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Careers aren’t always linear. Sometimes, the path forward includes finding your way back. In our Comeback Stories series, we spotlight employees who returned to The Building People and share what inspired them to come back.
In this edition, we’re featuring Joseph (Joe) Worman, Support Specialist, who went from being a summer intern to a full-time employee at The Building People. In this Q&A, Joe shares what first drew him to TBP, the experiences he gained while interning with us, and what ultimately led him to begin his full-time career at The Building People.
Let’s start with you—what’s your role at TBP and what does your day-to-day look like?My role at The Building People is a mix of system support, analysis, and development, all centered around Archibus. Because of that, my day-to-day can vary quite a bit depending on project needs.
On the support side, I help troubleshoot and resolve user issues, making sure systems are running smoothly. I also work as a system analyst—investigating problems, identifying root causes, and translating those into clear requirements or tickets for developers. Part of my role includes testing enhancements and validating that new features work as expected before they’re rolled out.
I’ve also taken on development-focused work, primarily writing SQL queries and, more recently, helping build a web application with full data integration. In addition, I work with AutoCAD to manage drawings—handling tasks like creating polylines and cataloging data to ensure it aligns correctly within Archibus.
Overall, my role sits at the intersection of support, analysis, and development, which allows me to contribute across multiple parts of a project and help bridge the gap between technical teams and end users.
What originally brought you to TBP the first time around?At the time, I was finishing up college and actively looking for an opportunity to get started in my career. Someone from The Building People reached out to me about an internship, and I later learned I had been referred, which helped open the door.
You spent some time away—what were you up to during that chapter?My time away was pretty brief. I went from intern to full-time in about a week. During that “time off,” I squeezed in some woodworking, got a few workouts in, and spent some time fishing before jumping right back in.
What sparked the idea (or decision) to come back?Since my time away was so short, the decision to come back was really a continuation of my internship experience. During that time, I had the chance to connect with people across The Building People in a few different ways—whether through team meetings with both the Smart Buildings and Tech teams or even more casual settings like a company baseball game.
Those interactions gave me a better sense of the people and the overall culture, and it stood out how much everyone genuinely enjoyed the work they were doing. At the same time, seeing the wide variety of work I could be involved in made the opportunity even more appealing.
Altogether, it made the decision to come back full-time an easy one.
Now that you’re back, what has stood out to you the most?Pictured: Joe Playing Soccer with His Niece, PaisleyWhat has stood out to me the most is the people. On the projects I’ve worked on, everyone is always willing to take the time to help each other, even if it means pausing what they’re working on. There’s a real sense of team camaraderie, and that mindset is contagious.
What’s been your favorite part about being back so far?My favorite part has been the variety of work I’ve been able to take on. When I first started, my goal was to try as many different areas as possible to better understand what I want to do long-term, and I’ve been given that opportunity.
From support and analysis to development and working with tools like Archibus and AutoCAD, I’ve been able to explore a wide range of work. That kind of exposure has been incredibly valuable.
For someone who’s never worked here, how would you describe TBP and the culture?I’d describe The Building People as very team-oriented and supportive. People are always willing to help each other out, which makes a big difference day-to-day. There’s also a lot of variety in the work, so it’s a great place to learn, try different things, and figure out what you’re interested in long-term.
Three words to describe TBP:Collaborative, Driven, Dynamic.
The post Comeback Stories Series: Joseph Worman first appeared on The Building People.
At The Building People, our people are at the center of everything we do. In this month’s Employee Spotlight Q&A, we’re excited to introduce Edel Mobley, CAD Drafter/Specialist.
Learn more about Edel’s background and role below:
What is your professional background?I have been an architectural project designer/manager for over thirty years. I started my career in 1989 designing custom homes in Hilton Head Island, SC. Since then, I have worked for a few local architectural/engineering firms in Columbia, SC designing hospitals, medical office buildings, schools, retail offices, and federal government facilities. I have worked for the 81st Readiness Division since 2010, designing numerous Army Reserve training centers. I have also been involved in construction inspections for numerous MILCON projects and renovation projects.
What is your role at The Building People?Architectural and construction technical support/CAD drafter.
Can you tell us about the work you do at The Building People?I maintain and update the CAD files and maps for the 81st Readiness Division. I also design numerous Army Reserve facilities, provide design review, and provide construction inspections for numerous MILCON projects.
My wife, Elizabeth, and I recently celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary in Hilton Head Island, our favorite beach and biking destinationWhat do you like most about working in your role?I love the respect that I have here and knowing that my specialized expertise has been a great benefit.
How do you define success?Success is the ability to work with people as a team player. It is giving all that you have, and always learning from others. The main goal is helping others to become better.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?To continue to be better each day and always helping others. Positivity and giving are the best learning experiences.What is a fun fact about you people might not know?My dad was a captain with the Army Air Corps during WWII. My hobbies are landscaping and biking.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?Always help others and smile.What is the accomplishment you are most proud of to date?Designed a recent Army Reserve training center in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico.The post Employee Spotlight Q&A: Edel Mobley first appeared on The Building People.
Careers aren’t always linear. Sometimes, the path forward includes finding your way back. In our Comeback Stories series, we spotlight employees who returned to The Building People and share what inspired them to come back.
In this edition, we’re featuring Mike Bowman, Senior Strategic Capture Manager, who returned to The Building People after spending time away. In this Q&A, Mike shares what first drew him to TBP, the experiences he gained while exploring new opportunities, and what ultimately led him back.
Let’s start with you—what’s your role at TBP and what does your day-to-day look like?I’m a Senior Strategic Capture Manager at The Building People. On a day-to-day basis, I evaluate opportunities across our Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) business line, engage with partners on potential pursuits, and help position the company to be competitive. I also lead targeted capture efforts, working closely with stakeholders in delivery, pricing, and proposals to shape and execute winning strategies.
What originally brought you to TBP the first time around?I was initially drawn to The Building People because of its leadership, clear vision, and strong culture. What’s been most impressive is how much of that core identity has stayed intact over the years.
You spent some time away—what were you up to during that chapter?I spent about five years at Deloitte Consulting, where I managed large-scale, strategic pursuits for their commercial practice. My work primarily focused on technology consulting engagements for Fortune 500 clients, though both the service offerings and client industries varied widely. It was a great environment to learn and gain exposure across many areas, and it played a meaningful role in expanding and strengthening my skill set.
What did you enjoy or learn most from that experience?What I enjoyed most was learning how Fortune 500 companies buy large-scale services. In many ways, the process wasn’t all that different from how the federal government approaches procurement, but there was significantly more flexibility. That allowed for more creativity in how we positioned solutions and presented information, and I enjoyed thinking outside the box about how to best tell our story and sell our value.
While you were away, was there anything you found yourself missing about TBP?I built strong relationships with the team during my first time at TBP, and I genuinely missed that while I was away. This is a special place. It is full of people who show up with purpose and a real commitment to one another. I missed the culture, the camaraderie, and the feeling that the work I was doing truly made an impact.
What sparked the idea (or decision) to come back?I had always stayed in touch with Lawrence Melton, occasionally exchanging text messages, and I continued to follow TBP’s growth closely. This is an exciting place to work. There aren’t many opportunities to join a company at this stage of maturity with such a bright future ahead. Ultimately, after reconnecting with Lawrence, Shawn Morgal, Frank Santella, Jamie Kerner, Saima Malik, and others, it was clear to me that this was where I wanted to be.
Now that you’re back, what has stood out to you the most?What’s stood out most is that the growth hasn’t slowed down at all. The future feels incredibly promising, and we have a team of dedicated, talented people who truly care about what they’re building together.
What’s been your favorite part about being back so far?One of my favorite parts of being back has been watching the growth and development of our younger employees and the next generation of leaders. The experiences they’re gaining and the mentorship they’re receiving have honestly made me a little envious. The Building People does an exceptional job of developing young talent and giving people a strong foundation for success, no matter where their career path ultimately leads.
For someone who’s never worked here, how would you describe TBP and the culture?This is a place where people are deeply committed to one another and to excellence, transparency, and winning the right way. The culture is grounded in trust, accountability, and a shared drive to do meaningful work while supporting each other along the way.
Three words to describe TBP:Driven, dedicated, and collaborative.
The post Comeback Stories Series: Mike Bowman first appeared on The Building People.
At The Building People, our people are at the center of everything we do. In this month’s Employee Spotlight Q&A, we’re excited to introduce Jilmar “JP” Peña, Project Manager.
Learn more about JP’s background and role below:
What is your professional background?I recently retired after 20 years as a Navy Chief (engineering). I had a big mix of experiences in the Navy, primarily AC&R (HVAC), hydraulics, reverse osmosis, and engines (gas and diesel). I also spent 7 of those years in recruiting, 3 years as a Master Training Specialist teaching engineering courses, and served as an Equal Opportunity Officer and QA Inspector. I would say I am most comfortable and confident in leading and creating.
What is your role at The Building People?Project Manager.
Can you tell us about the work you do at The Building People?I manage site jobs by providing surveys, logistical support, and ensuring completion in accordance with contract guidelines. I am currently working in GSA Region 9 and supporting a couple of other government contracts.
What do you like most about working in your role?Leaving the service after 20 years, I didn’t want just a job; I wanted a career, but also one that gave me that “team/family” feeling that I miss from being in service. Here at TBP, I feel like I found all of that.
How do you define success?It’s more than just job completion; it’s about the learning and growth during the process. Every job, task, or contract should not just be something you do or did; it should be an experience in which you learn or grow personally or professionally.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?Learn stocks, trading and investing.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?I have lived on 4 continents and visited approximately 37 countries.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart” – Nelson MandelaWhat’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?The most important thing in leadership is the “WHY.” It should never be, “Because I told you so.” If you explain the why, it empowers others to take ownership of their role in the process and helps them see how they fit into the bigger picture.What is the accomplishment you are most proud of to date?Retirement from the Navy after 20 years and getting my bachelor’s degree.JP enjoys fishing in his free timeJP loves customizing his Slingshot and going on long ridesThe post Employee Spotlight Q&A: Jilmar “JP” Peña first appeared on The Building People.
At The Building People, our people are at the center of everything we do. In this month’s Employee Spotlight Q&A, we’re excited to introduce Tim Becker, Associate Director of Proposals.
Learn more about Tim’s background and role below:
What is your professional background?I have over 20 years of experience managing and producing compelling, winning proposals for the Department of Defense, federal/civil agencies, and commercial customers. I provide end-to-end business development services, including capture planning, business analytics, proposal process development, proposal management, and corporate branding. I am a high-performing business leader who develops streamlined proposal management processes, templates, and tools that support efficient, ISO-certified BD procedures for several companies that have exceeded organizational goals and objectives. I also help design, implement, and manage BD SharePoint sites to organize, capture, migrate, and query relevant proposal content and documents. Through this work, I enable IT organizations to achieve higher win rates, realize cost efficiencies, and diversify revenue streams.
What is your role at The Building People?Associate Director of Proposals.
Can you tell us about the work you do at The Building People?I provide leadership for end-to-end business development services, including capture planning, business analytics, proposal process development, proposal management, and corporate branding.
What do you like most about working in your role?Working closely with groups of hard-working, dedicated individuals to win acquisitions that provide unmatched value to our customers.
How do you define success?Win, win, win proposals! Let’s go!
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?I’d love to learn to play the guitar.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?I grew up swimming for a national team, as well as my summer Northern Virginia Swim League (NVSL) team, and I was Captain of my high school swim team for two years. I love being in the water!
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?“Live simply so others may simply live.” – Mother TeresaWhat’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?“You can do anything you put your mind to, no matter what other people tell you.” – Joanne Becker
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of to date?Making 50 laps around the sun and still have a strong faith, a loving family, an amazing job, a place to call home, and people who support me. I am truly blessed.My family at a Brambleton Bettas swim meet.The post Employee Spotlight Q&A: Tim Becker first appeared on The Building People.
At The Building People, our people are at the center of everything we do. In this month’s Employee Spotlight Q&A, we’re excited to introduce Christine Abod, Director of Occupier Services.
Learn more about Christine’s background and role below:
What is your professional background?30 years in the federal government, where I gained hands‑on experience managing real estate in complex, mission‑driven environments. Leading teams responsible for large, sophisticated facilities required balancing operational demands, regulatory requirements, and long‑term portfolio objectives. Managing expansive campus environments reinforced the importance of integrated operations, strong portfolio management, and continuous optimization in creating efficient, high‑performing workplaces. I now bring that perspective forward, translating government‑sector rigor and scale into practical, value‑driven solutions for the commercial sector.
