Facility Voices

Latest Episodes:

Paying it Forward - Digital Transformation of an 85 Year Old Campus Nov 13, 2023

Show notes

Check out the latest episode of the Facility Voices Podcast, where David sits down with Byron Woods, the Dean of Facilities at the College of the Sequoias.

Byron delves into navigating the upkeep of aging buildings and infrastructure, offering a fascinating glimpse into the transformative journey of digitizing plans for optimal facilities management. Byron stresses the need for thorough documentation, especially for older structures where the history of remodels might be a bit tricky to dig up or lost altogether. He also shares stories about the surprises encountered during construction projects and the vital role of technology in improving response times and overall efficiency.

Drawing attention to the importance of digitization, Byron highlights its impact on the onboarding process for new team members, resulting in a significant reduction in ramp-up time through instant access to critical information.

If you're curious about the ins and outs of facilities management and want some real talk from the pros, this episode is a must-listen.
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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.

3 Keys to Building a Successful Team – Communication, Communication & Communication Nov 03, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask sits down with Michael Terrell, Senior Operations Director of Facilities Management at Liberty University, to discuss Michael’s journey from nuclear power to university facilities management, and the unique challenges he's faced in his role.

Liberty University, founded in 1971, has grown significantly in the past few years, with over seven and a half million square feet of space on its campus, making it one of the largest Christian universities in the nation. In his role as Operation Director, Michael is focusing on improving campus operations and preparing for the future. One of the key initiatives he's working on is implementing an Integrated Workplace Management System (IWMS) to replace an outdated Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) that has been in place since 2005.

Michael Also talks about Liberty’s initiatives to sub-meter water, gas, electric, air, and more to better control their utility costs. The conversation touches on the impacts of an aging workforce, retirements, and the difficulties of attracting new talent. Michael shares how they're looking into apprenticeship programs and partnerships with local organizations and universities to address the workforce shortage and provide training to future technicians.

This episode is a must listen for anyone navigating the intricacies of Facilities Management in Higher Education.
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Mr. Terrell is the Senior Director of Facilities Operations at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Va. Prior to joining Liberty in 2021, Mr. Terrell was a Senior Project Manager at William & Mary. His career spans over 40 years managing projects in the commercial nuclear power industry. At Liberty, Mr. Terrell is focused on implementing an Integrated Workplace Management System and establishing roadmap to a “ Single Pane of Glass” program to help monitor and reduce utility cost.

Skilled Trades: Erasing the Stigma of "its just a job and not a career" Oct 25, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of Facility Voices David Trask is joined by Doug Winston, President, and CEO of DNM Electrical Contracting and Skilled-Trades Advocate with Bring Back the Trades Inc, as he shares his journey in the electrical industry and the various successful entities under his wing. From utility construction to equipment repair, Doug's businesses span a wide spectrum, even including a motorsports venture.

Doug talks about his advocacy work for skilled trades and the misconception that one must go to college to be successful. He underscores the abundant opportunities and financial security attainable in the skilled trades, while also addressing the existing stigma associated with vocational education. Doug emphasizes the importance of nurturing genuine interest and passion in a field, rather than funneling everyone toward a one-size-fits-all approach, sharing several personal experiences where he helped coach young people in their career journeys.
With over 40 years of industry experience, Doug offers a unique perspective on the value and potential of careers in the trades. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired and informed about the diverse career opportunities that exist beyond the traditional college path.

Developing a Facilities Career Growth Program in Higher Education Oct 20, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask hosts guests Kimberly Thomas, Special Projects Advisor to AVP, and Cale Caudell, Director of Operations and Maintenance from the University of Georgia (UGA). Together, they shed light on the challenges faced by UGA's Facilities Management Division in the wake of evolving workplace culture and workforce transition.

Kimberly, with her extensive background in higher education administration and K-12 facilities, provides valuable insights into her role as the Special Projects Coordinator; and Cale, who has been with UGA since 2008, shares his journey from building services to his current role as Director of Operations and Maintenance.

Their conversation delves into the unique landscape of UGA, a level one research institution with over 40,000 undergraduate students and 8,000 graduate students. With a diverse range of facilities, including high-capacity labs and cutting-edge technology, the university presents complex challenges for its Facilities Management Division. Kimberly and Cale spotlight UGA's proactive response to the obstacle of workforce turnover, exemplified by their innovative Career Ladder Program. They discuss how this program addresses critical issues, such as salary discrepancies, job descriptions, and the need for internal growth pathways. They emphasize the importance of aligning HR practices with the intricate demands of facilities roles, highlighting the value of prioritizing practices which increase employee retention by providing long term career opportunities.

