Facility Voices

David Trask, National Director, ARC Facilities

The Facility Voices podcast is brought to you by ARC Facilities – Providing Instant Mobile Access to Building Information for on-the-go Facilities teams. To learn more about our Smart Building Technology for the Built Space, visit arcfacilities.com.   Your host is David Trask, National Director and Industry Speaker at ARC Facilities.  David  brings you  stories from the front lines of Facilities via conversations with Facilities Management leaders from across the nation. You'll hear real-world stories about leadership, coaching, mentorship, a day in the life of, and so much more!   

  1. JAN 27

    From the Trades to Policy: Centralizing Facilities for Efficiency & Resilience

    In this episode of Facility Voices, Eric Krause, Director of Regional Facilities Hospital Operations at Allina Health, shares a career journey that began in the trades and grew into system-level leadership. Eric reflects on starting as a plumber, building deep hands-on experience in healthcare environments, and how that foundation continues to shape his approach to facilities operations today. The conversation explores Allina Health’s move to centralize facilities teams, breaking down silos to improve consistency, efficiency, and collaboration across hospitals. Eric discusses what it takes to standardize “where it makes sense,” balance rural and metro needs, and use risk-based decision-making to prioritize capital projects and aging infrastructure. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes the value of institutional knowledge, trusted vendor partnerships, and investing in frontline teams to build resilience for the future. Tune in to hear Eric Krause’s story and insights from the front lines of facilities management. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Eric Krause is the Director of Regional Hospital Facilities Operations at Allina Health, overseeing facilities across seven hospitals. With a career that began in the trades as a master plumber, he brings deep technical expertise to healthcare facilities leadership and infrastructure planning. Eric is dual-certified as a CHFM and CHC and remains active in industry leadership through professional associations focused on advancing healthcare engineering and operations.  Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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.

    36 min

  2. JAN 20

    Sustainability, Resilience, and Facilities Innovation in Healthcare

    In this episode of Facility Voices, the conversation turns to sustainability, resilience, and innovation in healthcare facilities with Richie Stever, Vice President of Real Estate and Construction at the University of Maryland Medical Center. Richie’s career path into facilities management is anything but traditional, moving from finance to hands-on HVAC work before stepping into leadership roles overseeing millions of square feet of complex healthcare environments. Along the way, he’s built a reputation for saying yes to challenges and learning fast, whether that meant leading infrastructure projects, navigating the operational chaos of COVID-era mass vaccination sites, or expanding oversight across a rapidly growing real estate portfolio. Richie shares how sustainability is most effective when it’s designed into buildings from the start, not layered on after the fact. He explains how healthcare systems can pursue ambitious environmental goals while still prioritizing reliability, patient safety, and financial responsibility. The discussion highlights practical examples of resilience, long-term thinking, and teamwork that resonate far beyond healthcare. Tune in to hear Richie Stever’s story and insights from the front lines of facilities management. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Richie Stever is Vice President of Real Estate & Construction at the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), overseeing a 12-hospital portfolio of more than 500 properties and a $1.5B capital program. He leads enterprise real estate strategy, capital delivery, and sustainability initiatives, bringing a collaborative approach to advancing cost discipline, schedule certainty, supplier diversity, and UMMS’s long-term decarbonization goals.  Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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.

    29 min

  3. JAN 13

    Planning, Mentorship, and AI: Challenges, Opportunities, and Innovation

    In this episode of Facility Voices, Brian Dodge, Director of Facilities at Scottsdale Community College, shares a career journey shaped by planning, mentorship, and a willingness to embrace change. Brian didn’t enter facilities management through the traditional trades path. Instead, his experience spans military service, construction, entrepreneurship, and leadership roles that taught him the value of organization, adaptability, and people-first management. Throughout the conversation, he reflects on how those experiences influence his approach today, from long-term campus planning to supporting teams behind the scenes. Brian discusses the often unseen role facilities plays as the backbone of an organization, especially within higher education, where diverse spaces and aging infrastructure demand thoughtful strategy. He also explores the importance of mentorship in developing strong leaders and offers practical advice for those considering a career in facilities management. Looking ahead, Brian shares his perspective on emerging technologies like AI and predictive maintenance, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the profession. Tune in to hear Brian Dodge’s story and insights from the front lines of facilities management. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Brian Dodge is the Director of Facilities at Scottsdale Community College in Scottsdale, Arizona. With more than 32 years of experience and an IFMA Certified Facility Manager (CFM) credential, Brian brings deep expertise to the field of facilities management. A U.S. Army veteran, he combines strategic thinking, leadership, and technical knowledge to address the complex challenges of maintaining and improving a modern college campus. Beyond his professional role, Brian enjoys traveling and spending quality time with his family. Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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.

