In episode 385, host Mike Petrusky speaks with Vik Bangia, MCR, the CEO of both Verum Consulting and Verum’s OutsourceUSA, where he is a CRE and FM outsourcing advisor, workplace strategist, and author of the book “Tales from an Accidental Corporate Real Estate Leader”. Mike and Vik reflect on their time together at IFMA’s World Workplace in Minneapolis and look forward to a new year with great challenges and opportunities on the horizon. They explore the need for facility management leaders to understand how AI can help them think more strategically with its potential to take over mundane and routine tasks in the built environment. Vik shares his career journey in corporate real estate and encourages listeners to become aware of AI’s capabilities and embrace new tools and opportunities in the industry.
Agenda
- Understanding AI awareness and AI readiness as prerequisites for successful adoption
- Exploring how AI is transforming facilities management and corporate real estate
- Offering practical guidance for workplace leaders preparing for 2026 and beyond
What you need to know: Workplace takeaways
Takeaway 1: AI readiness starts with mindset, not technology
“Before they get to the enablement part, they have to understand their AI awareness and their AI readiness,” Vik emphasizes.
Many organizations jump straight into tools without assessing whether their teams understand AI’s purpose or strategic value. Vik argues that leaders must first cultivate curiosity and openness. Without this foundation, even the best AI solutions will fall flat.
For facility management and corporate real estate professionals—who often operate in reactive, high‑pressure environments—this mindset shift is essential. Leaders who invest in understanding AI’s role will be better positioned to implement solutions that genuinely improve operations.
Takeaway 2: AI frees leaders to think more strategically
“Take a long look at artificial intelligence and what AI can do for you specifically in your workplace to unlock your ability to think more strategically,” Vik advises.
AI’s power lies in its ability to take over repetitive, time‑consuming tasks such as data entry, reporting, and routine maintenance workflows. When these tasks are automated, workplace professionals gain the bandwidth to anticipate challenges, plan proactively, and focus on long‑term strategy.
For those responsible for keeping buildings running smoothly, this shift from reactive to strategic work is transformative.
Takeaway 3: Growth requires discomfort and courage
“If you’re not uncomfortable and you didn’t face your fears today, you didn’t add enough value,” Mike shares during the conversation.
Both speakers highlight that embracing AI requires courage. Trying new tools, rethinking workflows, and challenging long‑standing norms can feel intimidating—but that discomfort signals progress.
Vik encourages listeners to “be those people” who lean into change rather than wait on the sidelines. The leaders who embrace AI early will shape how their organizations operate and innovate.
Workplace management insights
- AI readiness requires leaders to evaluate their mindset, culture, and openness to change.
- Facilities management and corporate real estate are undergoing major shifts driven by AI‑enabled capabilities.
- Automating routine tasks frees professionals to focus on strategic planning and operational excellence.
- Proactive adoption of AI positions workplace leaders to add greater value and stay ahead of industry transformation.
- Mindset shifts—not just new tools—will determine which organizations thrive in 2026 and beyond.
- Leaders who embrace discomfort and experimentation will be best equipped to navigate the future.
- AI is not just a tool; it’s a catalyst for elevating strategic thinking across the workplace.
Explore the full library of Workplace Innovator podcast episodes for an in‑depth look at workplace insights.
Watch the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J
