In episode 139 of Asset Champion, host Mike Petrusky speaks with Terry Maynard, BSM, PMP, CEFP, Zone Manager at The University of Virginia (UVA) Facilities Management Operations Department where he provides motivational leadership for his team. The two talk about why Maynard believes professional development is so essential for team success and how leaders can leverage available talent to meet the needs of the built environment. The conversation covers ways to enhance FM collaboration and how adapting new technologies can help professionals meet today’s challenges in facilities management, including sustainability, resilience, and adaptability.
Agenda
- Importance of professional development for facility management teams
- Challenges in recruiting talented tradesmen and how UVA is finding solutions
- Role of new technology in facilities management
- Importance of internal collaboration for continuing success
What you need to know: Facility and maintenance takeaways
Takeaway 1: Investments in professional development are just as crucial as preventative maintenance for buildings
There are important parallels between professional development and preventative maintenance.
“We need to think of professional development for our team in the same capacity that we think of preventative maintenance for the buildings. Just as we regularly maintain equipment to fix breakdowns and extend its life, we need to invest in our people to keep them engaged, skilled and ready for future challenges,” explains Maynard. A proactive approach to team development, he says, not only helps retain talent but also enables the workforce to adapt, be resilient, and thrive in a constantly changing facility management environment.
Takeaway 2: Inward collaboration and efficient use of existing talent can boost an organization’s success
The efficiency and success of an organization often hinges on its ability to look inward and collaborate with existing teams, and adapting to new technologies will always be important, but even the best technology requires maintenance.
Maynard elaborates: “We should look inward for our ability to collaborate with the teams we already have… using talent we already have is always cheaper than bringing somebody new in and also has a large impact on morale for the group.”
In fact, there should be the potential for creating progressive pathways within a team, providing opportunities for team members to build their skills and grow within their roles.
Takeaway 3: Flexibility, resilience, and adaptability are crucial qualities in facilities management
Planning for the future means ensuring facilities can withstand environmental challenges, supporting the latest technologies, and remaining adaptable to meet evolving needs.
Maynard encourages professionals in the industry to “… focus on enhancing the well-being and safety of the occupants by designing environments that promote health and productivity.” He also points out the importance of preparing the workforce to be adaptable, resilient, and able to thrive in an ever-changing facilities management environment.
Asset management insights
- Professional development for teams should be viewed as preventative maintenance for buildings. It’s important to invest in people to keep them engaged, skilled, and ready for future challenges.
- The current job market is competitive, making it difficult to recruit talent. UVA is focusing on recruiting individuals with the right attitude and ability, and then providing them with the necessary training.
- Technology plays a crucial role in facilities management. For instance, controls on HVAC systems can help save energy and identify issues before they affect residents.
- Internal collaboration can help organizations be more efficient. For instance, UVA uses its custodial teams to help offset peak maintenance periods.
- Maynard’s military background has taught him the importance of constantly changing perspectives and looking for new things.
Do a deep dive into more asset management insights by exploring all Asset Champion Podcast episodes.