What is your role at The Building People?Director of Occupier Services.
Can you tell us about the work you do at The Building People?As Director of Occupier Services, I lead a multidisciplinary team focused on helping clients maximize the value of their real estate portfolios by aligning how space is planned, utilized, and managed with organizational performance and mission outcomes. My work focuses on aligning federal priorities and delivering customer experience that exceeds expectations.What do you like most about working in your role?What I enjoy most is the opportunity to build strong, trusted relationships with clients and team members, partnering closely to navigate change and create workplace solutions that are practical, effective and aligned with business needs.
How do you define success?I define success as clients feeling supported, understood and confident in their workplace decisions and knowing our team helped make that possible.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?I’ve always wanted to learn multiple languages so I can better connect with the people I meet when I travel.
What is a fun fact about you that people might not know?One of my favorite books is The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?“The only real failure is giving up.” – John WoodenWhat’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?To be honest with customers and bring them in early when problems arise. Bad news doesn’t get better with time.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of to date?My four kids have to be my proudest accomplishment. A close second would be the fact I’m a millionaire in Animal Crossing!
Christine’s Family Portrait in Animal Crossing
The post Employee Spotlight Q&A: Christine Abod first appeared on The Building People.
At The Building People, our people are at the center of everything we do. In this month’s Employee Spotlight Q&A, we’re excited to introduce Mathew Molfetta, Senior Recruiter.
Learn more about Mat’s background and role below:
What is your professional background?I began my career in residential property management for a small LLC, overseeing single and small multi-family rentals in the Long Island/NYC area. After earning my Bachelor’s in Business Management, I transitioned into recruiting for the facilities management and construction industries, where I’ve spent the past eight years. In April, I’ll have been with the building people for 4 years.
What is your role at The Building People?At TBP I am a Senior Recruiter.
Can you tell us about the work you do at The Building People?As a Senior Recruiter at TBP, I manage staffing for our Facilities Management and O&M divisions. I work closely with project managers across our operational sites to ensure we hire top talent and maintain the high performance our customers have come to expect.What do you like most about working in your role?What I love about my role is that it allows me to do what I do best–connect with new people every day. Each conversation gives me the opportunity to learn something new and continue growing both personally and professionally.
How do you define success?To me, success is about collective achievement and perseverance. It’s not just reaching a goal, but how you and your team get there by supporting one another, adapting through challenges, and staying determined even when things get tough.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?Fly a plane.
What is a fun fact about you that people might not know?In my younger years, I aspired to pursue a career in music performance. I played drums and percussion throughout high school and later performed with the New York Youth Symphony–one of the top youth orchestras in the country. That experience gave me the incredible opportunity to play at renowned venues, including Carnegie Hall.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?“Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.” – Henry FordWhat’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?Don’t take life too seriously.What is the accomplishment you are most proud of to date?Starting a family last year and welcoming my beautiful daughter Leila Molfetta into the world!
Nothing better than family!
The post Employee Spotlight Q&A: Mathew Molfetta first appeared on The Building People.
At The Building People, our people are at the center of everything we do. In this month’s Employee Spotlight Q&A, we’re excited to introduce Zachary Hill, Facilities Operations Manager.
Learn more about Zachary’s background and role below:
What is your professional background?I have spent the last 13 years in the Army Reserve as a CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear) Specialist. I have served in many roles, and most recently I served as a CBRN instructor. I have also had several additional duties that allowed to to branch out and following drastically different paths. One to note is serving as a Facility Coordinator for 3 years. This additional duty allowed me to gain valuable skills that ultimately led to to my current position with TBP!
What is your role at The Building People?I currently serve as a Facilities Operations Manager/Lead AFOS.
Can you tell us about the work you do at The Building People?I support the 63rd DPW mission in Region 1 (Arkansas/Oklahoma). My work consists of traveling to facilities within the region to ensure all facilities remain in great shape and all tenants know who to reach out to in case of an issue. I work closely with the customer to ensure operations flow seamlessly and I always look for ways to streamline processes.What do you like most about working in your role?I like being able to get out and see the people who work in our facilities. I know we have an excellent team in Region 1, but sometimes getting out and talking to those who work in our buildings allows me to explain processes that they may not understand. I love being able to educate and provide reassurance.
How do you define success?I think success is a personal metric that can be hard to reach at times. To me, success is more of a never ending journey. As long as I make an impact with my work, provide for my family, and have time to spend doing thing that I enjoy, I would say that I am successful.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?Definitely learn to play the banjo! I think it is such a cool and timeless instrument, and I love the old school sound.
What is a fun fact about you that people might not know?I am a huge dog lover. I currently have a Corgi named Daisy who is just like a third child to me. When I retire one day I would love to open a dog ranch. I would be able to take in injured or abandoned dogs and give them the life they deserve.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care”-John MaxwellWhat’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?Take the leap and do the hard things. If you are afraid to fail to may never succeed. This is one that can still be intimidating, but it has got me to where I am today.What is the accomplishment you are most proud of to date?My proudest accomplishment is graduating with my Master of Science in Operation Management from the University of Arkansas. Neither of my parents attended college, but they always pushed to get an education. It was challenging to find the balance between my full time career, military duties, raising a family, and completing course work, but I persevered and became a first generation college graduate.
Me, my wife Mackenzie, and our two sons, Heath and Hudson.
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Lawrence A. Melton, CEO & President of The Building People, was featured on iHeartRadio’s “CEOs You Should Know” on 97.1 WASH-FM to discuss leadership and innovation in facilities.
In the conversation, Lawrence reflects on how he got his start, the experiences that shaped his leadership style, and the moments of timing and opportunity that helped set the course for what came next. He also shares what inspired him to launch The Building People, and why he remains passionate about advancing the industry, bringing innovation to facilities, and helping people grow along the way.
Since founding The Building People in 2013, Lawrence has focused the company on a simple but powerful idea: connect technology, buildings, and people to help clients improve performance and make smarter decisions across the built environment.
Whether you’re interested in leadership lessons, entrepreneurship, or the future of facilities, this interview is a great listen and a meaningful look into the purpose behind our work.
Listen to the full interview here.
The post Lawrence A. Melton Featured on iHeartRadio’s “CEOs You Should Know” first appeared on The Building People.
At The Building People, our people are at the center of everything we do. In this month’s Employee Spotlight Q&A, we’re excited to introduce Kimberly Bianco, People Strategy Lead.
Learn more about Kimberly’s background and role below:
What is your professional background?Before joining TBP, I spent most of my career at the Federal Reserve Board, where I led programs focused on strategic planning, workforce development, and organizational effectiveness. I also managed communications and change initiatives to ensure these programs were implemented thoughtfully and successfully. My portfolio covered key people-focused priorities—such as engagement, performance management, leadership development, and career growth—with the goal of ensuring employees had the systems, processes, and support they needed to do their jobs well and enjoy their work.
What is your role at The Building People?I am the People Strategy Lead on our Human Capital team.
Can you tell us about the work you do at The Building People?I’ll be partnering with senior leaders to design and scale people strategies that strengthen our culture, support career development, and empower employees to do their best work. We have a number of exciting initiatives underway to align our human capital strategy with TBP’s Vivid Vision in the months and years ahead. I’ll be working closely with the broader human capital team to enhance areas like performance management, career pathing, training, employee engagement, and more!
What do you like most about working in your role?I really love that I’m encouraged and given the opportunity to design innovative, people-focused solutions that strengthen our culture and support our employees’ success. The kindness and support from folks all over TBP make this type of work especially fulfilling and even more rewarding!
How do you define success?I think it’s a beautiful thing to be able to do what you love, with those you love, whenever you want—whatever that looks like for you. I don’t think there’s one big milestone that would make me think, “I am successful now!” especially because my goals and aspirations are constantly evolving as I reach various points in my life. Ultimately, I want to find joy in my work, spend intentional time with the humans (and dogs) that make my life brighter, immerse myself in cultures around the globe, and leave the world a better place. And purchase front row seats to Taylor Swift concerts anywhere in the world, anytime I want, every time she tours.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?I’d love to become fluent in another language!
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?Both of my parents passed away when they were pretty young, and very unexpectedly (this is not the fun fact, but it gives context!). After my dad passed a few years ago, I made a promise to myself to enjoy life to the absolute fullest because tomorrow is never promised. To that end, I made a goal to visit at least one new country every year. So far, I’ve been to Italy (2x), Mexico, Canada (2x), Scotland, England, Greece, Jamaica, Spain, and Portugal! My husband and I are currently plotting next year’s trip…
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?“Seek first to understand, then to be understood.” – Stephen Covey, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective PeopleWhat’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?“Create a great day!” One of my undergrad professors didn’t just say this, he lived it, and encouraged us to live it too. Instead of the usual “Have a great day,” this phrasing puts the power entirely in our hands. It reminds me that we can’t just hope for a good day or a good life—we have to actively create it. Every choice, every small action, every attitude shapes the environment and experiences we live in. For me, it’s a daily reminder to take ownership, focus on what matters, and make each day count.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of to date?Professionally: I’m most proud of the long-term impact I left at the Fed. I built systems and processes that strengthened culture and supported employees across the organization, many of which are still in place. Knowing that the work continues to create value after my departure is incredibly meaningful to me.Personally: Although not a specific accomplishment, I would say that I’m proudest of learning how to stay resilient through whatever comes my way. Various personal and professional challenges have shown me how capable I am, and that perseverance has guided me through every meaningful milestone and accomplishment in my life.Kimberly with her husband, Clay, and puppies, Auggie (black dog) and Leo (brown dog)
The post Employee Spotlight Q&A: Kimberly Bianco first appeared on The Building People.
At The Building People, our people are at the center of everything we do. In this month’s Employee Spotlight Q&A, we’re excited to introduce you to McKenna Hayes, Jr. HR Generalist. From supporting internal communications to driving HR processes, McKenna plays a vital role in shaping the employee experience and company culture at TBP.
Learn more about McKenna’s background and role below:
What is your professional background?Before joining The Building People, my background was in real estate as a Listing & Marketing Coordinator.
What is your role at TBP?I’m currently a Jr. HR Generalist.
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?My work focuses on internal communications and HR processes. That includes everything from employee relations to supporting compliance and influencing company culture.
What do you like most about working in your role?The variety and impact it offers. I love that the position allows me to work across multiple areas of HR whether it’s employee relations, culture, or compliance. Every day looks a little different.
How do you define success?Success means achieving your goals and continuing to push yourself to be the best version of you.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?I’d love to learn how to speak a different language.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?I have a 3-year-old French Bulldog named Waylyn. 🐾
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” – Theodore Roosevelt
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?Learn to be comfortable with being uncomfortable that’s where growth happens.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of to date?Moving back to my hometown and starting a brand new journey. It feels like the start of a better chapter for myself.
Work-life Balance – My dog Waylyn & Traveling
The post Employee Spotlight Q&A: McKenna Hayes first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Bryn Leichty, Senior Interior Designer at The Building People and an integral member of our Real Estate & Workplace Team.
Learn more about Bryn’s background and role below:
What is your professional background?I have 12 years of experience spanning residential, commercial, and luxury motor coach design.
What is your role at The Building People?I am a Senior Interior Designer.
Can you tell us about the work you do at The Building People?I work on the U.S. Patent and Trademarks Office contract. I work with the team on the client’s design and space planning needs. Some days I may walk spaces on campus for site survey and furniture verification. Other days I may be working on CAD drawings to show how a space can be converted to better suit client needs, or updating floor plans in their workplace management system.
What do you like most about working in your role?I like that I’m never just doing one thing. I enjoy the variety of tasks I work on, knowing that each week will likely be different from the last.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?I can never get enough of music and books, (usually fantasy, sci-fi, horror), and I incorporate both into my daily life. If I’m not reading, at book club, or exploring a book store, I’m probably at a concert, pestering friends to listen to my favorite album/playlist of the week, or trying to book a concert cruise.
How do you define success?To me, success is continuing to learn new things and striving to be a better version of myself than I was the day before. You only fail by giving up, so as long as I push myself to grow towards my goals, I consider myself successful.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?I would love to be able to learn languages quickly and fluently. I love traveling and listening to music from all over the world, so it would be nice to communicate and understand more readily.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?“Let go of who you think you’re supposed to be; embrace who you are.” – Brené Brown
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?When life gets overwhelming, spend time in nature.