This insightful episode serves as a valuable resource for facility managers, HR professionals, and anyone interested in addressing the evolving workforce dynamics within large institutions.
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Kimberly Thomas is the Special Projects Advisor for UGA Facilities Management Division's Associate Vice President, bringing 32 years of experience in higher education and K-12 administration. She previously served as Senior Director of Services, overseeing Building Services, Fleet & Grounds, Sustainability, Warehouse Operations, and the Work Request Center. Before that, she excelled as the Executive Director of Plant Operations at Clarke County School District, earning accolades such as the Green Cleaning Award of Schools and Universities in 2015. Her commitment to green cleaning and sustainability garnered recognition from various organizations, including the Healthy Schools Network and US Green Building Council.
Cale Caudell holds a master's degree from the University of Georgia and boasts 20+ years of supervisory experience, with the last 15 years dedicated to roles in UGA's FM Division. Since September 2018, he has excelled in Operations & Maintenance, progressing from an Assistant Director role to becoming the Director of Operations and Maintenance in March 2023. Over the years, he has contributed significantly in various capacities, including Building Services and Support Services. Cale's greatest satisfaction comes from aiding his colleagues and witnessing their successes.

Navigating Electrical Safety: An In-Depth Look at NFPA 70 Oct 11, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask is joined by Marshall MacFarlane, IFMA Fellow and Facility Services Manager at C3 Engineering whose impressive journey from a Millwright to a Facilities Manager provides perspective on the world of facility management and electrical safety.

Drawing from his extensive career including industrial mechanics, safety management, electrical engineering, and facilities management, Marshall shares some highlights and key takeaways. His rich background imparts invaluable life lessons and profound insights into the ever-changing landscape of facility management.

Together, David and Marshall take a deep dive into NFPA 70E and NFPA 70B, the dynamic duo ensuring electrical safety within facilities. Marshall breaks down the evolution of these standards, emphasizing their transformation from recommendations to steadfast regulations. They also touch on the often-overlooked aspect of electrical safety within the facility domain, with Marshall underscoring the importance of adhering to manufacturer-recommended maintenance practices and the potential liability that can result from non-compliance.

David and Marshall also share some amusing anecdotes from their experiences in the field, shedding light on the unexpected challenges and tasks that facility professionals encounter along the way.

You won’t want to miss out on this episode and the many years of experience and insight that Marshall brings to the Facilities Management Conversation, especially if you are a facilities professional looking to learn more about NFPA guidelines.

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Marshall MacFarlane is a millwright by trade but has been in Facilities Management for nearly 20 years, with significant experience in Preventive Maintenance, Security and Emergency Planning. Marshall has worked in both the public and private sectors and also in manufacturing. He just ended his two-year term as President of the Greater Phoenix Area Chapter of IFMA and is a newly appointed IFMA Fellow. Marshall is also a Canadian Army Veteran and a freelance writer and editor. Marshall lives in Queen Creek, Arizona with his wife and three crazy dogs.

Navigating the Unique Challenges of a Private Quaker School Campus Oct 06, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of Facility Voices, we take a trip into the world of facilities management at George School, a private Quaker school with a rich history, unique culture, and sprawling campus. David and Robert H. Kleimenhagen, Jr., CFM, SFP, ProFM, the Director of Physical Plant at George School, discuss the challenges and opportunities that come with overseeing this exceptional campus.
Uncover how Robert and his team are reshaping George School’s facilities management by introducing a new work order management system and cutting-edge technology, all while maintaining the school's commitment to consensus-based decision-making. Discover the secrets to overseeing a diverse collection of buildings and fostering strong partnerships with the C-suite.
Whether you're an FM professional or simply curious about the inner workings of a private school campus, this episode offers valuable insights into the ever-evolving world of facilities management.
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Robert H. Kleimenhagen Jr., CFM, SFP, ProFM is Principal at RKFM Consulting Group, LLC and the Director of Physical at George School. He oversees all aspects of campus operations, ensuring a safe, comfortable environment for students and staff. Leading a team of 55, he maintains an area of 250 acres, comprising a portfolio totaling 600 hundred thousand square feet over 75 buildings. With 26 years of public and education sector facility management, he previously held key roles at Central Bucks School District, Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, and PennDOT. He served as president of the IFMA Central PA Chapter in 2015/2016, has served as a member of the board of directors for the IFMA Central Pennsylvania Chapter and as co-chair of the certification committee, and is a past recipient of the IFMA Central PA Chapter Facility Manager of the Year Award in 2007 and 2017, Advocate of the Year in 2009, and Committee of Year Award in 2009. Kleimenhagen holds degrees from DeSales and Lehigh Universities and obtained his Certified Facility Manager (CFM) and Sustainability Facility Professional (SFP) credentials from the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) and the ProFM credential from the ProFM Institute. A native of Southampton in Bucks County, PA, he has three daughters and lives in Doylestown, PA with his wife and youngest daughter.

