Facility Voices

Latest Episodes:

Problem-Solving in the Age of AI: Tools, Teams, and Transformation Sep 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Facility Voices, host David Trask sits down with Steven Atkins, Director of Facilities Operations at Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare in Memphis, Tennessee. Steven shares his journey from growing up in a construction family to leading facilities operations for a 3-million-square-foot hospital campus.

The conversation dives into the role of AI in healthcare facilities—how it’s being used today for policies, planning, and energy optimization, and where it could go in predictive maintenance, knowledge capture, and building automation. Steven also talks about bridging generational gaps on his team, preparing for institutional knowledge loss, and building a culture of curiosity that drives efficiency and innovation.

Listen in for a candid discussion on the challenges and opportunities AI presents for healthcare facilities and what leaders can do to prepare their teams for the future.

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Steven Atkins (CHFM, CHOP) is the Director of Facility Operations at a large 26 acre, 3 million sq. ft campus for Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare in Memphis, TN. In just a few years, Steven has charted an impressive path in healthcare operations, driven by a passion for continuous learning and system-wide efficiency. Steven has received awards as an Emerging Leader for the American Society of Healthcare Engineers (ASHE) and was named to the Top 40 Professionals under 40 by the Memphis Business Jounal for the class of 2025.

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.

From Toolbox to Team Leader: How Passion and People Drive Success in Facilities Management Sep 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask sits down with Nick Queensland, Director of Facilities Management at Johns Hopkins Medicine. Nick shares his inspiring journey from maintenance technician to leadership, underscoring how passion and people are at the heart of a successful facilities career.

From tackling recruitment and retention challenges to developing future leaders, Nick highlights why training, mentorship, and a positive work culture are essential for long-term success. He also dives into the importance of trust, communication, and collaboration when navigating change in complex organizations.

Whether you’re just starting out or considering your next step in facilities management, Nick’s insights offer both inspiration and practical advice. Tune in to hear his perspective on building strong teams, leading with purpose, and finding fulfillment in a career that makes a lasting impact.

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Nick Queensland is the Director of Facilities Management at Johns Hopkins Medicine. He previously spent 23 years with Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, where he advanced from technician to Unit Head of the Rochester hospitals. After serving as Director of Facilities for Luminis Health, he joined Johns Hopkins in 2025. Nick holds a BS in Business Management, an MBA in Healthcare Administration, and multiple industry certifications, including BOMI, CHFM, and FEMA.

Built to Lead: Facility Wisdom from the Islands Aug 18, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask sits down with Taylor Ayers, Director of Facilities for two major hospitals and 25 clinics across Hawaii. Taylor shares his unconventional path into healthcare facilities management, the importance of creating healing environments, and how collaboration within the Hawaii Society for Healthcare Engineering strengthens the industry. He offers practical strategies for selling ideas to leadership, from building a compelling business case to tailoring communication styles for different audiences. Taylor also reveals his approach to asset management, capital planning, and preparing for the unexpected—while keeping critical systems running in high-stakes healthcare settings.

Tune in to hear valuable insights from the front lines of facilities management in Hawaii.

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Taylor Ayers brings more than a decade of leadership experience directing facilities management in the health care sector. Currently he serves as a Facilities Management Director for multiple hospitals & clinics in Honolulu, HI. He is also leading enterprise-wide decarbonization efforts as the chairperson for his health care system’s Sustainability Committee. Throughout his experience Taylor has led various support service departments including plant operations, biomedical engineering, EVS, security, central supply & procurement. In addition, he has managed large capital projects and led campus master planning.

Exploring Facilities Management at Space Center Houston Aug 12, 2025

Show notes

Erik Swindle, Vice President of Facilities Operations and Capital Projects at Space Center Houston, joins us to talk about managing one of the most iconic and complex nonprofit destinations in the country. With a 25-year career spanning global nonprofits, sustainable construction, museums, and hospitals, Erik shares how his diverse background helps him oversee infrastructure at a site housing NASA artifacts, massive HVAC systems, special events, and millions of international visitors.

He discusses the transition to in-house maintenance, lessons from past projects (like a LEED Platinum headquarters and a dairy farm in Kenya), and what it takes to protect priceless pieces like Apollo capsules and JFK’s Rice University podium.