What is the accomplishment you are proudest of to date?I followed in my grandpa’s footsteps and became an interior designer. I’ve known that’s what I wanted to do since I was in elementary school and saw what he did!
This is from my trip driving up the Oregon Coast to Washington with my best friend! A much needed nature escape.The post Employee Spotlight Q&A: Bryn Leichty first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Steven Hazen, a Senior Engineer at The Building People! He is a key member of our Project Management and Engineering Team.
Here is more from Steven about his background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
I started as a field service technician with Liebert, maintaining high-voltage battery backup systems in critical facilities. I was then a data center engineer for US Bank, Oracle, and USDA, supporting the critical electrical and mechanical infrastructure.
What is your role at TBP?
Senior Engineer, supporting National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Weather Service.
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
I manage the HVAC systems for 38 weather forecast offices and their associated radar sites in the 14-state NWS central region. This entails managing new geothermal system installations, coordinating maintenance and repairs, and managing the building automation systems across the region.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?
I’m an avid golfer. I introduced the game to my 3 sons and quickly became the 3rd best golfer in my household, soon to be 4th.
What do you like most about working in your role?
The critical nature of the work. Ensuring the radars and weather forecast offices remain operational carries weight in the decisions that must be made.
How do you define success?
Playing 18 holes with the same ball.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
Base jump in a wingsuit, or fly a plane.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“Experience is something you don’t get until just after you need it.”
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Make the first time you do something the last time anyone has to.
What is the accomplishment you are proudest of to date?
Building the house that we currently live in. It was a mental and physical grind while working full time, but worth it.
Hazen Family, Easter 2024The post Employee Q&A: Steven Hazen first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Robert Burson, a Senior Engineer at The Building People! He is a key member of our Project Management and Engineering Team.
Here is more from Robert about his background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
I have about 35 years of experience working on building upgrades design and construction, satellite development and operations, and software development and testing projects as a project manager, engineer, software developer, configuration manager, and technical writer.
What is your role at TBP?
I support a NOAA NESDIS contract to provide technical support for the Facilities Management Branch (FMB), which cares for numerous NESDIS facilities. The main four include the NOAA Satellite Operations Facility (NSOF), the Consolidated Backup (CBU), the Fairbanks Command and Data Acquisition Station (FCDAS), and the Wallops Command and Data Acquisition Station (FCDAS).Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?I’m stationed at NSOF in Suitland, MD. I coordinate with GSA, FMB, and OSPO (the tenant) for data center management, which includes power and configuration management, as well as general facility maintenance. For FMB, I develop a lot of Smartsheet tools, which includes a Project Forecast List (PFL) that maintains the acquisition status, forecast costs, and history of all FMB projects. And also the Budget Execution Tracking (BET) sheet that maintains the FMB project budget, actual costs, and monthly variance. I also write a lot of documentation, from detailed technical infrastructure documents for each of the aforementioned sites to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and guidance documents for FMB processes.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?
I do cross-stitch as a hobby.
What do you like most about working in your role?
The work I do for NESDIS has a lot of variety and uses all my best skills. I meet a wide variety of people with different backgrounds and have learned a lot from them.
How do you define success?
Have expectations for the assigned task been set, met, and exceeded?
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I enjoy reading history books, particularly the collapse of bronze-age Mediterranean cultures and the subsequent development of steel.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“The one who dies with the most toys never learned how to share.” Unknown.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Little things, seemingly irrelevant, may be the most important, and if left unresolved could lead to an unnecessary emergency.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
Most recently, developing and documenting the PFL and BET, as well as an acquisition development tracker, which all have a major impact on FMB project management processes. Previously, design and construction projects for phased upgrade of the NSOF infrastructure, including the generators, UPS modules, chillers, cooling towers, and data center power and cooling, without halting either data center or satellite operations within the facility.
A few of Robert’s cross-stitches!The post Employee Q&A: Robert Burson first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Alice Allred, a Procurement Specialist at The Building People! She is a key member of our Mission Support Team.
Here is more from Alice about her background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
In the last ten years, I have worked for the Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office as the Comptroller and the National Center for State Courts as a Program Specialist (grant management).
What is your role at TBP?
Grant Project Monitor aka Procurement Specialist III.Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
I am part of the GDO 10 (Grid Deployment Office) team for the Department of Energy. At this time, I review the application budgets and supporting documents for the 247 Incentive Program.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?
I am a little bit of a Star Wars nerd. I attended the GalaxyCon in Richmond in March and got to meet the actor who portrayed Emperor Palpatine. Recently, I went to Tidewater Con and met Ray Park, who portrays Darth Maul.
What do you like most about working in your role?
I like knowing that we are promoting hydroelectric energy improvements.
How do you define success?
Success is having a healthy balance between work and family.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I would love to learn to speak Tagalog. My family is from the Philippines. My parents stopped teaching us their native language when I was in kindergarten so we could assimilate.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“May the force be with you.”
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Put your own oxygen mask first. You can’t take care of others if you don’t take care of yourself.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
My son who had an IEP and ADHD graduated high school with honors. I am a single parent. He is the younger of my two children. His sister and I ugly-cried when he got his diploma.
The post Employee Q&A: Alice Allred first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Zoe Madsen, a Technical Writer at The Building People! She is a key member of our Smart Buildings Team.
Here is more from Zoe about her background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
I attended Lehigh University, where I studied Earth and Environmental Sciences and Environmental Engineering. My previous role was at an environmental consulting firm. I had the opportunity to work on a variety of projects in the real estate, litigation, and insurance sectors. I spent a great deal of time on site remediation projects, where I worked both in the field and in the office.
What is your role at TBP?
I work as a Technical Writer on the Smart Buildings Team.Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
A typical day for me is spent writing, proofreading, and copy-editing reports. I get to pair my passion for language with my educational background. It really is the best.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?
I used to be a chemistry major.
What do you like most about working in your role?
I enjoy how meticulous technical writing and editing is. I also work with great people!
How do you define success?
I define success as leaving something better off than how you found it.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I would learn how to play the cello.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“Don’t let the fear of the time it will take to accomplish something stand in the way of your doing it. The time will pass anyway.” – Earl Nightingale
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
I once heard “while it might not happen on your time, it will be on time”. I think about this when I need a reminder that what is meant for me will come to me when the timing is right. I believe patience and optimism will lead you to the right place.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
I am proud of myself for switching careers. It can be intimidating to leave your first job, especially as someone who is not a huge risk-taker. I know what my passions are, and I made a commitment to myself to find the right role for me, despite the fear surrounding a career transition. I am grateful to have landed here at TBP!
Zoe at her college graduation with her parents!The post Employee Q&A: Zoe Madsen first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Jeff Gehring, a Senior Program Manager at The Building People! He is a key member of our Facilities Team.
Here is more from Jeff about his background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
Facilities Management and Engineering.
What is your role at TBP?
I am a Senior Program Manager in the facilities division.Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
I oversee Facilities Management and Operations & Maintenance projects at the corporate level.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?
I have a green thumb.
What do you like most about working in your role?
I really enjoy working with all of my colleagues in corporate and shared services. I am fortunate to get to work with a lot of great people.
How do you define success?
Achieving your goals and being happy while doing so.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
Fly a plane.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.” – Thomas Edison.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Go back to school. It changed my trajectory and opened a lot of doors for me.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
Maintaining my faith and my family.
Jeff at “Superstition Mountain”.The post Employee Q&A: Jeff Gehring first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Tyler Synan, a Construction Cost Estimator and Planner at The Building People! He is a key member of our Real Estate and Workplace Team.
Here is more from Tyler about his background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
I am a former corporate security manager who has found a new career in construction cost estimating and planning.
What is your role at TBP?
I am a construction cost estimator and planner.Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
After reviewing documents provided by the client, I provide construction cost and planning estimates as well as value engineering and alternative plans back to the client for review. These estimates can be used to determine budgets, acquire funding and justify expenditure.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?
I enjoy photography, riding my motorcycle and occasionally drawing.
What do you like most about working in your role?
Every estimate is like a mystery to solve. Some are more challenging than others, but finishing each one feels rewarding.
How do you define success?
I believe success is unique to every individual, and for me it’s feeling confident that the job I’m doing is valued and truly needed. I look forward to completing projects knowing I had a hand in something that will be appreciated long after I’m gone.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I think at some point I’d like to earn a pilot’s license.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“There’s no way to describe what I do. It’s just me.” – Andy Kaufman
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
I was told once that you just can’t plan for everything, and that’s why it’s good to remain flexible and leave room in your plans for the unknown. Very straight forward, but I try to incorporate this logic in everything I do.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
I think having a successful career in my 20s and then starting over with a completely new career path later in life is a massive accomplishment for someone like me.
Tyler enjoying the Oregon coast with his niece.The post Employee Q&A: Tyler Synan first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Thomas Quick, the Information Technology Manager at The Building People! He is a key member of our Operations Team.
Here is more from Tommy about his background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
Information Technology
What is your role at TBP?
I’m the IT Manager at The Building People.
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
I oversee our internal IT department. That includes a wide array of things, but mainly our cyber security and IT compliance. All of our corporate IT systems, and all major internal IT-related projects. This has included projects such as migrating TBP from an on-premise network to Microsoft 365 and being mainly a cloud-based company.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?
My uncle is one of the Five Guys.
What do you like most about working in your role?
The thing I like the most about working in this role is being able to enhance the company’s IT systems. We try to make the day-to-day easier for our employees as an internal IT team and I love being able to lead these efforts.
How do you define success?
Success is not defined by money, but more by happiness. If you are happy to go to work every day and enjoy what you do, then to me, that is success.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
To make music in any manner. I love music and going to concerts, but I am extremely musically challenged when it comes to actually making music.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?
I have never been a fan of inspirational quotes for some reason.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
“Don’t ever feel entitled to anything. Remember to always work hard. Don’t procrastinate. Don’t expect others to do your job. Understand that you will likely have to do not only your job, but someone else’s to get things done. That’s just life. If you remember these things, you will succeed where others will fail.”
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
Being promoted to IT manager in 2023 and being able to lead a small team.
Pictured above: Tommy on a fishing boat holding his catch!The post Employee Q&A: Thomas Quick first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Sherrine Marlow, an IBM TRIRIGA Applications Consultant at The Building People! She is a key member of our Technology Team.
Here is more from Sherrine about her background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
I have over 24 years of experience implementing dozens of Software Applications standing in a variety of roles including Certified Scrum Master, Project Manager, Project Lead, Tech Lead, Tech Product Owner, Tech People Manager, Business Systems Analyst, Data Developer/Analyst/Scientist, Business Intelligence Developer/Analyst, Training Developer, Trainer, Web Developer, Web Master, Quality Assurance Lead/Tester, just to name a few. I am a seasoned Business and Technical leader in the implementation, upgrade, and support of software application projects for both the government and commercial sectors across a variety of domains. I strive to assist businesses to achieve their objectives through the introduction of technology solutions to solve business problems.
Prior to The Building People, I had been gaining knowledge and experience as a Contractor to various government, for-profit, and not-for-profit companies, and organizations. I have an extensive background in successfully bringing technology projects to completion leading a variety of methodologies including Agile, Waterfall, and hybrid, as well as supporting applications after project completion.
I earned my Master of Science in Information Technology from Capella University, and Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from University of Phoenix, with an emphasis on Information Systems and Technology, Project Management, and Technology Administration. I am a Certified Scrum Master and have been an effective and successful servant leader to Agile project teams. I have completed training and have been successful managing technical and learning teams. I have also completed Developer, System Administration, and Business Intelligence Developer training for the TRIRIGA application and have applied the training over a 6-year period to the implementation and upgrade of IBM TRIRIGA, the application and the infrastructure, as well as production support and training to become an expert in this area. I possess a wide and varied skillset allowing me to contribute to any project in a variety of capacities.
What is your role at TBP?
I am the IBM TRIRIGA Applications Consultant for The Building People. I specifically help the Technology team with learning about IBM TRIRIGA. I am also the IBM TRIRIGA expert for our clients, advising them on how to fit IBM TRIRIGA into their current processes and how it can improve them. I am very passionate about the IBM TRIRIGA product and am excited to be able to assist organizations in setting it up, training Users to use it, and seeing their smiling faces when everything works as they expect.
