On this episode of the Modern Facilities Management podcast, Griffin Hamilton speaks with Richard Boothman and Jamie Tuinstra from Modine about their experiences in the heating industry, the transition from the UK to the US market, and the importance of heating efficiency and fuel sources. 
They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the market, the significance of preventative maintenance, and emerging technologies such as air to water heat pumps. 
Enjoy!

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Modine and Its Leaders

02:59
Transitioning from the UK to the US Market

06:00
Understanding Modine's Market Position and Product Offerings

09:04
Heating Efficiency and Fuel Sources

12:02
Evaluating Equipment for Future-Proofing Facilities

14:53
The Importance of Preventative Maintenance

17:51
Emerging Technologies in Heating Systems

24:09
Personal Influences and Career Reflections

Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

On this episode of the Modern Facilities Management Podcast, Griffin Hamilton interviews Alex Carlson, VP of Facilities Management Services at FineTune. Alex discusses his career journey from retail operations at Target to his current role at FineTune, where he focuses on expense management for facilities services. They dive into the importance of auditing, building strong supplier relationships, ensuring quality in service delivery, and the impact of mentorship and personal influences on car...

SummaryIn this episode, Joe Sharp of Meadowbrook Facility Services shares his journey from being a facility manager of QSRs to creating Meadowbrook Solutions, a company that handles its own repairs and services. He emphasizes the importance of providing quality service, building trust, and adding value to the operators he works with. Joe also discusses his approach to creating content and networking on social media.TakeawaysOrganic growth can be achieved by providing quality service and build...

Chris Bunch joins the show! Chris is the VP of Commercial Facilities Services at PRIDE Industries. PRIDE helps private and public organizations achieve their operational goals while simultaneously providing career opportunities for people with disabilities. On this episode, Chris and I discuss the value of partnering with a service provider, the impact that PRIDE culture can bring to an organization, and the future talent gap in facilities management. If you're interest...

Sherry Perkins, President of the IFMA San Diego Chapter, is this weeks guest. Sherry has over 25 years in facilities management for both defense and biotech companies.On this episode, Sherry details the importance of Facilities Managers being the Marines of the built environment; adjusting, adapting, and overcoming any and all obstacles surrounding facilities. How can IFMA influence and help FMs navigate unforeseen circumstances?How can you prepare and adapt to these circumstances...

Stephen Burke, Facilities Manager and Emergency Planning Consultant, is this weeks guest! Stephen has over a decade of experience in emergency operations planning and drill development. As you'll see, he is clearly passionate about helping organizations build a culture of safety. On this episode, we dive into the importance of a proactive culture, and best practices in implementing emergency operations plans for schools.Enjoy!If you're interested in working with Stephen, con...

This weeks guest is Matthew Erwin, Director of Facilities for the North Syracuse Central School District. Matt has been in the educational space for over a decade, and is currently responsible for 11 different schools.On this episode, Matt dives into the challenges with managing educational facilities including:Best practices for managing vendors and preventive maintenance strategies Integrating custodial teams and technical teamsKPIs to follow closelyEnjoy!Interested in closing th...

James Kovacevic, Principal Instructor at Eruditio, joins the podcast to discuss the importance of a well designed PM program. James is a trainer, speaker, and consultant that specializes in bringing profitability, productivity, availability, and sustainability to manufacturers around the globe.Throughout his career, James has focused on providing the discipline and training needed to strengthen reliability, maintenance management, asset management, as well as strategy and implementation...

Danny Koontz leads the second part of our series on the maturation of a Facilities Management organization. This week, we focus on the evolution of vendor management within a facilities organization. Danny spent over 30 years helping Ruby Tuesday grow from a small multi-unit restaurant group to a nationally recognized brand with hundreds of locations. Through this growth, Danny experienced first hand the importance of vendor relationships as an organization matures.Danny has...

Taz Sutherland, Senior Facilities Manager at Walmart, joins the show as this weeks guest. Taz has 20+ years of experience heading various FM initiatives for Walmart. On this episode, Taz walks through the impact that a preventive maintenance program has on the overall maturation of the FM organization. How can one move from 'reactive' maintenance to 'proactive maintenance'? What impact does eliminating an existing preventive maintenance program have on the overall orga...

Our first ever spotlight is from our 6th episode with Carissa Kelly, Facility Operations Manager for Harvard Medical School. On this episode, Carissa discusses her journey getting into facilities management. Carissa has an incredible background and has earned her Bachelors in Facilities and Environmental Engineering, MBA, and Masters of Science in Facilities Management. Carissa also discusses her experience as a Facilities Manager as an African American, and the importance o...

