New FM Framework offers IFMA members training in a range of specialty areas

The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) is pleased to announce the launch of its expanded Facility Management Training and Development Framework (FM Framework). IFMA has created a single source for interdisciplinary knowledge- and skill-building by partnering with 8 of the most well-respected and influential organizations in the built environment industry.

The FM Framework provides industry-leading training from IFMA’s partner organizations that is relevant to all built environment practices.  FMs now have direct access to top training solutions in disciplines that fall under the umbrella of FM responsibility, including cleaning operations, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, security, building repairs, IT and more.

In conjunction with IFMA’s ANSI-accredited credential programs and professional development courses, the framework provides a unified training program that covers the entire life cycle of the built environment.  The brainchild of 2018-19 IFMA Board Chair Graham Tier, CFM, FMP, MRICS, the 2019 FM Framework provided guidance on specialized skillsets. It classified specific roles, mapped the skills needed in facility management and recommended professional development options from a network of associations.

“IFMA has been building bridges across disciplines for years, partnering with associations that have training for FMs and cross-promoting our educational resources,” said IFMA President and CEO Don Gilpin. “The updated FM Framework goes a step further, directing professionals to a specific course or program offered by the industry’s recognized authority in a desired specialty area. Whether you need to dive into a skillset, oversee a specific function within the facility portfolio or meet a particular organizational goal, the framework takes the onus of finding the training off the FM.”

IFMA is relaunching the FM Framework with the following partners:

• International Sanitation Standards Association (ISSA)
• Open Standards Consortium of Real Estate (OSCRE)
• American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
• Audio Visual and Integrated Experience Association (AVIXA)
• Business & Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA)
• Circular Economy Institute (CEI)
• National Environmental Balancing Bureau (NEBB)
• Northwest Energy Efficiency Council (NEEC)

IFMA members who purchase the specified training from a framework partner will receive that organization’s member rate. Reciprocally, framework partner members will receive special pricing on IFMA’s included courses.

“FMs have to ensure their team can perform all of the necessary roles and collaborate effectively with other departments. That takes an understanding of diverse job functions that goes beyond rudimentary knowledge,” added Gilpin. “Upskilling in a range of specialty areas will help FMs adapt to a new work environment, bringing a higher level of excellence to their organizations and themselves.”

IFMA Members should visit ifma.org/professional-development/fm-framework to view the FM Framework. IFMA partners should visit ifma-9196528.hs-sites.com/exclusive-introduction-to-fm-0 to view information on IFMA’s opportunities for partner organizations.