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
As the IBM TRIRIGA Application Consultant, I am primarily collaborating with a client to stand up their purchase of this application. I am also assisting our Tech Team where required to help stand up a copy of the software and any peripherals at The Building People.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?
I love to design and make quilts.
What do you like most about working in your role?
I love working with IBM TRIRIGA and showcasing what an awesome product it can be for a company. I love untangling the complexities that IBM TRIRIGA brings and helping Business Users understand the power and usefulness of this new product to do their jobs. I love to see their smiles when they see something they used to do manually, or in another application, come through in IBM TRIRIGA.
How do you define success?
Success is looking back at my life when the end is near and realizing my family, my creations, and my accomplishments are my legacy to be left behind for the future generations and how excited I am to have lived the life I have lived, learned the things I have learned, loved the people I have loved, laughed as much as I have laughed, and the goal to keep on learning, laughing, and loving until my last breath.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I would like to learn how to be a “white hat” hacker and spend my days saving companies and individuals from being hacked.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“Courage is not the absence of fear, it’s being afraid but doing it anyway.” (Unknown).
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
When you do not know what to do, do nothing!
This does not mean that you should not take action, but it does mean that while you are struggling to find answers to give your mind and body a rest to help figure things out. Go for a walk on the beach. Take the dog on an adventure in your neighborhood. Get some fresh air. Go for a drive. Allow your mind and body to breathe and wander. The answer will find you.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
Learning how to learn and finding that always being open to learning new things will lead you to accomplishments that you did not even know you were seeking. My latest, most exciting accomplishment has been to become a SR. TRIRIGA Developer, SR. TRIRIGA BI Developer, and a Certified Scrum Master – the three most fun and exciting positions I have ever held. What is my next great accomplishment? I guess we shall see!
Pictured above is a “temperature” Afghan. Sherrine had a color chart and crocheted the highs and lows during a 6-month period in Portland, Oregon!The post Employee Q&A: Sherrine Marlow first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Brian Thorp, Marketing Manager at The Building People! He is a key member of our Marketing team. Brian has been with The Building People for two years and has over 12 years experience in marketing.
Here’s more from Brian about his background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
I have been with The Building People for two years now. I came over when the company purchased InfoNarus. Prior to The Building People, I was a partner for almost 10 years in a marketing company that specialized in local search engine optimization, websites, and online marketing services for small businesses.
What is your role at TBP?
I am a Marketing Manager for The Building People. I have been with the company since December of 2021.
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
I help the marketing team with all aspects of marketing, but my focus is social media, blog content, website updates, Building Blocks, Building Buzz, and email campaigns.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?
I considered becoming a professional poker player. I started playing on a regular basis to avoid sitting in traffic every day. I won Portland’s largest-ever 1st prize in a poker tournament of $31,000 and then, about three months later, won $15,000 for 4th place in a more prominent tournament in Pendleton, Oregon. If I had won the tournament in Pendleton, I was going to take a leave of absence from my company and go to Vegas to play in the World Series of Poker for the summer. I still occasionally play in poker tournaments.
What do you like most about working in your role?
I really love working with all the people on The Building People team. The culture of the company is amazing.
How do you define success?
To me, success is working to make yourself better on a consistent basis. If you’re consistently improving yourself, you’re making progress. Everyone’s journey is different, so comparing yourself to others is a poor way to judge success. However, if you’re consistently improving yourself, you’re ensuring success by being better than you were before.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I really want to learn how to play the guitar. I have a guitar and know a few chords but really want to learn and get good at it. My grandfather played in bluegrass bands his entire life and used to make instruments. The last instrument he made before he passed was a ukulele that he gave to me for my birthday. It would be a great way to honor his memory by getting good at playing the guitar.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“If it is to be, it is up to me.”
-William Johnsen
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
I have had several people over my life emphasize that professional success is only worth it if you have happiness outside of your professional life. Killing yourself to build a business, earn a bonus, or climb the ladder at a job aren’t worth it if you aren’t happy outside of your professional life. In the end, people are never going to remember how good you were at your job, they’ll remember the impact that you had on the people around you and for the times spent enjoying life.
Brian (far right) with his wife, Lucy, and son, Avery, on a hay ride at the pumpkin patch.The post Employee Q&A: Brian Thorp first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Kimberly Demorest, Facility Security Officer at The Building People! She is a key member of our Headquarters team. Kimberly joined The Building People with extensive experience in government security and has been with the company for two years.
Here’s more from Kimberly about her background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
I began government contracting right out of college. I worked at the Pentagon upon graduation and worked for the Under Secretary of Defense (Acquisition, Technology and Logistics) Front Office. I assisted in managing and implementing their Continuity of Operations Program (COOP) for the entire division to ensure safety of all personnel in the event of an emergency. I then transitioned and worked for the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Chemical and Biological Warfare. From there I began a position within a government contracting company managing their HR and becoming the Facility Security Officer (FSO). From there, I have been with 2 other companies as a FSO until I came to The Building People in 2021.
What is your role at TBP?
Facility Security Officer (FSO)
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
I work as the FSO and assist in HR with new hires. I maintain our facility clearance program to ensure we remain compliant in order to be able to acquire and work on our contracts with the government.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?
I was born in Manhattan and raised in New Jersey. I play the piano.
What do you like most about working in your role?
I love being able to assist in all areas of our company. Being in security, I can touch a lot of aspects and work with a lot of different people. I also love being able to be a part of welcoming new hires to ensure that they have a comfortable and enjoyable experience with our company.
How do you define success?
Success to me is contributing to the betterment of anything in a positive way.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I would love to learn to speak different languages.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?
Every day might not be good…but there is something good in every day.
Kimberly with her husband Eric, daughter Juliana, son Liam (red shirt), son Jake (black shirt), and son Caleb (gray sweatshirt).The post Employee Q&A: Kimberly Demorest first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Eleanor Winants, Recruiter at The Building People! She is a key member of our Human Resources Team. Eleanor is a former Division I Student Athlete from Wake Forest where she was the team captain of the Field Hockey team her Junior and Senior year.
Here’s more from Eleanor about her background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
This is my very first job out of college! I attended Wake Forest University, where I majored in Communication and Sociology. When I graduated in 2022, I had no idea what I wanted to do, and while I was slightly freaking out, I had so many older peers and mentors tell me that it’s normal to feel that way. Not everyone has it figured out right away (this wasn’t so easy for a personality type like mine that likes to know exactly what her future looks like). I had also dedicated my 4 years of college to my sport, field hockey, and I was experiencing a bit of an identity crisis when that ended. I did a lot of internships throughout school that exposed me to marketing, sales, communication, operations, and human resources.
Towards the end of my senior year at Wake, I found a master’s program at Georgetown University—the MiM program, (Master of Science in Management). It’s a 1-year program with an MBA core curriculum, STEM-designated, and provides a foundation in business with a unique focus on technology and innovation. It is also geared towards individuals like me who have a more liberal arts background, but want to gain the skills and business acumen to diversify their career path. So, I applied on a whim, not knowing what God had in store for me, and I got in! I knew this was the right decision for me at the time, and it challenged me a lot academically.
I was introduced to TBP through my brother’s friend, Paul Lenahan, and I had the opportunity to talk with Recruiting Manager, Suzanne Geary-Henderson, on the phone about their Junior Recruiter position. I never thought about recruiting as a career before, but I had mentors in the past that told me that I would make a good recruiter and that I had the personality for it. After talking with Suzanne and meeting the rest of the team and company at a Washington Nationals baseball game last summer, I knew that this was where I was meant to be. Not a lot of people can say that they loved their first job out of college, but I can confidently say I’ve lucked out.
What is your role at TBP?
I am a Recruiter for TBP. I specifically help the Technology team find top talent. I also help my fellow recruiters, Mat, Suzanne, and Shiori, when they have critical jobs to fill. I will be running the intern program this summer with Kelly Peter, which I am very excited about. I’ve always been passionate about helping recent graduates, like me, find their purpose.
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
As a recruiter, I am usually someone’s first impression of the company. When I am talking to candidates, it is my responsibility to not only clearly share the mission of TBP, but represent who we are as a brand and the culture that sets us apart from our competitors. I ensure that all candidates, no matter if we hire them or not, experience a smooth interview process and feel cared for. I work closely with my hiring managers to find top talent and individuals who share TBP’s values, and embody the culture we want to maintain as we continue to grow. I also work closely with Predictive Index to understand peoples’ behaviors and how we can utilize the data to find the right people to positively impact our teams here at TBP.
What is a fun fact about you people might not know?
One fun fact about me is that I was a huge country girl when I was little. I rode horses for 10+ years and lived on a farm with my family where we had pigs, sheep, goats, cows, chickens, bunnies—you name it. I’ve always loved animals and wanted to be a veterinarian for the longest time. I was also a member of the Loudoun County 4-H Club and showed my animals at the Loudoun County Fair.
What do you like most about working in your role?
What I like most about working in my role is the people. I love helping people find their passion and purpose in life. On the flip, I like being able to represent who we are as a company through all my interactions with potential candidates. I also like knowing that I have an impact on our culture by finding talented and inspiring people who share the same values.
How do you define success?
I define success as finding a sense of fulfillment and meaning that aligns with one’s individual journey and values. I believe that success isn’t a destination to be reached but is always evolving based on what season of life a person is in.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
If I could learn to do anything it would be to sing. Having a pretty voice would be epic. I would be up on any stage if I could.
Do you have a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“If you look at the people in your life and don’t get inspired, then you don’t have a circle, you have a cage.” – Nipsey Hussle
I heard this quote when I was in college, right when the pandemic hit, and we were in lockdown. I was selected to be a participant in the virtual ACC Professional Development Academy, and this was a quote that they introduced us to. It really resonated with me, and still does to this day. It made me take a step back and look at the people in my circle and make some personal changes in my life. I always strive to surround myself with individuals that inspire me every day. My mom always instilled in me when I was younger, “Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future,” and I think this quote sends a similar message. I thought about this quote a lot when I was looking for my first job. When I found TBP, I knew I was going to be surrounded by individuals that would make me not only a better professional, but a better person. I could not have landed at a better place to be inspired.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The best piece of advice that I’ve ever received was from my dad. He told me this when I was facing rejection and did not know which way to go in my life. He said, “In God’s economy, a closed door isn’t a dead end, but direction that always proves to be a Godsend. You see, the Lord uses closed doors as much as open doors.” Redirection is protection, and you will always end up where you are meant to be.
What is the accomplishment you are the most proud of to date?
The accomplishment I am most proud of is being a Division I athlete in the ACC for 4 years and being a Junior and Senior captain. I put my heart and soul into the game of field hockey for about 14 years, and I was adamant about making it to the college-level. I had to make sacrifices that not a lot of kids growing up had to make. But I have zero regrets and wouldn’t trade my experience for the world. I learned so much about myself through the highs and lows of my sport and it provided me with countless life lessons that I have been able to carry with me into my professional career.
Eleanor (middle) with her parents Peter and Shelley Winants at her Georgetown graduation.The post Employee Q&A: Eleanor Winants first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Shiori Naito, Associate Recruiter at The Building People! She is a key member of our Human Resources Team. Shiori has over 3 years experience in human resources and recruiting. She has been with The Building People for 2 years.
Here’s more from Shiori about her background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
I have been in the recruiting world since graduating college. Being a COVID graduate, I was very much stressed about where I could look for work. Thankfully my manager Suzanne, who I knew before joining TBP, suggested I apply to staffing agencies. Staffing was a great intro for me to learn recruiting basics, all the tips and tricks, and how to recruit for different industries. I immediately became passionate about recruiting and still am!
What is your current role at TBP?
I am one of the four recruiters at TBP.
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
I help find people that make buildings happy! I recruit for the Mission Support Services, Smart Buildings, Real Estate and Workplace, and Project Management and Engineering business lines. Each day is different, with sourcing for different positions, conducting phone screens, coordinating interviews, checking new applicant resumes, getting offers out, and working on the Employee Referral Program.
What is a fun fact about you that people may not know?
From Kindergarten through high school, I went to Japan every summer to attend school there. The schools my mom went to growing up took me in and it was something I looked forward to every year. I will forever be grateful I got an opportunity to do that and cherish the friends and memories I made there. I can’t wait to go back.
What do you like most about working in your role?