Cindy Hermsen, CEO for Global Alliance of Facility Management Innovators, joins the show from Barcelona! The Global Alliance of FM Innovators is a membership-based platform that facilitates connections between facility managers and technology startups focused on the FM industry. On this episode, Cindy discusses the rapid change of technology for FMs, the impact technology can have on a facilities organization, and the importance of FMs viewing their department as an area for inves...

William Cowell de Gruchy joins the show from London. After 5 years in the British Army, Will wore the consulting hat and found inefficiencies in building management. Uncovering this problem, along with his passion for building sustainability, led Will to launch Infogrid, a smart building platform that uses IoT sensors and AI to automate and optimize facilities and building management. On this episode, we discuss cage fighting (!), healthy buildings, and the future of IOT te...

Clinton Fairbanks, founder and managing director of Soji REFM Advisory, discusses the future of Facilities Management and the impact of technology. TakeawaysBeing a Futurist in facilities management means continuously looking for ways to improve and innovate.The four pillars of technology in FM are software, hardware, AI automation, and innovation.Technology platforms in facilities management will rapidly improve in the next few years, with AI playing a significant role.Robotics can fill...

Martha Weidmann, Co-Founder and CEO of NINE dot ARTS, joins the show as this weeks guest. Martha and her team are art consultants and curators, creating art experiences around the world for the hospitality industry, mixed-use developments, municipalities, multi-family residential developments, and healthcare environments. NINE dot ARTS uses the power of original art to transform spaces into experiences, bridging the gap between arts and business.On this episode, Martha speaks to t...

Randy Olson from ProFMI is our guest on this weeks episode. The ProFMI Credential Program covers 24 core competencies and knowledge areas required of today's facility professionals.In 2021, ProFMI and Building Operating Management magazine conducted the first FM Training Outlook survey, receiving input from over 20 countries. In this episode, Randy discusses the importance of a standardized FM education, the core competencies desired by both management and individual contributors,...

This weeks guest is Sheetal Ohri. Sheetal has over 26 years of experience leading key growth initiatives within the restaurant and hospitality industries. She has worked with organizations across the globe including London, India, and the US. In her current position, Sheetal is responsible for managing over 140 locations across the West Coast.Enjoy! Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

This weeks guest is Keith Watkins. Keith has specialized in managing educational facilities and has earned numerous accolades along the way:SCSPMA Anthony A. Vicar AwardNSPMA Pat Cochrane Award2020 NSPMA Plant Manager of the YearNYSSFA Past PresidentNSPMA Past PresidentOn this episode, Keith dives into his involvement with various organizations, the value of certifications for FMs, and his responses to COVID-19. Enjoy!Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at ...

Derek Bacigal, recognized by IFMA's Forty Under 40 award, joins the show from Hawai'i! Derek currently serves in a handful of capacities including:Principal at Akamai Facilities Consulting LLCInstructor at University of Hawai‘iChair of Americas for International Facility Management Association - Young ProfessionalsDirector of Engineering, Hale Koa HotelPresident of the University of Hawai‘i West O‘ahu Facilities Management Academic Industry Advisory BoardDirector at Large on Hawaii Lodg...

Jim Zirbel, Co-Director of FM Pipeline, is this weeks guest. Over 50% of facilities professionals will be reaching retirement age within the next 5 - 7 years, leading to a HUGE need for talent in the industry. Jim has taken this problem head-on through the Facilithon program with FM Pipeline. Facilithon is a SkillsUSA competition that introduces high school and technical school students to careers in Facility Management.If you're interested in helping shape the new wave of F...

Carolyn McGary, the WonderWoman of Facility Management, joins the show as this weeks guest. Carolyn currently serves as the Chair, FM Pipeline & GWI Liaison for IFMA, and was awarded IFMA's Forty Under 40 award in 2020. Carolyn is also the Co-Director for the FM Pipeline Team, sharing the mission of ushering in the next generation of FMs.On this episode, Carolyn speaks to the standardization of FM education, her view on new, formalized FM programs launching, and her mission of...

I was introduced to Danny Koontz by being told that he is one of the greatest people to set foot in the facilities world. It was a tall order, but Danny exceeded my expectations.Danny has over 40 years of experience working in facilities, purchasing, and distribution. He spent over 30 years helping Ruby Tuesday grow from a small multi-unit restaurant group to a nationally recognized brand with hundreds of locations. Through this growth, Danny established facilities managemen...

Tom Czyz, a retired SWAT member and homicide detective, joins the show. Following the tragic events of the Sandy Hook shooting, Tom started Armoured One with a single mission: end the story of active shooter. Armoured One has created Shooter Attack Certified glass and film to make schools, colleges, and workplaces around America safer.On the show, Tom brings his expertise to highlight safety in schools, and measures that can be taken to become more efficient and safe. ...