    28 min

  4. JAN 5

    Raising the Roof: Proactive Strategies for Smarter Roof Management

    In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask sits down with Stephen F. James, founder and principal of Digital Facilities Corporation, to explore the often-overlooked world of roof management and why it plays such a critical role in an organization’s long-term success. Stephen traces his journey from leading a thermoplastic roofing division to launching Digital Facilities in 2002, where he began shaping a more data-driven approach to roofing programs. He and David dig into the hidden risks institutions face when organizational knowledge isn’t preserved, the measurable value of a well-designed roof management strategy, and how documentation—everything from as-builts to defect histories—can make or break operational efficiency. Stephen also sheds light on the complexities of green roofs, solar installations, and age-related failures, emphasizing proactive planning and the importance of owning your data. Tune in to hear Stephen James’s story and insights from the front lines of facilities management. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Steven F. James is the founder and managing director of Digital Facilities Corporation (DFC), established in 2002. DFC provides technology and services for managing building enclosures, paving, and vertical transportation. Its roofing customers oversee 20,000+ buildings and 600 million s/f of installations, including major universities and public institutions. Previously, Steven was VP of Commercial Roofing Operations at JPS Elastomerics and held leadership roles at W.R. Grace Construction Products in fire protection, roofing, waterproofing, and insulation. With nationwide and Canadian business experience, he also serves on ASTM committees for building performance, roofing/waterproofing, and drone assessment standards.   Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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.

    40 min

  5. 12/16/2025

    Real-Time Insights: How Sensors Transform Facility Management

    In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask sits down with Charlie Thiel, Chief Revenue Officer at IOTACOM, for a candid conversation about how sensor technology is reshaping the daily reality of facilities teams. Charlie shares his wide-ranging career journey—from years in security technology to consulting across North America—and explains how those experiences led him to IOTACOM’s mission of connecting, collecting, and analyzing data to help people make smarter decisions. Together, David and Charlie explore why digitization in facilities continues to lag behind personal technology adoption, how emerging connectivity standards like LoRaWAN are lowering barriers, and why real-time insights are becoming essential for predictive maintenance, safety, and energy management. Charlie also offers practical advice for organizations starting their sensor journey, emphasizing that small pilot projects often unlock the biggest breakthroughs. Tune in to hear Charlie Thiel’s story and insights from the front lines of facilities management. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  Charlie Thiel is the Chief Revenue Officer at IotaComm, Inc., bringing over three decades of leadership across technology, consulting, and public service, including founding Thiel Strategic, leading business development at CSi, and completing executive education at Wharton. A strong advocate for educational equity, he helped drive Pennsylvania’s first comprehensive equity policy and contributed to the state’s landmark Basic Education Funding Formula while serving on the Allentown School District Board. He now applies his strategic and civic experience to advance IotaComm’s mission of building smarter, safer, more sustainable communities.  Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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.

    41 min

  6. 12/02/2025

    From Risk to Reliability: A Team-Based Approach to Maintenance

    In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask sits down with John D’Angelo, Vice President of Capital Planning and Facilities at Indiana University, to explore the real challenges and opportunities behind an effective preventive maintenance program. John reflects on his career journey—from two decades as a U.S. Naval officer to leading facilities at Cleveland Clinic, NewYork-Presbyterian, Northwestern, and now IU, a portfolio spanning nearly 900 buildings and millions of square feet . John breaks down why mislabeled routine work can create costly blind spots, how life safety and critical equipment must guide priorities, and the risks organizations face when they lack accurate asset data. He also shares practical strategies, including asset tagging and using modern tools to capture institutional knowledge and streamline maintenance workflows. Tune in to hear John D’Angelo’s story and insights from the front lines of facilities management. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  John D’Angelo, MS, PE, CHFM, CHEP, CMVP, is the Vice President of Capital Planning and Facilities at Indiana University, leading a team of 1,700 overseeing nearly 900 buildings across a multibillion-dollar portfolio. He previously held senior facilities leadership roles at the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, and the Cleveland Clinic, following two decades as a U.S. Naval officer. A licensed Professional Engineer with degrees from Purdue and the University of Maryland, John has published and taught extensively, contributed to national codes and standards, and is a 14-time ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year award recipient.  Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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.

