Tricks Of The Trade: Career Advice In A Difficult Employment Climate

By B. Kevin Folsom, CEP
Published in the September 2012 issue of Today’s Facility Manager

Q I have been involved in facilities maintenance for a good portion of my life and have a chance to advance my career. Before I do, I would like to know what degree direction you would recommend?

Jeremiah Connolly
Senior HVACR Tech
Textron Systems
Wilmington, MA

A There are some in the fm world who do not have completed degrees (or degrees at all). Many of these fms operate at a level that runs circles around many with degrees. This is not to say that those with college degrees are not well prepared; a much higher percentage of these folks will be better qualified when compared to those without degrees.

Unfortunately, in the litigious world we live today, it is very difficult for organizations to hire high level fms without some kind of validation of their capabilities in the form of a college degree, even though it may not directly relate.

Most vacant positions of this level often require a degree in engineering or architecture. However, someone with a wide range of FM experience could get by with almost anything in the form of a degree from an accredited institution.