Giselle Holder, Director of Facilities Management for Acuitas Caribbean, joins the podcast. Giselle has her Masters in Facilities Management, holds several certifications including IFMA's CFM and FMP, and was awarded IFMA's Forty Under 40 award in 2020. She was also one of the first Trinidad and Tobago based IFMA instructors in the IFMA FM Educational Programs - FMP and Essentials of FM.On this episode, we discuss two topics that Giselle is passionate about: Facility Condition Ass...

This weeks guest is Dr. Jake Smithwick, a professor at the University of North Carolina in Charlotte. Jake and his team have assisted hundreds of owners improve performance outcomes across thousands of projects ($15+ Billion of procured services in construction, IT, auxiliary services, design, healthcare, insurance, and more). His industry experience also includes field inspection of nearly 2,000 roofing systems (74 million square feet) across the United States, and six years in the US Air Fo...

James Kovacevic, Principal Instructor at Eruditio, joins the podcast to discuss the importance of a well designed PM program. James is a trainer, speaker, and consultant that specializes in bringing profitability, productivity, availability, and sustainability to manufacturers around the globe.Throughout his career, James has focused on providing the discipline and training needed to strengthen reliability, maintenance management, asset management, as well as strategy and implementation...

Wayne Beamish, Founder of Powerhouse Management Services, joins the show. Powerhouse launched as consultancy firm, and has expanded into a facility maintenance and data utility management company.On this episode, Wayne discusses:The outsourced FM modelThe importance of vendor relationshipsROI of preventive maintenance plansThe importance of asset tagging Enjoy!Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

Jason Callis, President of the IFMA Indianapolis Chapter, joins the show. Jason has been in corporate facilities for over 25 years, and currently services as a Facilities Project Manager with Goodwill. On this episode, Jason and I discuss:IFMA and the direction of the Indy Chapter His role with Goodwill and the impact of COVID on their 95 locationsChallenges and best practices for retail facilities management Enjoy!Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our fri...

On this special episode of TMFMP, we have Chris Sockriter (SoDel Concepts), Joe Sharp (Meadowbrook Restaurants), and Kevin Pollock (Dream Big Foods) for our first roundtable discussion. Chris, Joe, and Kevin all bring their own unique perspectives on the impact of COVID-19 on their restaurant groups, what it took to survive, and they look at where the industry is headed.Enjoy!Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

Mike Isted, MBE, joins the podcast from the UK. Mike walks us through his journey going from a career in the British Army, to a career in Facilities Management. In his current position with Train Together, Mike leads courses for individuals looking to enter the field of Facilities and Workplace Management. Enjoy! Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

Jon and Lit of BMOC return for the fourth and final installment of our four part mini series. This week, we uncover what the data collected in a CMMS can tell us. From maintenance history to change management, the guys from BMOC explain the full capabilities of a properly managed CMMS.For more information on BMOC, check out their website at www.BuildingMOC.comInterested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

Jon and Lit of BMOC return for the third installment of a four part mini series. This week, we introduce asset classification hierarchies and Jon's interpretation of UNIFORMAT II. We also uncover the role that clean data plays in designing a preventive maintenance strategy. For more information on BMOC, check out their website at www.BuildingMOC.comInterested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

Jon and Lit of BMOC return for the second installment of a four part mini series. This week, we introduce the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), and how it relates to the asset management program. What is the role of your CMMS? How can you set yourself up for success when using a CMMS?Tune in to find out!For more information on BMOC, check out their website at www.BuildingMOC.comInterested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

Jonathan Thomas and Doug Litwiller from Building Maintenance Optimization Consultants (BMOC) join the podcast for a 4 part mini series. Over the next 4 episodes, Jon and Lit discuss:The importance of asset managementIntroduction to CMMSIntroduction to an Asset Management ProgramThe relationship between a CMMS and the Asset Management ProgramBMOC specializes in supporting FM organizations such as institutions of higher education, K - 12, hospitals, government, and corporations. &nbs...

Ryan Rigley, Global Facilities Manager with Stella McCartney, is this weeks guest. Based out of London, Ryan provides his unique perspective on the impact of COVID on the world of retail, and facilities management in the UK. Enjoy!Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

Kevin Bee, the District's Operations Manager at Naperville 203, joins the show to share his journey in facilities management, and the importance of creating a culture that embraces change. Kevin started as a custodian and worked his way up, gaining experience in employee relations and eventually becoming a leader. He discusses the challenges of laying the foundation for a culture that embraces change, including the need for consistency and effective communication. Kevin also highlights t...

