FACILITY PROFESSIONAL SPOTHLIGHT
PHIL BRAUN, CFM
How did you get into FM/Accidental FM?
Accidental FM for sure. I worked in the Video/Audio post-production industry for ten years, first in Hollywood and then in the Portland area. I eventually was hired at the Art Institute of Portland to manage the IT department and “inherited” Facilities and one in-house Maintenance Technician. Next, we built out an Audio/Video studio and a culinary teaching kitchen. That was my dip into construction, project management and expanding the facilities team. That grew into the last twenty years managing a team of maintenance techs and Facilities managers for various industries from education, call centers and government offices in the US, Jamaica, and the Philippines.
A highlight of your Facility or Operation:
I am currently managing a team of Mobile Technicians in the Pacific Northwest region. This is challenging work for a few reasons. First, to set standards and accountability to ensure everyone stays safe on the job and at the end of the day go home to their families and friends. Second, working remotely and not always being on site to inspect and ensure the quality of work. Lastly, change. FM’s and maintenance technicians are constantly working through change. Either new policies, new safety features, or new accounts. “Change Management” they actually have a college degree in that now.
A highlight of my FM career:
After decades in the industry, both on the corporate administrative Real Estate side and as a remate Regional Facilities Manager, in 2019 I earned my IFMA CFM (Certified Facilities Manager) accreditation. I applied and was awarded sponsorship from our great local chapter (Oregon/SW Washington) to foot the bill. It’s never too late to learn more about our industry and to grow as a Facilities Manager and Leader.