I like being the bridge between talent and opportunity and bringing in people that positively affect the business lines I support. I love connecting a candidate to an opportunity that they’re excited about that also aligns with their skills, aspirations, and values. This role allows me to constantly connect with many individuals, and seeing their success at TBP is incredibly fulfilling.
How do you define success?
I define success as continual growth.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the drums.
What is a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“We cannot become what we want by remaining what we are.”
-Max de Pree
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
My dad always told me, “Don’t get too comfortable”.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
After living in Texas for all my life, I packed up everything I own and moved to Virginia 2 years ago. There are a lot more opportunities here especially for recruiting. I knew it was something I needed to do if I wanted to grow. I’ve grown so much personally and professionally since moving here, and TBP is a big part of that!
Shiori and her finacé Camden at the Oklahoma State University Homecoming football game.The post Employee Q&A: Shiori Naito first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Julie Lovett, Senior Strategic Capture Manager at The Building People! She is a key member of our Growth Team. Julie has over 15 years experience in the IWMS industry with both private and public sector companies.
Here’s more from Julie about her background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
I’ve managed IT projects in the IWMS Industry for several years and recently went back into the IT business development side of the business.
What is your current role at TBP?
I’m a Senior Strategic Capture Manager.
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
I find opportunities for the growth team that align with the skill sets and goals of the company and, in collaboration with the technology team, track those opportunities through the proposal phase.
What is a fun fact about you that people may not know?
I like to play pool.
What do you like most about working in your role?
I really like getting to work with a great group of people and working towards the same goal.
How do you define success?
I define success as setting goals and then achieving them.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I would learn how to paint. I took a class many years ago but then never seemed to make the time to do it. I’m also impatient so I wasn’t very happy with my work.
What is a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“Energy flows where attention goes.”
Basically, energy is attracted to where we focus our attention.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received is to never give up, no matter what you are trying to achieve.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
My proudest accomplishment is getting my master’s degree while working full-time. It was tough but very worth it in the end.
Julie with her husband Doug and dog Remie catching the sunset at the beach.The post Employee Q&A: Julie Lovett first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Shannon Blodgett, Deputy Program Manager at The Building People! She is a key member of our HQ Delivery Team. Shannon has 24 years of facilities support experience including contract management, operations support, project assistance, and program management.
Here’s more from Shannon about her background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
My professional background is facility support services. My career began by chance 24 years ago when I accepted a receptionist job from one of our current customers. I have continued to support them in various positions since 1999. The support roles I have held are project assistant, facility plan developer (utilizing AutoCAD), facility services contract manager, facility operations support, and program manager. I love what I do, and I feel like I am always learning something to enhance my ability to provide the best customer support I can.
What is your current role at TBP?
I am the deputy program manager in support of the 63rd DPW facility support services project. I have been with TBP for 4 years and counting!
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
I help maintain great customer relations while helping to ensure our customers’ facilities can support the Army Reserve tenant units’ missions. I work closely with our TBP team in the field. We cover 7 states divided into 6 regions. Our team helps to identify facility deficiencies and relay them to the customer via work orders or project requests. We follow the work from start to finish and ensure the customer is receiving the best quality completion of their funded repairs, projects, and service contracts.
What is a fun fact about you that people may not know?
I am a city girl who moved to the country! I was born and raised in Southern California. However, I learned quickly that working remotely with the TBP HQ team was just not good enough for me. In July of 2022, we sold our house and moved across the country to West Virginia so I could work in the office with the Leesburg team! I love it! I will never look back.
What do you like most about working in your role?
I really enjoy supporting our customer and our TBP team. I have spent my entire career learning how to provide the best support I can. How can we improve our processes? What can we do better? It motivates me. I know that, here at TBP, I can grow with them as well. I appreciate everyone here that I work with and all that I have learned.
How do you define success?
What comes to mind immediately is motivation. I was always motivated by people around me that were complacent and struggling their way through life. That was not appealing to me at all. I knew if I wanted to be successful, I would need to stay driven, work hard, and make a better life for myself.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I would become a professional photographer. My grandmother introduced me to photography, and I took photography all four years in high school. I just never made time to really invest in it.
What is a favorite quote that resonates with you?
I am not a quote person, but if you know me personally, in conversation you might hear me say, “And for that, I’m out!” from Shark Tank. Sometimes I think I am funny, so I will throw that little quote in or “There is no way I would ever jump out of a perfectly good airplane.” when I think something is ridiculous.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
I must give my Senior Program Manager Denny Boyles credit for this one. I absolutely hate speaking in front of groups. I used to speak very fast, rushing through whatever it was I had to say, leaving no time for questions or feedback. One day he told me, “In order to grow, you have to make yourself uncomfortable sometimes and get out of your comfort zone.” That is solid advice. I think of it often and it will continue to help me grow as a professional.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
A few years ago, a friend of mine asked if I wanted to complete the 52-hike challenge. I had zero experience hiking, but decided to challenge myself, so I accepted her offer. Our hikes ranged from 5 miles to 16 miles for the longest one. We completed the 52 hikes that December. That is something I am proud of myself for doing. I was able to see some beautiful parts of California, Washington, and Oregon that year. It was not easy, especially with the grueling summer heat, but well worth it!
Shannon with a baby goat at a “goat snuggle session” at a local farm.The post Employee Q&A: Shannon Blodgett first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Shannon Grigsby, Staff Accounts Payable Specialist at The Building People! She is a key member of our Accounts Payable team. Shannon has been with The Building People for three years and has over 20 years experience in Accounts Payable.
Here’s more from Shannon about her background and role at TBP:
What is your professional background?
Prior to joining The Building People, I spent the past 20 years building my career as an Accounts Payable guru working for different companies in the Northern Virginia area. I started out working at Sprint LLD as a Billing Analyst and then dabbled in the corporate retail world for a couple of years at French Country Living, Inc. I then spent the next ten years working for government contractors as an Accounts Payable Coordinator and Supervisor for Intercall and Harris CapRock Communications. I ended these two decades working for the homebuilder Comstock Homebuilding, Inc.
What is your current role at TBP?
I am the Staff Accounts Payable Specialist at TBP.
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
I am the gatekeeper of all things “payables”. I fulfill my enthusiasm for number crunching and problem solving by ensuring that all subcontractor and vendor invoices are received and processed in accordance with the terms of their contracts and agreements. The completion of these payments enables our company to efficiently manage the job sites for each customer, along with allowing our headquarters office to run efficiently.
What is a fun fact about you that people may not know?
I am quite a jokester. My family is constantly telling me that I play too much. When speaking to them, I often have to start sentences with “I’m being serious when I say this.”
What do you like most about working in your role?
The thing that I like most about working in my role is that it allows me to interact with the various departments and projects within the company. This, in turn, helps me to learn more and understand the different processes entailed in making our company the successful business that it is today.
How do you define success?
To me, success is not defined by the size of your bank account, car you drive, or house you live in. Success is when you are truly happy within yourself, at peace with all decisions that you have made, have found a career that you love, look forward to waking up each morning to work to further it, and, most importantly, have loved ones to enjoy life with.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I would learn all things about vehicle mechanics. For some reason, I have always been fascinated with auto repair. I once dreamed of opening Virginia’s first all women owned and operated auto repair shop.
What is a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“Don’t stress over the things that you can’t control.”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
To remember that no matter where you are or what you are doing, you are always representing the company that you work for.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
The accomplishment that I am most proud of to date is that I have raised three beautiful daughters who have become exceptional women.
Shannon and family at a graduation partyThe post Employee Q&A: Shannon Grigsby first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Scott Blalock, Building Controls Engineer at The Building People! He is a key member of our Smart Buildings team. Scott has over 25 years of building automation experience.
Here’s more from Scott about his background and role at TBP.
What is your professional background?
I have over 25 years’ experience at various levels and types of building control, life safety, and management. Before joining The Building People, I worked for Duke University Medical Center.
I have earned several certifications during my time working with building automation including 100W Operational Security for Control Systems, IA Niagara R2 and Workplace Pro, Niagara AX, Niagara N4, Metasys System Administration, SmartStruxure (EcoStruxure) Solution: Workstation and System Design among others that pertain to keeping data centers secure and reliably maintained.
What is your current role at TBP?
As a Building Controls Engineer, my role is to provide a view into the Building Controls system for the customer that is effective, efficient, and easy to use.
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
The work I do includes starting new servers, creating graphics, programming devices, troubleshooting issues, diagnosing network issues, and assisting team members with projects.
What is a fun fact about you that people may not know?
My dad jokes can be funny, sometimes.
What do you like most about working in your role?
I enjoy the flexibility of working from home. I also work on a great team, and that makes it even better.
How do you define success?
At the end of the day if I feel good about what I’ve done I consider that a success.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I’d love to learn to scuba dive. I’ve always had a love for the ocean and the creatures that live there.
What is a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“I’m your huckleberry.”
-Doc Holiday in “Tombstone”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
If you cannot make a decision in 10 seconds, it is either not your decision to make or you do not have enough information.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
I successfully advocated the promotion of the BAS Operator position to better reflect the level of responsibilities and workload for the employees under my direct supervision.
Scott with his family on a recent trip to Mabry Mill, NC.
From left to right: Becca (daughter), Scott, Nikki (wife), and Logan (son) Dogs: Zuka (left) and Aang (right).
The post Employee Q&A: Scott Blalock first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Lou Friscoe, Senior Program Manager at The Building People! He is a key member of our Charleston team. Lou is a US Navy Veteran and has 20 years of project management, program management, and workforce management experience. Here’s more from Lou about his background and role at TBP.
What is your professional background?
Before joining The Building People in 2019, I was in the US Navy for 23 years. I served as an Aviation Structural Mechanic with a focus on Non-Destructive Inspection and Testing. Throughout my career, I worked on numerous airplanes in numerous locations deploying around the world. As my career progressed, I held positions as the Supply Officer, Operations Lead, Maintenance Control Lead, and Production Control Lead. During my active duty time, I achieved my Masters degree from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. The university offered me the opportunity to be an instructor for the lower-level courses as I finished my tour in New Orleans, LA. When I retired from the military, I was the Senior Enlisted Leader for 13 commands at the Naval Operations Support Center Charleston. My responsibilities covered attack boats, mine countermeasures, Hospital Corpsmen, supply and logistics, operations, and maintenance of heavy equipment.
My academic career continued to grow, and I was hired by the University of Arkansas to be an Adjunct Professor in the Master of Science in Operations Management and the Master of Science in Engineering Management programs. My focused courses are Strategic Management, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Safety and Health, and Maintenance Management. My experiences in the US Navy and in academia helped set me up for a smooth transition into the civilian workforce.
What is your current role at TBP?
I am a Senior Program Manager (SPM).
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
My role at The Building People is hard to describe. Each day is something new and a different puzzle to figure out. I currently have oversight of 10 projects varying from Operations and Maintenance (O&M), Facility Support Services (FSS), Material Expediters and Material Handlers, Contracting and Administration, and a high-profile project that ensures our Airmen launch when the phone call comes. As an SPM, the roles and responsibilities vary and we essentially “make things happen” to make sure our projects run as smoothly as they can. I assist the Business Development team when needed to help review proposals as a technical expert, and look for new opportunities to pursue to enable continued growth of the business while also being the glue between headquarters and the projects.
What is a fun fact about you that people may not know?
I rebuilt a 1980 Corvette Stingray over the course of two years in 2014-2016. I installed a new engine, brake system, vacuum system, transmission, suspension, and everything mechanical on that car. It looked like the Bat Mobile, black and shiny with side pipes. It was a frustrating hobby but after I built it, I sold it because everyone in my family couldn’t fit in it, so I bought a jeep. Not as fast, but still fun!
What do you like most about working in your role?
I couldn’t ask to be in a better position than I am in now. I can take care of my teammates, help them, and appreciate their hard work. Every person on my team does their part and they do it well without complaining. They make my job easy and make me want to work harder for them. I like just being “Lou”, and my teams know they can call me or text me at any time and I will help them.
How do you define success?
Success is not defined by money, it’s nice to have but it doesn’t make you successful. Success can be defined in many ways, but self-pride seems to shine for me. An example would be a proud mom or dad watching their kid open a door for an older person, watching your kid grow up and be respectful, and making good choices. That is success! When a person achieves their diploma and walks across the stage with a big smile, that is success. Waking up every morning and making your bed, a small win but still a successful start. I do not define success as one big win but a bunch of little wins, each one being a success. Unless I win the Powerball, then I will successfully disappear.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I worked on airplanes for most of my life and never learned to fly. I can start the engines, fix anything on an airplane, operate everything, and verify the logbooks are right but I never learned to fly. I still have it on the bucket list to learn. It will happen someday.
