Dear GTC IFMA members,

We’re fortunate to live in an area in which the Facility Management profession is experiencing rapid growth. There are lots of workers that are relatively new to the Facility Management profession, as well as our more seasoned professionals, who both want and need to keep their skills current.

“The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn”. ~ Alvin Toffler

Isn’t that the truth?!  The IFMA GTC’s responsibility in times like these (or any time, really) is stated right there on our website “…to seek to serve as the ultimate resource and representative for the Facility Management profession”.

We fulfill that responsibility by providing a variety of educational opportunities. Our Professional Development Committee will soon be offering the final two Facility Management Professional (FMP) classes; our Golf Committee is planning the annual Mike Bradley Memorial Golf Tournament to fund scholarships for students studying Facility Management-related degree programs; and our Global Workforce Initiative (GWI) Committee is working with IFMA National on specific ways we can provide pathways to Facility Management careers in NC.

On a smaller scale, our Chapter offers several informational presentations each year and coordinates tours of new and renovated buildings featuring the newest construction technology. At least once a year, we offer a “Professionals Only” program to highlight timely Facility Management-related issues and solutions.  We offer an IFMA GTC orientation session (the next one is scheduled for March 6) to help new members navigate their way around our organization and make educated decisions on which committee may best serve their interests.  That’s reinforced by an annual “Committee Fair” to provide even more detail on volunteer opportunities.  It’s a great way to get to know fellow IFMA GTC members.

Do you know a fellow Facility Manager that would benefit from our educational opportunities and support?  As an Associate Member, have you recently met a Facility Manager that you feel could benefit from being a Professional Member of the IFMA GTC?  In either case, invite them to one of our luncheon meetings…it’s free the first time.  We think they’d like what they see and hear, as well as who they meet there!

Cris Karasek
President 2018-2019