If You Go
Facility Fusion Canada
When March 18–19
Where Westin Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario
Facility Fusion D.C.
When April 15–17
Where Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center, Washington, DC
This year for the first time, the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) is hosting two Facility Fusion events—one in Canada and one in the United States, each in that country’s capital city (the events will take place March 18-19 and April 15-17 in Ottawa, Ontario, and Washington, DC, respectively).
A Look at Policy
Because both are held in capital cities, IFMA is focusing on public policy and advocacy, especially in Washington, DC, where there will be a dedicated government track. “For eco-minded participants, a behind-the-scenes look at the government policies that drive sustainability will provide not only valuable strategic information, but inspiration as well,” says Jed Link, a communications manager for IFMA.
“When it comes to facility management, sustainability is no longer an afterthought to the nuts and bolts of business necessity,” Link says. Attendees will find that elements of sustainability are woven throughout the entire IFMA conference, including an educational session offered at both Facility Fusion events on how to integrate sustainability into the industry’s core competencies.
Sustainable Exhibitors
IFMA is also careful to take sustainability into account in organizing its events. IFMA encourages its partners, exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees to do their part in reducing their carbon footprint. “We are proud of our efforts to encourage sustainable practices among our exhibitors,” Link says. “In fact, Facility Fusion DC boasts a Sustainable Exhibitor Program, which raises awareness of environmentally friendly exhibition practices by recognizing their efforts.” Those interested in learning how to maximize energy efficiency and compare their buildings to those managed by other IFMA members can participate in IFMA’s Energy Star Challenge.
Learning from Leaders
Facility Fusion is also a powerful opportunity to network with some of the brightest minds in the industry. Attendees will be able to connect with the growing number of facility managers who have earned the Sustainability Facility Professional, or SFP, credential to learn more about the program. “The SFP remains the only credential of its kind, as it offers strategies for those charged with operating sustainable facilities instead of focusing on the facilities themselves,” Link says.
Attendees of the DC event shouldn’t miss “Power Speaker” Jason Roberts, head of the Oak Cliff Transit Authority and creator of the Better Block Project, an initiative that started by transforming rundown areas in southern Dallas into temporary walkable districts with pop-up businesses, bike lanes, café seating, and landscaping and has become an international movement.
