Host Mike Petrusky shares an update on his plans for the show, industry conferences happening this fall, and the need for continuous learning for asset and facility management professionals. He discusses important topics that have come up this past year, especially the impact of AI and AI agents on the built environment, and reminds us that we often overestimate short-term technological changes while underestimating long-term change. Mike also talks about being on the 2025 Top Global FM Influencers list and shares his appreciation for the recognition from the IFMA community.
Agenda
- Artificial intelligence and its impact on the FM industry
- Personal reflections on recent episodes and discussions
- Importance of lifelong learning and professional growth
- Upcoming industry events and conferences
What you need to know: Facility and maintenance takeaways
Takeaway 1: The impact of artificial intelligence on the built environment is often underestimated, and its integration is set to transform how facilities are managed and maintained over the next decade
“We always overestimate the change that will occur in the next two years and underestimate the change that will occur in the next 10,” Mike says, paraphrasing Bill Gates. “The idea keeps coming through that while AI won’t replace you, its impact on how you work and how you manage facilities has changed and will continue to change in the months and years to come.”
He then talks about the transformative effects of past technologies like the DVR, streaming music, and smartphones, which initially seemed trivial but later revolutionized their respective industries. “A decade later, everything had changed,” he remarks, suggesting that the same pattern will likely apply to AI in facility management.
Takeaway 2: Lifelong learning and building a network of professionals are crucial for staying relevant in the rapidly evolving field of facilities management
“We also have emphasized here the need to be lifelong learners, getting out of our comfort zones by exploring, getting new credentials and building up our network and our community of professionals we can count on through organizations like IFMA, NFMT, and APPA,” Mike says.
He shares that these organizations provide valuable education and proven strategies to help professionals deliver great value in their organizations. “Those organizations can help us grow in our education, and you can learn some proven strategies to help you continue to deliver great value in your organization.”
Mike also mentions upcoming interviews with experts like Joseph Aamidor, who advises on smart buildings and real estate technology, and Vaughn Halliday, a facility manager and founding member of IFMA’s Trinidad and Tobago chapter.
Takeaway 3: Industry conferences and events are essential for staying informed about the latest AI-driven tools and strategies in facility management
Mike mentions upcoming conferences and events that will focus on the integration of AI, BIM, and digital twins in facility management.
He highlights the involvement of Eptura at Autodesk University, with Nick Stefanidakis, senior vice president of channel and alliances, leading a session on how AI, BIM, and digital twins are powering the future, and Fred Kraus, vice president of product, teaching a session called “Smarter Buildings, Stronger Outcomes.”
Mike also says he’ll be attending IFMA’s World Workplace in Minneapolis, where Erin Sevitz, vice president of content and customer marketing at Eptura, will be delivering a session on efficiency strategies in federal and private sector facility management.
Maintenance management insights
- The introduction of AI will significantly change the way facilities maintenance and asset management are conducted over the next decade.
- New technologies often face initial skepticism but can lead to transformative changes.
- Lifelong learning and professional networking through organizations like IFMA, NFMT, and APPA are crucial for staying relevant in a rapidly evolving field.
- Digital twins and other data management tools can enhance the holistic view of asset life cycles and improve facility operations.
- Industry conferences and courses, such as those at Autodesk University and IFMA’s World Workplace, offer valuable insights and practical strategies for professionals.
Do a deep dive into more asset management insights by exploring all Asset Champion Podcast episodes.