On this episode, I speak with Cheryl Galloway from Facilitron. Cheryl spent over 10 years working in operations for Gilroy Unified School District, specializing in emergency operations. Cheryl shares her experience preparing for emergency scenarios, which ultimately saved lives during an active shooter emergency, and discusses the importance of Facilities Managers in these events. Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

Jason is the Director of Facility Operations for North Mississippi Medical Center, and manages the flapship campus of N. Mississippi Health Services. In this episode, Jason and I dive into the nuances of FM in healthcare, the impact of COVID-19, and the relationships with PPE providers. Enjoy! Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

Rob Durr, Sr. Manager of Facilities for the Toronto Blue Jays, joins the show. Rob has over 15 years of experience and is actively involved with IFMA. After over 7 years in Building Maintenance at Columbus Regional Airport, Rob made the transition to managing operations at the Spring Training facilities for the Blue Jays.On this episode, we discuss Rob's formal training and application of his formal education, his transition between industries, and the strategies behind keeping ma...

Dan Santiago, Sr. Manager of Workplace Operations at Peloton, sits down to discuss his career in Facilities Management. Dan highlights his transition from residential, to commercial real estate, and the importance of a preventative maintenance plan.Enjoy! Interested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

Carissa Kelly, Facility Operations Manager for Harvard Medical School, sits down to discuss her journey getting into facilities management. Carissa, has a unique perspective after earning her Bachelors in Facilities and Environmental Engineering, MBA, and Masters of Science in Facilities Management. Carissa also discusses her experience as a Facilities Manager as an African American, and the importance of diversity in the industry. Enjoy! Interested in closing the skil...

For this episode, we sit down with Chris Martin of Finney Hospitality Group. Chris is responsible for Operations for Finney, and brings his 30+ years of hospitality expertise to the show.4:09 - The importance of asset management8:08 - Chris' view of preventative maintenance 17:15 - Using data to identify trends in R&M 25:00 - Inventory management and the impact on the customerInterested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

Bruce Teeter joins the show. Bruce managed operations for a 20,000 square foot non-profit, themed coworking space in Downtown DC. Bruce was responsible for heading technology projects, managing vendor relationships, and implementing improvements across the facility. 2:33 - Private vs. Non-profit Facilities Management4:35 - Technology in day to day operations9:00 - How is automation going to change Facilities Management?14:33 - Vendor management for a non-profit organizationI...

We sit down with James Meeks, Manager of Operations and Facilities at Atlanta Legal Aid Society. James tackles the impact that COVID has had on his role, gives his opinion on the future of Facilities Management, and provides insights into getting involved as a Facilities Manager. Make sure to click here to help Legal Aid Atlanta!2:52 - Differences between private and non-profit Facilities Management6:03 - Creative problem solving for non-profits12:52 - Facilities Management goes v...

Chris Sockriter of SoDel Concepts joins the show. After starting his career as an HVAC-R tech, Chris now serves as the Director of the Asset Management department for SoDel.3:15 - Facilities Management: Restaurant vs. Commercial 8:07 - Vendor Management13:40 - The future of vendor relationships27:30 - Education debate: trades vs. traditional schoolingInterested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

Today we speak to Luke Mashburn from the local MLS club, Atlanta United. Luke has worked at a variety of athletic facilities ranging from FCS to professional organizations. Enjoy! 5:38 - Getting into Facilities Management8:40 - Education recommendations for Facilities Managers13:19 - The power of networking16:28 - Future of Facilities Management18:58 - Ongoing educationInterested in closing the skills gap? Check out our friends at Interplay Learning!

Annmarie Bhola, Founder of Enhanced Building Solutions, joins the show as this weeks guest.Annmarie is a former plant operator with extensive knowledge in new construction and existing buildings. She focused primarily on MEP commissioning and energy efficient operations and brings 20+ years of industry experience to clients. On this episode, Griffin and Annmarie discuss the importance of standardizing training, and leveraging video content to document tribal knowledge.TakeawaysTraining a...

This episode features Alex Cummings, CEO of FlowPath, and Doug Donovan, CEO of Interplay Learning.Interplay Learning has developed cutting edge training technology for the essential skilled trades. Users are able to train and practice hands-on learning from any device or even in VR. The FlowPath team has created an industry leading CMMS, focused on simplicity and the user experience for Technicians in the field. Alex and Doug discuss the importance of using FM technology, like...

Lisa Keys, Founder of COS Consulting, joins the show to discuss Building Condition Assessments (BCAs) and their importance in facilities management. Lisa has 20 years of experience leading operational and facilities management teams within a diverse range of building portfolios in both the non-profit and public sector. On this episode, Lisa highlights the core concepts and components of a BCA, how an organization can leverage a BCA, and where one should begin with a BCA.TakeawaysBuilding...

In this episode, Rami Abdelhadi, Executive Director of Facilities Operations at Stanford University, discusses the challenges and strategies for talent acquisition and retention in the facilities management industry. He highlights the importance of apprenticeship programs and cross-training to build a strong pipeline of skilled professionals. Rami also emphasizes the role of facilities in supporting education and research, and the need for soft skills in career progression. TakeawaysAppr...