Beyond Buildings: Exploring Facilities Management FMX

In this episode, Director, Operations and Maintenance at Huntley Schools Doug Renkosik shares his unique 30-year journey from structural engineering to facilities leadership in public education. The episode delves deep into the challenges faced by Huntley School District during its rapid growth from 800 to 10,000 students, highlighting the adjustments required in staffing, budgeting, and building maintenance. Doug emphasizes the importance of building a reliable team, maintaining rigorous training programs, and the critical need for effective communication with the Board of Education. 
00:00 Doug's work as project engineer, then facilities manager.
06:33 Investment in tech training can lead to loss.
08:56 Long hours, tight budget, frequent staff changes.
13:36 Requested help was ignored, causing prolonged stress.
14:45 Traffic engineer needed, problems arose later. Sprinkler system complexity and management issues.
20:34 Ohio funded new schools, increasing operating costs.
22:39 Sharing successes and staying connected with workforce.
27:01 Network, learn, make time, solve challenges.
28:05 Prioritizing exercise, reading, and outdoor adventures post-work.

In this episode, our host, Brian Gregory, sits down with Lee Raspberry, Director of Construction and Planning for Bastrop Independent School District. Together, they discuss utilizing machine learning and artificial intelligence to optimize building automation systems. They cover:
[00:00:54] Lee's background and what drives him to wake up and do the best job he possibly can every single day[00:02:46] The importance of sustainability and how energy management impacts the buildings we work, learn and live in[00:06:52] Lee's experience moving from the private sector to the public sector (and why he caught so many colds!)[00:09:51] Lee's approach to reducing consumption and positively impacting the environment[00:19:05] How Lee leverages machine learning to develop algorithms for his BAS that allow for more efficient temperature control[00:29:36] Lee's most enjoyable and challenging moments of his career[00:34:49] Advice from Lee for those entering public education or building automation

In this episode, our host, Brian Gregory, sits down with John Carrillo, Chairman of the Global FM organization. Together, they discuss the impact and importance of digitization and technology in the FM industry. They cover:

[00:01:03] John's background and how he transitioned from architecture to facilities management
[00:03:56] The impact joining an organization like IFMA had on John and why this is so important
[00:05:48] Impactful moments in facilities management history and John’s predictions for what may be coming down the road
[00:09:06] How to increase your team’s resilience 
[00:15:16] The impact digitization has on sustainability
[00:17:15] John’s view on facilities management and why he’s so passionate about this field
[00:18:30] How larger companies are leveraging new, advanced technology to drive their operations and businesses forward
[00:28:35] Advice for those looking to enter the facilities management field

In this episode, our host, Brian Gregory, sits down with Paul Schuler, Manager of Maintenance at St. Vrain Valley Schools. Together, they discuss the significance of resilience and the impact of community engagement. They cover:
[00:01:01] Paul's background and how he ultimately ended up managing maintenance at a K-12 district[00:07:46] What drew Paul back to work for a K-12 district after leaving to pursue another opportunity[00:12:35] The challenges and opportunities Paul experiences working for a wealthy and growing school district[00:19:33] The role Paul and his team play in new building construction[00:22:55] How Paul maintains trust with the leadership team at his district[00:30:35] Paul's advice to those interested in pursuing a career in facilities management

In this episode, our host, Brian Gregory, sits down with Dr. CJ Huff, former Superintendent of Joplin Schools. Together, they discuss the significance of resilience and the impact of community engagement. They cover:
[00:01:00] Dr. Huff's background in education and some of the challenges he's experienced over the years[00:07:31] Dr. Huff's experience entering the role of Superintendent [00:09:43] The Joplin, Missouri tornado and how Dr. Huff kept the schools in operation during this disaster[00:13:08] Dr. Huff's philosophy on facilities management and its impact on the students[00:15:52] Dr. Huff's work with the US Department of Health and Human Services[00:18:29] How to handle the cultural impact of natural disasters on the community, staff, and students[00:22:39] The impact Bright Futures USA is having on student success and graduation rates[00:26:02] Dr. Huff's advice for getting into a Facilities or Superintendent role 

In this episode, our host, Brian Gregory, sits down with Brandon Chabola, Director of Plant Services at Penn Hills School District. Together, they discuss the importance of building trust in your team and overall strategies for team building and mentorship. They cover:
[00:00:49] Brandon's background and his transition from lawnmowing to facilities management[00:04:04] How to transition effectively into a new facilities management role [00:05:31] Brandon's approach to building, growing, and promoting his team[00:08:19] The nuances of an individual contributor role vs. a management role[00:14:40] Brandon's involvement with PASBO[00:15:56] Combatting the current labor shortages[00:24:22] Advice from Brandon for those looking to become a facilities management leader