From engineering insights to leadership philosophy, Erik offers a fresh perspective on what it means to future-proof a legacy facility.

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Erik J. Swindle is an accomplished facilities and operations executive with over two decades of experience leading large-scale capital projects, sustainable building initiatives, and integrated facilities management in nonprofit, cultural, and public sectors. Currently serving as Vice President of Facilities Operations & Capital Projects at Space Center Houston, Erik previously held leadership roles at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, Heifer International, and other mission-driven organizations, overseeing LEED-certified construction projects, complex relocations, and cross-functional operations teams. A certified LEED AP, IFMA CFM, and SCFM professional, Erik is a recognized industry leader and advocate for sustainability, energy efficiency, and cultural property protection, actively participating in national and global professional associations.

From Blueprints to Bedside: Leading Healthcare Facilities Forward Jul 14, 2025

Show notes

Michael Hoeflein, Regional Director of Maintenance and Facilities at University of Michigan Health Regional Network, joins host David Trask to explore the complexities of uniting facilities operations across six hospitals and 100 sites of care. With a background that spans design, construction, and operations, Michael shares how his wide-ranging experience has shaped his leadership approach—from navigating microcultures and regulatory readiness to building subject matter expertise within teams.

He also opens up about the power of inclusive communication, the importance of culture in retaining staff, and how connecting employees’ daily work to organizational goals can drive engagement. Packed with actionable insights on team building, standardization, and change leadership, this episode is a must-listen for facility leaders tackling growth, complexity, and transformation.

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Michael Hoeflein is the Regional Director of Maintenance and Facilities at University of Michigan Health Regional Network. He specializes in process improvement, regulatory compliance, and quality. Michael has led five successful TJC and CMS surveys and developed a multi-year preparedness strategy that earned the highest TJC scorecard in over 20 years. He previously managed operations for 6.5 million sq. ft. of healthcare space, overseeing 170 staff across hospitals and clinics.

From Tools to Talent: Tackling the Skilled Trades Shortage in Healthcare Jun 30, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask sits down with Joe Fullington, E.d.D, MBA, CHFM, Director of Facility Services at Duke Health, to explore the growing urgency around skilled trades in healthcare facilities. Joe shares his unconventional journey from electrician to educator to facilities leader, and breaks down the real-world challenges of talent shortages, knowledge loss, and regulatory pressure.

He also shares the internship program he helped develop—designed to bridge the gap left by retiring staff and provide a clear path into healthcare facilities careers for the next generation. From partnering with technical colleges to equipping interns with hands-on experience and guaranteed job placements, Joe’s approach is creating real impact.

If you're concerned about the future of your facilities team—or curious how to grow talent from within—this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

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Joe Fullington holds a Doctorate in Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, an MBA from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, and a bachelor’s in Business from Columbia College of Missouri. He began his career as an electrician, later serving as a dean at a technical college before returning to healthcare facilities management. Now Director of Facility Services at Duke Health, Joe combines his backgrounds in trades and education to develop workforce pipelines and mentor the next generation of skilled professionals.

Building Effective Training Programs: Empowering Employees for Success Jun 16, 2025

Show notes

David Trask speaks with Neyael Rubio-Delgado and James Anderson about the evolving landscape of facility management, especially in response to post-COVID staffing challenges, in this episode of Facility Voices. Drawing from their career experiences, Neyael and James talk about ESL programs, hands-on training, employee empowerment, and effective onboarding. They highlight how data-driven quality assurance and leadership support have transformed their approach to training and staff development. The conversation also delves into the impact of collaboration, communication, and creative thinking in the workplace.

Explore how innovative training programs and a commitment to employee growth are reshaping facility management for the better.

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Neyael Rubio-Delgado is the Residential Building Services Training Manager for University Housing at the University of Georgia. With nearly nine years in facilities management, she leads staff training and development to ensure clean, safe, and efficient residential spaces. Her focus is on mentoring, compliance, and enhancing operations to support the student experience.