Building an Infrastructure Program – Take it One Bite at a Time Sep 29, 2023

Show notes

Tune in for our latest episode of Facility Voices, “Building an Infrastructure Program – Take it One Bite at a Time”, featuring Jonathan Hunley, Systems Director of Infrastructure at Bon Secours Mercy Health.

Jonathan helped us go behind the scenes to better understand the complexities of healthcare facilities. He shared how his background in construction and his love for learning equipped him with the tools to achieve his goals, where his knowledge of how infection spreads and HVAC systems helped him make life saving facilities recommendations.
Additionally, Jonathan talks about how his focus on long-term planning and standardization has helped him to implement an incredibly successful infrastructure program at Mercy Health, and how his team has been an important aspect of that success. The key leadership model is simple, Jonathan says, determine your priorities and then focus on continual improvement, even if it’s just a 1% enhancement each day.
Whether you work in Facilities, Healthcare, or just want to know more about how the built space impacts patient care, this valuable episode is a must listen.
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Jonathan Hunley, System Director of Infrastructure at Bon Secours Mercy Health, leads strategic planning for one of the largest U.S. healthcare networks. He is passionate about rethinking how to design and build healthcare spaces through high-performance building systems, environmental responsibility, prioritizing resiliency, integrating new technology, and designing spaces to promote health and wellness. In the past 16 years, he has directed and advised on the construction and renovation of 58 facilities and will lead over $800 million in planned infrastructure investments over the next 5 years. Jonathan is a former President of Tri-State Society of Healthcare Engineering, and in 2020, he received the ASHE Leadership Award for Region 5. He is an active member and a participant in the ASHE Leadership Institute, Class of 2024.

Successful Facilities Leadership Starts with a Coach Sep 22, 2023

Show notes

Tune in for the latest episode of Facility Voices where David Trask sits down with Ramon Owens, Facilities Director at the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation. Ramon shares his vast experience in leading and optimizing operations, as well as the multitude of strategies he uses daily to navigate the unique world of childcare facilities. As a seasoned professional, Ramon believes that successful facility leadership goes beyond just managing the physical aspects of a space; it requires a coaching approach to bring out the best in the team and foster a culture of growth.

Whether you're a facilities manager, aspiring leader, or simply interested in the art of effective management, this episode is sure to provide valuable insights on how a coaching mentality can transform facility operations and drive success.

Adapting Physical Spaces and Personal Skills to Best Serve Healthcare Communities Sep 15, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to this week's episode of Facility Voices, where we delve into "Adapting Physical Spaces and Personal Skills to Best Serve Healthcare Communities.” Our special guest, Jonathan Westall FACHE, brings a wealth of expertise to the discussion as the Vice President of Ancillary Services at MLK Community Healthcare.

Tune in as Jonathan sheds light on the impact of crafting environments that promote healing and comfort for patients, while also providing healthcare professionals with the skills required to administer unparalleled care. In his role overseeing Ancillary Services, Jonathan understands how important it is to allocate your facilities and resources to keep pace with the ever-evolving needs of patients. He also emphasizes the importance of assembling a team of motivated professionals, which he sees as a cornerstone in accomplishing this objective.

Gain exclusive insights into the innovative approaches and visionary thinking that propels MLK Community Healthcare to the forefront of transformative healthcare practices. Don't miss out on this valuable episode which promises to spark inspiration and provoke thought in anyone passionate about revolutionizing healthcare delivery.

$700 and a Dream – Cesar Robles’ Journey to Healthcare Facilities Director Sep 11, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to our inspiring podcast episode: "$700 and a Dream: Cesar Robles' Journey to Healthcare Facility Director." In this episode, we have the privilege of sharing the remarkable story of Cesar Robles, who, armed with determination and a mere $700, embarked on a journey that led him to become a Healthcare Facility Director.

Join us as we dive into Cesar's incredible life journey, starting from his courageous decision to leave his home country as an immigrant in pursuit of a better future. With limited resources and facing numerous challenges, Cesar's unwavering spirit and hard work propelled him forward, opening doors to opportunities he could only dream of.

Through the ups and downs, Cesar's passion for healthcare and his dedication to serving others remained unwavering. Learn how he overcame obstacles, seized opportunities, and built a successful career in the healthcare industry. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and the potential that lies within each of us to achieve greatness.

Whether you're an immigrant yourself, working in the healthcare sector, or simply seeking inspiration, Cesar Robles' journey will resonate and motivate. Tune in as we explore the transformative power of perseverance, hope, and the pursuit of a dream against all odds.

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