    47 min

  7. 11/13/2025

    From Custodian to Leader: How Community, Leadership, and Grit Shape Facilities Success

    In this episode of Facility Voices, David Trask sits down with Brian Johnson, Director of Facilities at Franklin Regional School District, to explore a career built from the ground up. Brian shares how he went from a second-shift custodian in his hometown to leading the facilities operation in the community where he now lives, coaches, and raises his kids. His journey—shaped by custodial work, union leadership, maintenance training, and a deep commitment to education—reveals how hands-on experience can evolve into thoughtful, community-driven leadership. Brian offers an inside look at the realities of managing a district where perception doesn’t always match the needs behind the scenes. From end-of-life equipment and major paving projects to power challenges, PM programs, and navigating community expectations, he explains how transparency, accountability, and a student-first mindset guide every decision. His passion for the work—and for the people it serves—comes through in every story he shares. Tune in to hear Brian Johnson’s story and insights from the front lines of facilities management. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Brian has 12 years of K–12 facilities experience, starting as a custodian at Woodland Hills before advancing into maintenance, union leadership, and eventually Supervisor of Facilities and Custodial Services. In 2024, he became Director of Facilities at Franklin Regional School District. He’s also spent a decade coaching varsity football and holds an HVAC Technician Certification from Penn Foster College.  Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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.

    36 min

  8. 11/04/2025

    Behind the Walls of Healthcare: Leading Healthcare Facilities Through Crisis and Change

    In this episode of Facility Voices, host David Trask sits down with Heather Giampietro, Director of Capital Projects and Facilities at Brown University Health, to explore her unconventional path from small-town Alaska to leading large-scale healthcare projects in Rhode Island. Heather shares how her early exposure to construction shaped her love for problem-solving, how the pandemic reignited her passion for fieldwork, and what it’s like managing a team with more than 250 years of institutional knowledge. She opens up about the challenges of entering healthcare facilities management as a woman, the importance of communication and adaptability, and how multitasking and creative thinking keep complex projects moving forward. Heather also reflects on the value of work-life balance, the need to empower teams in high-pressure environments, and her advice for the next generation—especially women—interested in careers in facilities and skilled trades. This candid and inspiring conversation highlights what it truly takes to lead capital projects and keep healthcare systems running smoothly behind the scenes. Tune in to hear Heather’s story and insights from the front lines of healthcare facilities management. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Heather Giampietro is the Director of Capital Projects and Facilities at Brown University Health and Vice President of the Rhode Island Healthcare Engineering Society. With more than 20 years in healthcare design, she combines her architectural background and hands-on construction experience to create environments that enhance patient care, support staff efficiency, and promote sustainability. Raised in southeast Alaska, Heather brings a practical, problem-solving approach to complex healthcare projects, balancing regulatory demands, safety, and innovation to deliver spaces that truly serve their communities.  Thanks for listening. Follow David Trask on LinkedIn to share feedback. Visit the ARC Facilities LinkedIn page ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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.

    44 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

The Facility Voices podcast is brought to you by ARC Facilities – Providing Instant Mobile Access to Building Information for on-the-go Facilities teams. To learn more about our Smart Building Technology for the Built Space, visit arcfacilities.com.   Your host is David Trask, National Director and Industry Speaker at ARC Facilities.  David  brings you  stories from the front lines of Facilities via conversations with Facilities Management leaders from across the nation. You'll hear real-world stories about leadership, coaching, mentorship, a day in the life of, and so much more!   

Information

  • Creator
    David Trask, National Director, ARC Facilities
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    94
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Copyright © 2023 Facility Voices
  • Show Website
    Facility Voices

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