What is a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“In God we trust. All others must bring data.”
-W. Edwards Deming
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
If you cannot make a decision in 10 seconds, it is either not your decision to make or you do not have enough information.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
Daddy, of course! I think of the unique things I have done in my life from climbing active volcanos in different countries, touching the different oceans, spending time overseas accomplishing missions, and helping students achieve their goals. I am an accomplished Dad. I am hard on my kids, but they love me and know I am setting them up for success. I tell them my lessons learned and definitely what NOT to do as I did! Everyone wants the best for their kids and as they get older, they really are just broke best friends. I let my kids attempt whatever they want, and sometimes they are successful and sometimes they fail. And if they fail, I let them fail, but fail to the point where they learn, not to the point where they are broken. I will not be around forever and I tie it back to: what is success? It is my kids knowing they are going to be okay as they grow!
Lou and family on a trip to Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
[From left to right: Lou, Eli, Melanie, and Eva].The post Employee Q&A: Lou Friscoe first appeared on The Building People.
Sustainability is no longer just a marketing buzzword for companies, it’s become a fundamental aspect of responsible business practices as organizations have begun to set goals for, and commit to, a carbon-neutral future. Companies across all industries are recognizing that efficiency, sustainability, and carbon-neutral practices aren’t just good for the planet, they’re also good for the bottom line. One powerful way to embrace sustainability is by implementing a comprehensive sustainability program within your organization built around calculated carbon-zero goals. Such a program can have a profound impact, not only on an organization’s environmental footprint but also on their financial health and operational efficiency. Here are five ways that a sustainability program can save money, increase efficiency, and reduce waste for your organization:
1. Energy Efficiency TechnologiesOne primary aspect of a sustainability program involves installing and utilizing energy-efficient building technologies. This includes sensors, touch-free technologies, and Internet of Things (IoT) smart devices. These innovations are designed to automate and optimize resource usage, decrease energy and water consumption, and, consequently, reduce operational costs. Optimal use of building systems through smart building automation technologies is a key factor in implementing and executing a sustainability strategy that enables an organization to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint.
IoT technologies ensure that resources such as lighting, heating, and cooling are used only when needed by automating these processes. This not only saves money, but also decreases the building’s carbon footprint and enhances the overall comfort and productivity of building occupants by ensuring that building temperatures and lighting conditions are at optimal levels. Read more about and see examples of energy efficient buildings projects here.
2. Eco-Friendly ProductsAnother aspect of sustainability is the use of eco-friendly products within your building. From low-flow toilets to sustainable building materials, these choices can significantly reduce the environmental impact of your facility. While these products require an initial investment, the long-term benefits are substantial. Lower utility bills, reduced maintenance costs, and better efficiency can all contribute to cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint.
Besides sustainable building materials, utilizing eco-friendly cleaning and facilities maintenance supplies is a key component of a sustainability program. Harsh cleaning chemicals can have a severe impact on both the environment and building occupants. Advances in cleaning chemical technologies have enabled facilities managers to use eco-friendly cleaning supplies without jeopardizing effectiveness. Utilization of eco-friendly paper products and low-energy hand dryers also allow facilities managers to significantly reduce waste in restrooms and hand cleaning areas. To find a list of eco-friendly products and more information on eco-friendly labeling standards click here.
3. Recycling ProgramsImplementing recycling programs within your building is a simple yet effective way to reduce waste and promote a culture of sustainability among occupants. Recycling not only diverts materials from landfills, but also conserves resources by reusing materials in a closed-loop system, which, in turn, can lower waste disposal costs.
Recycling programs are also an effective way to build a mindset of sustainability within the facility. The visibility of recycling bins and instructional posters act as constant reminders that sustainability is a priority within the facility. This mindset will often result in occupants not only participating in the recycling program, but also practicing sustainable office practices such as turning off lights, recycling paper, utilizing hand dryers instead of paper towels, ensuring outside doors and windows are closed, reducing water usage, and keeping thermostat temperatures at reasonably efficient levels. Read more about recycling programs including a searchable library of plans, data, and educational materials here.
4. Energy Efficiency UpgradesWhile initial costs may deter some from pursuing energy efficiency upgrades, it’s essential to recognize that these investments often pay for themselves in the long run. Upgrading building infrastructure, including insulation, windows, and HVAC systems, can significantly reduce energy consumption. As a result, utility bills decrease, and the company’s carbon footprint shrinks. Over time, the return on investment becomes evident, with the savings outweighing the upfront costs. IoT controls, sensors, and smart building software used in conjunction with these energy-efficient systems ensure that they maximize efficiency.
5. Solar and Wind Energy InstallationsOrganizations aiming to advance sustainability are harnessing renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. Installing solar panels or wind turbines can make your building self-sustaining in terms of energy generation. Any excess energy produced can even be fed back into the grid, potentially creating an additional revenue stream. While the initial investment can be substantial, government incentives and decreasing renewable energy costs are making these solutions more accessible and financially viable. Green energy sources enable buildings to become self-sustainable and are a key to meeting carbon zero goals. Learn more about the different types of renewable energy and their benefits here.
In conclusion, a sustainability program isn’t just about saving the environment; it’s also about saving money, increasing efficiency, and meeting carbon zero goals. By implementing energy-efficient technologies, using eco-friendly products, establishing recycling programs, investing in energy efficiency upgrades, and adopting renewable energy solutions, your organization can simultaneously reduce costs and while achieving sustainability goals. Embracing sustainability isn’t solely a moral obligation; it’s also a smart business strategy that positions your company for a greener and more prosperous future, contributing to the net-zero carbon solution.
The post Save Money, Increase Efficiency, and Reduce Waste, with a Sustainability Program first appeared on The Building People.
The Building People’s inaugural 2023 summer internship program concluded during the first week of August. We are thrilled to share the journey we embarked on with our five exceptional interns as it was a transformative experience. We had the privilege work with these young professionals as they learned about our mission and capabilities and immersed […]
The post A Summer of Learning: Recapping The Building People’s Internship Program Successes first appeared on The Building People.
Over the last three years, the hybrid work revolution has transformed the workforce, normalizing many employees dividing their time between remote work and the office. As this new work model has evolved, companies face the challenge of optimizing their office space to support collaboration, productivity, and employee well-being. Space planning software has become an essential […]
The post Why Space Planning Software Is an Essential Productivity Tool first appeared on The Building People.
The Building People kicked off the inaugural TBP Internship Program this May. While we have had summer interns previously, this year marked the kickoff of a structured program that will be repeated yearly. The program was developed as part of a commitment to supporting the growth and education of college students in various aspects of […]
The post The Building People Summer Internship Program first appeared on The Building People.
Meet Dan Purcelley, Senior Strategic Account Manager at The Building People! He is a key member of our Growth Team. Dan has 16 years of experience in property management and strategic account management. Read more from Dan about his background and role at TBP. What is your professional background? Before The Building People, I […]
The post Employee Q&A: Dan Purcelley first appeared on The Building People.
At The Building People LLC., we are deeply committed to playing our part in the fight against climate change. We understand the importance of transparency in this journey, and we’re eager to share our progress.
We measure and manage our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions following the Greenhouse Gas Protocol Corporate Standard provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which categorizes emissions into three scopes. In this report, we focus on our Scope 1 and 2 emissions, which include direct emissions from our operations and indirect emissions from the energy we purchase.
Scope 1 Emissions (Direct GHG Emissions)Our direct emissions come primarily from the use of our company vehicles and the natural gas we use for heating. Our scope 1 emissions for 2022 were 4 CO2-e (metric tons) and will serve as our baseline for 2023 reduction targets.
Scope 2 Emissions (Indirect GHG Emissions)We purchase electricity for our headquarters office operations, the generation of which results in indirect GHG emissions. To minimize these emissions, we have increased our telework operations, and continue to upgrade our headquarters facility with sensor technology that allows us to micromanage the internal building environment around occupancy levels during peak work hours. Our scope 2 emissions for 2022 are 61 CO2-e (metric tons) and is our baseline for 2023 reductions.
Looking AheadWe are proud of our achievements but recognize that there is still work to be done. We’re currently developing strategies to further reduce our emissions and considering ways to offset our remaining emissions. We are also beginning to address our Scope 3 emissions, which come from sources not owned or directly controlled by us.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. We will continue to update this page with our progress and our ongoing commitment to sustainability.
The post The Building People Scope 1 & 2 Report on Our Commitment to Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions first appeared on The Building People.
The Cornerstone of Effective Operations: Enterprise Asset Management Picture this: Your organization is a bustling city, and each asset you own — from buildings to HVAC systems — is an integral part of its infrastructure. To ensure that this ‘city’ functions smoothly, you need effective urban planning; in your organization’s case, that’s Enterprise Asset Management (EAM).
EAM is the systematic approach to managing physical assets throughout their lifecycle. It involves planning, designing, commissioning, operating, maintaining, and replacing assets while striving to improve efficiency and reduce costs. It’s not just about fixing what’s broken; it’s about optimizing your assets to serve you better.
The Power of Optimization: Boosting Asset Performance Optimizing your asset performance is like giving your ‘city’ a superpower. It increases the reliability and efficiency of your assets, minimizes downtime, and enhances service delivery. Think of it as tuning a car engine: once fine-tuned, it runs smoother, faster, and uses less fuel. Similarly, with optimized assets, your organization runs like a well-oiled machine, driving productivity and growth.
Cost-Efficiency Unleashed: Reducing Maintenance Costs An optimized EAM strategy is like having a dedicated mechanic who knows when to service your car before it breaks down. It enables proactive maintenance, which means you address potential issues before they escalate, saving you significant repair costs. Moreover, EAM’s predictive analysis can forecast future maintenance needs, allowing for better budget planning and reduced overall maintenance costs.
The Long Game: Improving Asset Lifecycle A well-managed EAM program is like a skilled gardener nurturing a tree to maturity. It ensures each asset reaches its full lifespan, reducing premature replacements and increasing return on investment. With regular maintenance, consistent performance checks, and timely upgrades, EAM ensures your ‘garden’ thrives over the long term.
Walking the Compliance Tightrope: EAM and Regulatory Compliance The world of asset management is wrapped in a web of regulations. EAM is your compliance compass, ensuring that your assets meet all local, state, and federal standards. It records all maintenance activities, inspections, and upgrades, creating an audit-ready trail. With EAM, you’re not just complying; you’re demonstrating your commitment to safety and responsibility.
The Symphony of Efficiency: Streamlining Workflows EAM is like a skilled conductor leading an orchestra, ensuring each section comes in at the right time to create a harmonious melody. It automates tasks, schedules activities, and assigns responsibilities, enabling a seamless flow of operations. EAM ensures that every ‘musician’ in your organization plays their part efficiently, producing a symphony of productivity.
Keeping Tabs: Asset Tracking with EAM Imagine trying to find a single book in a library without a catalog — daunting, right? That’s where EAM steps in. It provides real-time tracking of all your assets, from their location to their current status. With EAM, you always know where your ‘books’ are and how they’re faring, making your ‘library’ efficient and organized.
The journey toward effective Enterprise Asset Management may seem complex, but it doesn’t have to be. The Building People, with years of experience in EAM, particularly in the realm of government real estate and facilities management, can guide you every step of the way. Think of us as your city planner, mechanic, gardener, compliance officer, conductor, and librarian; all rolled into one. Reach out to The Building People today, and let’s work together to unlock the full potential of your organization through our EAM strategies that integrate technology, buildings, and people to deliver the future state of the built environment and a more sustainable tomorrow. Your organization deserves nothing less.
The post Discovering the Potential of Enterprise Asset Management: A Journey Towards Efficiency and Growth first appeared on The Building People.
Our most valuable resource is our people. We empower our team members to be their best and to help us achieve our mission. Meet Gracie Mesa, Area Facilities Operations Specialist at The Building People! She is a key member of our Facilities Operations Team. Gracie has 23 years of experience in project management.
Read more from Gracie about his background and role at TBP.
What is your professional background?
My professional background is Project Management.
What is your current role at TBP?
