC Facilities/ARC Document Solutions assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content provided by our third-party guests.

In part two of our series, "Start Now: A Guide to Building or Enhancing Your Emergency Management Program," Scott Ployer, President and CEO of National Property Management Strategies Group, explores the vital role of insurance in facilities management.

With insurance premiums skyrocketing, Scott offers strategies to help companies mitigate these costs by fostering a safety-first culture and conducting thorough risk assessments. He highlights the importance of regularly updating standard operating procedures and leveraging resources from insurance carriers to minimize claims and enhance safety programs.

Scott’s insights offer actionable advice to help you stay ahead of potential risks and ensure your organization is ready for any crisis.  Discover how climate change impacts insurance, the benefits of voluntary risk assessments, and best practices for updating company policies annually. 

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Scott Ployer is a seasoned real estate and property management executive with 36 years of experience in managing residential, commercial, industrial, office, and government properties. He has a proven track record of implementing cost-saving initiatives and serving in high-responsibility roles, including as a Receiver’s Administrator for the U.S. Bankruptcy Court and federal banks. Ployer holds numerous industry-specific certifications and licenses, showcasing his extensive expertise and commitment to excellence.

Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page

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The views and opinions expressed by third-party guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of ARC Facilities and ARC Document Solutions. We provide a platform for diverse perspectives and discussions and ARC Facilities/ARC Document Solutions assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content provided by our third-party guests.

In this episode, we chat with Sean Tracy, the Director of Facilities at AdventHealth Castle Rock. With 20 years in healthcare facilities management, Sean takes us through his career journey, from trade school to spearheading sustainability efforts. He explains why trade schools are so valuable and how Facility Condition Assessments (FCA) help in planning for the future.

Sean shares the innovative measures he's implementing to reduce energy use, including solar and wind energy. He also describes how grants can support sustainability projects and the benefits of adopting electric vehicles for energy efficiency. With a forward-looking vision for the industry, Sean emphasizes the importance of proactive sustainability practices and the crucial role of facilities teams. 

Tune in for an engaging look at the future of healthcare facilities management and sustainability.

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Sean Tracy has 20 years’ experience in healthcare facilities management and is currently the facilities director at Castle Rock Adventist Hospital. Sean holds a bachelor’s in healthcare administrations from Colorado State University and is currently finishing his master’s degree. Sean is also a Certified Healthcare Facilities Manager through the American Society of Healthcare and serves as this year’s president for the Colorado Association of Healthcare Engineers and Directors. He is passionate about providing a facility that provides a high level of care while increasing sustainability.   

Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page

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The views and opinions expressed by third-party guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of ARC Facilities and ARC Document Solutions. We provide a platform for diverse perspectives and discussions and ARC Facilities/ARC Document Solutions assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content provided by our third-party guests.