With over 15 years in custodial leadership, James is the Director of Building Services at Georgia College and State University. Starting as front-line staff at the University of Georgia in 2009, he now oversees custodial operations, inventory, procurement, and budgeting. James is dedicated to team development and maintaining a clean, efficient campus environment.

Building a Future: A Vision for Proactive, Efficient & Engaged School Facilities Jun 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask chats with Salum Stutzer, Director of Facilities and Operations at Francis Howell School District, about leading a growing district that serves nearly 17,000 students and the challenges of aging infrastructure. Salum discusses proactive maintenance, professional development, and community engagement. He shares insights into the district’s bond program, strategies for modernizing facilities, and the role of transparency and collaboration. The conversation explores how facilities teams can support safe, modern learning environments while adapting to future educational needs.

Learn how Salum is leading with purpose and building stronger schools through thoughtful facility management.

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Salum Stutzer is the Director of Facilities and Operations for the Francis Howell School District, where he oversees all aspects of physical plant operations, including architecture, construction, custodial services, grounds, maintenance, warehousing, and safety. With over 18 years of experience in facilities and operations, Salum has held roles across both the public sector and private higher education. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Recreational Administration and a Master’s in Education. Salum is happily married to his college sweetheart, and together they have three sons, ages 17, 13, and 10.

Fast-Track Your Career in High-Demand Skilled Trades May 19, 2025

Show notes

David Trask speaks with John Voit and Rob Holmes from Forge Now about the critical need for skilled tradespeople in today’s workforce in this episode of Facility Voices. John and Rob explain how Forge Now’s vocational training program is helping close the skilled trades gap by preparing military personnel and other candidates for careers in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and facilities maintenance. The discussion explores the rising demand for skilled trades, strong earning potential, and how technology supports these professions. John and Rob also examine the national security risks tied to the shortage and highlight the role of employer involvement in successful job placements.

Learn how Forge Now is reshaping perceptions of vocational education and equipping the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

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Rob Holmes is the co-founder of ForgeNow, a career skills school training technicians for in-demand trades. In just four years, ForgeNow has graduated over 1,500 students—many of them military veterans or individuals from underemployed backgrounds—into sustainable careers. The school is accredited by the U.S. Department of Education and partners with the Departments of Defense, Veterans Affairs, and Labor. A West Point graduate and Bronze Star recipient, Rob also holds an MBA from UNC-Chapel Hill and has studied at the London School of Economics and Hillsdale College.

John Voit leads business development, employer engagement, and placement services, a catalyst for student opportunities. He collaborates with businesses and military bases to facilitate student enrollment. John's strategic approach extends to fostering partnerships with companies, ensuring mutual success for both parties. Under his guidance, ForgeNow is not just an educational institution but a dynamic force shaping professional connections and opportunities for your future. John is a 2018 graduate of the US Military Academy at West Point, where he majored in Systems Design Management. He was commissioned as an Infantry officer in the US Army and served a majority of his time in the 10th MTN Division.

Prepare for your Worst Day, Every Day: A Proactive Approach to FM May 05, 2025

Show notes

David Trask interviews Trent McJunkin, Facilities and Maintenance Manager at Oshkosh Defense, about his journey from high school welding courses to a leadership role in facility management, in this episode of Facility Voices. Trent shares how his background in industrial electronics and automotive manufacturing has shaped his approach to building a world-class facilities department. The conversation covers how to build a people-first culture, proactive management strategies, and the value of departmental collaboration. Trent also discusses obstacles like supply chain disruptions, managing critical infrastructure, and building vendor partnerships. Tune in to hear Trent’s insights on developing people to drive leadership and success.

Listen now to discover the strategies behind creating a top-tier facilities team and the lessons learned along the way!

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A South Carolina native, Trent McJunkin has been in the trades since high school, where he began taking a welding class at his local high school career center. After enrolling in Tri-County Technical College, Trent found his interest for industrial maintenance while studying Industrial Electronics Technology. Working in the OEM automotive manufacturing sector for over a decade has helped him find more opportunities for growth and helped him develop his passion for excellence within an organization. Trent’s goal is to drive facilities & maintenance excellence by making people development the top priority. The greatest reward for him is when he sees his team members experience growth and success.

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