My current role with TBP is Area Facilities Operations Specialist for South Texas Region 3 area. As an AFOS, I am responsible for six United States Army Reserve Centers (USARC).
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
As an AFOS, I visit the USARC to conduct site visits. During the visits I verify preventative maintenance is being completed and that grounds, janitorial, and pest control services are being conducted and maintained for the centers. I meet with facility coordinators to discuss any building issues, coordinate contractor work and verify it’s completed, and look out for any environmental issues and report those as needed. I also conduct site visits on minor construction projects, such as SRMs, where I observe and report project progress.
Besides site visits, I am also responsible for ensuring safety precautions are being adhered to and verifying that the building HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire suppression, fire alarm, and protection systems are functioning as designed. If there are any issues, I work to get them resolved so our soldiers are not affected, and they can concentrate on their mission at hand and not worry about the building.
What is a fun fact about you that people may not know?
Something some may not know about me is that I am half Filipino. I was born in the Philippines and have dual citizenship.
What do you like most about working in your role?
I enjoy building trust and helping others as much as I can while developing relationships with the people that I am surrounded with.
How do you define success?
To me, success is simple. Success is when you are trusted, valued, and appreciated for the work you do.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I have been wanting to learn to speak Tagalog for a very long time. I did not pick it up as a child. Tagalog is a language spoken as a first language by the Philippine population. My mother’s side of the family is fluent in Tagalog. I would like to surprise my mother one day by speaking to her in Tagalog.
What is a favorite quote that resonates with you?
A quote that resonates with me is one by Benjamin Franklin, “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
To this day, I try to live by the advice that many people, I believe, go by: “Treat people the way you would like to be treated and respected.”
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
For years, I struggled as a young adult achieving my degree. I was a single mom with three young daughters. Life happened. I promised myself that when they were grown and on their own, I would go back and finish what I had started. It took longer than what I wanted to, but I eventually achieved getting my Bachelor of Science in Management in September 2019.
The post Employee Q&A: Gracie Mesa first appeared on The Building People.
The Office of Management and Budget recently issued Memo 23-15, which details how agencies should consider organizational health and performance when creating policies to address new work environments. Tom Temin of Federal News Network wrote a response to this memo, asserting that while it aims to balance the pressure to return to the office and telework, it takes a complex approach to solving this challenge.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to determining what the best future of work strategy should be. Leaders must consider people-centric solutions to accommodate the uniqueness of each organization’s needs for its workplace strategy to succeed.
Diagnosing the health and status of an agency’s workforce and workplace starts with understanding the complete story of work as it is today as the baseline of evidence needed when making decisions about work environments. Leaders must consider things like:
- How are employees prioritizing their work activities?
- How much time is spent on those activities, and what level of importance is assigned to them from their POV? Where do employees think they perform their best work?
- How are different teams and departments communicating, and what level of interaction are they currently having today? (i.e., virtual or face-to-face?)
- Are employees’ sentiments being considered, and how do those sentiments impact organizational effectiveness and mission delivery?
- Can you objectively measure culture, and is it genuinely aligned with the agency’s mission?
What if we could create work environments that enable everyone to do their best? It would support a person’s natural work style aligned with their job, healthy team dynamics and inclusivity, and consider the organization’s overall strategy.
In addition to understanding the workforce and engagement metrics, one of the more daunting aspects of the new work environment is understanding space requirements to include space planning and design that aligns with organizational missions and various macroeconomic or regional concerns.
Leveraging behavioral science and data must be the foundation of objective evidence to be considered when making decisions about work environments, including customizing policies, talent strategies, and space planning for today and the foreseeable future. Future work environment strategies must balance operational cost efficiency, connectivity, collaboration, portfolio optimization and rent costs, workforce engagement, and mission execution.
The Building People’s future of work methodology takes all of this into account and delivers a people-centric solution that:
- Views people as the most important asset in an organization’s real estate strategy
- Believes the work environment is designed for choice, inclusivity, and health & wellbeing
- Harmonizes the real estate strategy with an organization’s talent strategy
- Starts with truly understanding people as individuals
- Blends physical and virtual space through technology
The future of work will rely on organizational designs that are fluid. We must acknowledge that there is no silver bullet that will be best for all organizations. We’re here to help begin the conversation of how to craft your unique approach to building your future work environment, today.
The post Where To Start: Tackling the Challenges of OMB Memo 23-15 first appeared on The Building People.
Over my 30-year career in facilities management and construction, I have overseen many large commercial contracts and government facilities. In managing over 100 people, I learned how valuable it is to connect with your team and get to know their personalities as well as their expertise. You can only effectively identify your team members’ strengths by intentionally engaging with them. Rapport drives efficiency.
In my last two years as a Senior Program Manager for The Building People, I have flourished taking on new challenges and helping my teams solve problems while focusing on helping people thrive.
Here are some of my best practices for leading with a people-centric mindset as a facilities manager:
Know the Mission of the FacilityResearch and learn the basics of the business and mission of the facility you’re supporting. This will help you make more effective decisions and enable you to provide better customer service. Be aware of the parts of the business you don’t know and utilize team members to help fill those knowledge gaps. Having some gaps is okay, but it’s challenging to fake knowledge and very easy to see through from a customer’s perspective. If you do not have the immediate solution to a problem for a customer, communicate this to them and get an answer as quickly as is practical while providing the best possible solution.
Know Your Team MembersGet to know your team and their personalities so you can support them more effectively. People are the lifeblood of your team. Without your people working well together, your team is at risk of failure. Understanding human nature and knowing your team members will allow you to work together more effectively, allowing the team to perform at their full potential. All people are different. People are different and what might work for some, may not work for all. A good manager should be able to identify the different strengths of their team members and align them with the client’s priorities, enabling your team to meet and exceed their expectations.
Do Not “Act” Like An ExpertLearn general technical competency for critical areas, and do not try to act like an expert in any area you are not. You don’t have to be an expert in any one trade, but having a basic knowledge of the critical areas of a facility goes a long way. If you need an expert’s feedback in an area, defer to a teammate or consult someone before making any decisions. However, be 110% confident in the areas where you are an expert! It will earn you a pot of credibility! This way, if you are challenged (someone calls your bluff), you have all the aces in your hand.
Hold Yourself and Your Team AccountableBe accountable not only for yourself but also for your team. If you will be held responsible for your team’s performance, it is fair to expect that you hold them accountable as well. Your team’s work is a direct reflection of you as their manager. If they are excelling, it will be a good reflection on you. If they are struggling, that will reflect on you as well.
Act With ConfidenceConfidence! Confidence! Confidence! If you feel inadequate for the job you are performing, then you probably are. If you know in your heart that you and your team have what it takes for the team to succeed and that the team will rally behind you, then all you have to do is act like it. Recognize when gaps exist and fill them! Identify potential potholes and patch them! Don’t let a leak become a flood! Don’t let a spark become a fire! You are in control, and the bus riders will make it to the destination that you navigate them to.
The post Managing Your FM Team: Top Tips From a 30+ Year Pro first appeared on The Building People.
Reliability Centered Maintenance vs. Preventive MaintenanceReliability-centered maintenance (RCM) and preventive maintenance (PM) are two different maintenance strategies that can be used for operating commercial buildings. The key differences between RCM and PM begin with focusing on critical equipment. RCM identifies only the necessary equipment most important for the facility’s operation, while PM typically applies to all equipment regardless of its criticality.
Set UpWhen setting up your RCM program, you will apply a rigorous analysis process to identify the maintenance tasks needed to maintain critical equipment reliably and efficiently. PM typically relies on the manufacturer’s recommendations or industry best practices to determine maintenance tasks. While both are part of a scheduled maintenance routine, RCM attempts to get the most out of your labor costs while ensuring there is no critical system downtime.
FrameworkRCM is a risk-based approach to maintenance, focusing on the potential consequences of equipment failure and the likelihood of failure. The RCM framework emphasizes condition-based maintenance, which involves monitoring the condition of equipment to determine when maintenance is needed. At the same time, PM relies on scheduled maintenance intervals without considering prior analysis before engaging in the activities. In contrast, PM is generally based on a fixed schedule of maintenance activities.
StrategyThe RCM strategy centers on the cost-effectiveness of maintenance tasks by balancing the upfront cost against the cost of failure. The PM strategy may only sometimes consider the cost-effectiveness of maintenance tasks just because the task will need to be done using a regimented schedule to ensure you are always staying ahead of any downtime issues.
In summary, RCM and PM are two different maintenance strategies that can be used for operating commercial buildings. RCM is a more focused, analysis-based, and risk-based approach emphasizing condition-based maintenance and cost-effectiveness. At the same time, PM is a more general approach based on fixed schedules and industry best practices that avoids risk but may come at a higher premium.
The post Preventive Maintenance vs. Reliability Centered Maintenance: Why it Matters first appeared on The Building People.
Our most valuable resource is our people. We empower our team members to be their best and to help us achieve our mission. Meet Benjamin Acojido, Engineering Technician VI at The Building People! He is a key member of our Western Area Power Administration Team. Benjamin has over 30 years of experience in various roles within the utility industry.
Read more from Benjamin about his background and role at TBP.
What is your professional background?
The first 30 years of my career were in commercial nuclear power where I had roles as a Design Engineer, Office Manager, and Business Development Manager. The last 18 years of my career have been in transmission and distribution. In this area, I was a Procurement Supervisor for a large utility and held a Project Manager/Office Leadership role for two nationally known engineering and construction firms.
What is your current role at TBP?
Currently, I am an Engineering Technician VI assigned to the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) in Phoenix, AZ.
Can you tell us about the work you do at TBP?
I currently provide support to WAPA Project Managers. In this role, I perform tasks as assigned by the PMs. These tasks include arranging meetings, reviewing drawings and specifications, and following up on action items that are identified.
What is a fun fact about you that people may not know?
I currently have a HAM radio license.
What do you like most about working in your role?
The federal government has a new set of requirements, procedures, and processes that are different from a private electric utility. I enjoy learning how things are done with the federal government.
How do you define success?
To me, professional success is working on a project that is done with high quality, under budget, and on schedule.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
To be a better public speaker and leader.
What is a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“If it doesn’t look real, it probably isn’t.”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Listen to the advice of people that are more experienced than you and learn from your mistakes.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
Raising 7 kids and getting 5 of them to graduate from college.
The post Employee Q&A: Benjamin Acojido first appeared on The Building People.
Over the last three years, the workplace, workforce, and world, in general, have all seen significant changes. Covid-19 flipped the world as we know it upside down, and the workplace changed tremendously because of it. Forced to find a way to work remotely, companies that didn’t traditionally participate in a hybrid or work-from-home system not only found a way to make it work but found that it was possible to flourish. From a worker’s perspective, many discovered that they were productive at home and thrived. As we have started to return to the office, many companies have found that their workforce does not want to return to the office full-time. Instead, they have found that many employees seek a hybrid work model, where they can come to the office and work from home when they want. Employees seek to work in the most comfortable environment for them and that is conducive to their productivity.
All of this has made one thing clear: efficient use of space is essential to create an effective and productive workplace. As the workplace continues to evolve, employers find that effectively using space can significantly impact employee health, morale, and productivity. Executives and senior managers are seeking the best way to optimize their workspace to fit these updated workflow dynamics and create a workplace that’s not only conducive to productivity but creates an environment that draws employees back to the office while utilizing space as efficiently as possible. Here are a few ways to efficiently use space to improve the workplace.
Improves Employee HealthThe pandemic placed a considerable emphasis on safety in the workplace. Traditionally safety in the office setting was more of an afterthought. Still, the pandemic brought it to the forefront, emphasizing indoor air quality, sanitation of work areas and shared spaces, and ample workspace for each office worker. These needs have elevated the need to redesign and plan out space efficiently to allow for a more open and spacious workplace. This can help to reduce stress levels, improve air quality, and reduce noise levels, all of which can help to improve the overall health and well-being of employees while reducing the risk of spreading sickness.
Improves Employee MoraleThe modern workforce can work from anywhere and be productive; this became abundantly clear during the pandemic. The notion that offices are needed to incubate productivity no longer applies. With this in mind, offices must now be a bastion for productivity, teamwork, and comfort, eclipsing the notion that the office is somewhere people “have to” come to but instead aiming to make the office a place that employees “want to” come to. A modern workplace design with efficient use of space utilizes open areas that incorporate natural light and technology, providing common spaces for gathering that encourage collaboration while also creating individual workspaces that are ergonomic, connected, and designed for comfort. These modern workspaces help to create a more positive atmosphere while encouraging cooperation, creativity, and productivity, all of which boost employee morale and create an office where employees want to come too frequently to be productive.
Improves Building EfficiencyUtilizing space efficiently starts with knowing and tracking critical information about your facility, including total office space, occupancy rate, and layout. Technology can gather information in real-time, including occupancy of desks, room utilization, and booking of conference rooms and temporary workspaces for hybrid employees via hoteling software. This data can be incorporated within an Integrated Workplace Management System (IWMS) to easily track, organize, and facilitate efficient use of building space. When this data is utilized correctly, it allows facilities managers to adjust HVAC and lighting systems only to heat or cool when a space is occupied, thus increasing energy efficiency for the building and reducing carbon emissions.
Decreases Carbon FootprintKnowing the total office square footage and the occupancy rate allows businesses to plan their space as effectively as possible, enabling maximum office use in today’s hybrid work environment. When this information is not tracked, it leads to unused space spread across a company’s built environment and decreases efficiency. Effective use of occupancy data allows leaders to maximize their current space, enabling them to plan for future use. When space use is maximized and used as efficiently as possible, businesses can ensure they don’t waste space, energy, and resources, thus reducing their carbon footprint, increasing overall efficiency, and saving money that can be used to invest in other areas of the business.
Overall, efficient use of space helps organizations build a healthy, efficient workplace that embraces the necessary features needed for a hybrid workplace that employees want to utilize. From improving employee health and morale to reducing energy use and cost redundancies, efficient use of space can help to create a more productive and successful workplace. The pandemic has pushed businesses to embrace this changed workplace and enable managers to enact policies, planning, and procedures that implement the future of the workplace today.
The post How Efficient Use of Space Improves the Workplace first appeared on The Building People.
Several musically talented employees have come together to form a band! They kicked off their tenure as a band by performing a set at our annual holiday party. Many of our team members are remote, so this was also the first time they played together in person, which speaks volumes about how talented and dedicated this group is. Organizing a band that’s never all rehearsed in person and lives in various parts of the country may seem like a crazy idea. Still, it came to fruition quickly once all the members realized how passionate they were about playing.
“Marc and I started discussing a TBP Band compilation when we started our employment here in mid-2021. It was a lot of fun to talk about, but it was absolutely awesome when the stars aligned, and Keith joined the team, as well as Hank shortly thereafter,” said Shawn Morgal. “A ton of credit goes to Marc and Keith for giving the necessary nudge to make this a reality, and there is no telling what the future may hold for this group to get together and jam again sometime in the near future!”
“Playing from the same sheet of music means no rehearsal needed,” said Hank Terlaje. “I liked the fact that we are all seasoned musicians – and can learn our separate parts of a song and be able to go into a gig and sound like we have been performing together for years,” said Marc Zoellner. The yet-to-be-named band (they’re open to suggestions) is made up of four members of The Building People with two of their friends to round out a robustly talented six-piece:
Marc Zoeller, Senior Vice President – Growth: Percussion/Vocals
Hank Terlaje, Senior Program Manager: Guitar/Vocals
Shawn Morgal, Senior Program Manager: Acoustic Guitar/Vocals
Keith Colella, Director of Strategic Account Management: Electric/Acoustic Guitar/Banjo/Vocals
Gordon Johnson: Keyboards/Vocals
Danny “Steel”: Bass/Vocals
The post Talented Team Members Rock Annual Holiday Party first appeared on The Building People.
We want to take the time to recognize our longest-tenured employee at The Building People, Linda Osgood. Linda is the Senior Vice President of Strategy & Quality with The Building People. She was the first employee for The Building People 9 years ago. Linda also served as an independent contractor for The Building People for about a year before becoming an official employee, so she has been with The Building People for about 10 years. If you know anything about The Building People or are part of the team here, you know Linda. She’s the engine that helps make The Building People team go. Over her time, Linda has worked in just about every capacity for The Building People and continues to do whatever is needed on a daily basis to help our amazing team grow. Thank you for all your hard work, Linda! The Building People team looks forward to you helping to steer our ship into the future.
Here’s a bit more from Linda and her history at The Building People.
How did you get started with The Building People?
I spent my first year with The Building People as a 1099 contractor. So I’ve actually been with the company for 10 years, with 9 years as an employee. I worked with Larry in the federal government for many years. In 2013 I announced that she was retiring from the federal government. Larry approached me and asked what I planned to do after I retired. I let him know I was going to look for another job outside the government. That is when Larry let me know that he was planning on leaving the government and starting his own business and wanted to see if I would be interested in helping him getting it started. I said, “Sure, I’ll help out for awhile.” I initially starting working part-time on a contract before Larry had even officially started The Building People. After Larry officially founded The Building People, we joined together to work as a sub-contractor to an IT contractor for the Army Corp of Engineers. That’s how it all started. It was just Larry and I for the first year and a half.
How has your role evolved?
Initially, Larry and I both did everything. We were doing sales, marketing, and delivery of everything else as we were trying to grow the company. We set some directional goals for the company to help us grow. Then we started to bring some other folks on, like Charles Dilley and Jorie Fields. Now we’ve grown from just us two to about 350 or so people today.
What is your professional background?
For the federal government, I was doing real estate and workplace management solutions. I also have an HR background. That’s how I started in the federal government. My background is a mixture of human capital and the HR side of it. I headed up human capital for about 8 years in the federal government with the Public Buildings Service at GSA, with about 3000 employees under us to do training, development, and competency modeling, among other things.
Before that, I had a real estate background with GSA doing policy & procedures for design, construction, and portfolio analysis. So my background is a little bit of everything, with a focus on HR, workplace management, and real estate.
What is your current role at TBP?
My current role at TBP is Senior Vice President of Strategy & Quality. We just moved Operations over to the finance side, so that recently came off my title. It will evolve again, I am sure.
What is a fun fact about you that people may not know?
I came within 3 hours of getting my private pilot license. I gave it up because my job had changed. I moved from Delaware back to Philadelphia. I didn’t have the time or flight school to continue, and I couldn’t afford a plane. It was fun for a while, though.
What do you like most about working in your role?
It has to be the people, both internally and on the customer side, that I deal with that make it great.
How do you define success?
I define success as getting done what you need to get done while doing the best that you can do and always looking for innovative and creative ways of doing things.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
How to separate work from the rest of my life. That’s really hard for me to do, and learning to do it would be great.
What is a favorite quote that resonates with you?
“Life’s tragedy is that we get old too soon and wise too late.”
-Benjamin Franklin
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t tell me what I can’t do; tell me how to do what I want to do while keeping it ethical and keeping it legal.
What is the accomplishment you are the proudest of to date?
The accomplishment I am most proud of is raising my daughter, who is an outstanding young lady and is now an attorney in Miami, Florida, and doing well out on her own.
The post Employee Q&A: Linda Osgood first appeared on The Building People.
Why Outsource Your Facilities Management?Outsourcing your facilities management can be a great way to save time, energy, and money. It can help you take the pressure off your staff, allowing them to focus on their core responsibilities while allowing the facilities management professionals to do the rest. Outsourcing can also provide access to the most advanced and up-to-date technology and the expertise of experienced professionals who understand the complexities of managing a facility. Additionally, outsourcing can allow you to shift your focus from day-to-day operations to more strategic initiatives. Finally, outsourcing can help you improve your bottom line, as you can save on staffing costs, energy expenses, and operational costs.
There are many things to consider for building owners and facilities managers when it comes to maintaining facilities. Beyond simply cleaning the building daily, they must address maintenance for equipment, interior, and exterior building upkeep, repairs, sanitation, air quality, energy efficiency, fire safety, entry systems, and many other small intricacies that come with a good facilities management program. With all these obligations to maintain, there are numerous benefits to outsourcing your facilities management program to qualified facilities management professionals. Here are some key benefits of outsourcing your facilities management program:
Save MoneyAn expert facilities management team will save a building owner time and money on their facilities expenses. Facilities management companies have a variety of advantages that they can utilize that allow them to provide their services at a cost lower than an internal team, including:
- Optimizing economies of scale in purchasing cleaning, restroom, and building supplies enable you to save money on these for your facilities.
- Using fine-tuned processes that are more efficient and take less time than a full-time internal team saves building owners on labor costs while reducing mistakes.
- Scheduling and execution of preventative maintenance based on extensive expertise will extend your equipment’s life and lower maintenance costs over the long term. This eliminates many costly mistakes that may be made on maintenance by an internal team who may not possess knowledge of the various building systems that an outsourced team does.
- Expertise in optimizing your facilities to save energy by implementing sustainable and efficient processes that save on energy costs and help meet organization sustainability goals.
- Elimination of tax, insurance, and hiring costs associated with maintaining an internal staff.
Save TimeOutsourcing your facilities management will not only save building owners and building managers money, but it will also save them time. By utilizing the expertise of facilities management professionals who maintain knowledge of cutting-edge technology and procedures, cleaning and maintenance work on your facility will be done quicker with fewer mistakes than most internal teams can. Time will also be saved by eliminating hiring, training, and continuing education needed to maintain an internal facilities management team.
Save EnergyProviding a sustainable environment that focuses not only on efficiency, but sustainability, occupancy, comfort, and safety has become as important as ever because of the pandemic. Today’s total solutions facilities management companies provide building management and maintenance services along with building sustainability consulting and implementation. Outsourcing your facilities management services will enable your organization access to technology, innovation, and sustainability practices that they might not have had access to with an in-house team. The right expert can help you implement an entire sustainability program to help you achieve your carbon zero and healthy workplace goals.
Reduce Risk & Increased SafetyBy choosing to outsource your facilities management, organizations reduce the risk they assume by having their internal employees do work that could result in injuries. This leads to lower insurance costs and greater peace of mind knowing you don’t have to manage employees doing high-risk cleaning and maintenance work. Along with reducing risk, a quality facilities management team can also assist with controlled entry, security, and fire safety systems to ensure that your facility is secure, safe, and meets all code requirements.
Focus on What You Do BestMaintaining facilities and the built environment is a challenge every organization must address. As with many other things, organizations must consider if utilizing experts for facilities management is the correct way to go. Businesses are most effective when they focus on something they are good at, and for the great majority of organizations, outsourcing their facilities management will go a long way towards helping them ensure this focus while saving time, energy, and money. There are many things to consider and many intricacies to learn that make outsourcing your facilities management advantageous.
The post How Outsourcing Your Facilities Management Can Save You Time, Energy, and Money first appeared on The Building People.
Our most valuable resource is our people. We empower our team members to be their best and to help us achieve our mission. Meet Shawn Morgal, Senior Program Manager at The Building People! Shawn is a key member of our program management team. He manages various facilities management and operations & maintenance contract teams for […]
The post Employee Q&A: Shawn Morgal first appeared on The Building People.
Defining Operational Excellence In the early days of a startup, operational excellence seems like the ability to get all the priority tasks completed without breaking the bank, at least in our experience. Structured processes, integrated workflows, and planning lag behind the bigger priorities which are to attract talent and pay the bills. Yet, for any […]
The post Striving for Quality? Start with Operational Excellence first appeared on The Building People.
Our most valuable resource is our people. We empower our team members to be their best and to help us achieve our mission. Meet Sarah Armellino, Junior Proposal Manager at The Building People! Sarah is an invaluable member of our Growth team. She was recently promoted to Junior Proposal Manager in part because of her […]
The post Employee Q&A: Sarah Armellino first appeared on The Building People.
In today’s tight job market, how you go about executing your hiring and retention strategy will help ensure that you’re not only finding the talent you need but keeping the talent you already have. We’ve assembled some of our top Hiring and Retention Tips so you can help your team architect a winning recruiting strategy. […]
The post Hiring and Talent Retention Tips first appeared on The Building People.
It’s that time of year again! Pull out the pen and tell your employees what you think about them! It’s either “you’re doing great, and I’ve got to give you a raise” or “you’re terrible at your job, and we need to make a change,” But it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are […]
The post The Joy of Employee Reviews first appeared on The Building People.
The movement to make facilities more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly is gaining momentum daily. With this movement has come the development, maturity, and immense growth of the smart buildings industry. Most people have probably heard the term “smart building,” but they may not be sure exactly what makes a building “smart.” Simply put, smart […]
The post What Are Smart Buildings? first appeared on The Building People.