Introduction:
If you’re reading this, you might not have initially considered facility management as a career path. Many people overlook this field, but it’s a hidden gem with immense potential. Unlike traditional careers like medicine or engineering, facility management offers unique opportunities and is a growing field with significant demand.
This article will guide you on how to build a successful career in facility management, including the qualifications needed, where to find the best courses, and how to secure jobs in this exciting field.
Job Description of a Facilities Manager:
A facility manager is responsible for maintaining the safety, productivity, and efficiency of buildings and the people within them. Their role ensures that workplaces are safe, well-organized, and conducive to productivity. Without facility managers, the work environment could become unsafe, leading to decreased productivity and potential hazards for employees.
Why Do You Need a Facility Manager?
Facility managers play a crucial role in enhancing workplace productivity, reducing operational costs, and ensuring employee safety. With the rising demand for qualified professionals in this field, now is the perfect time to consider a career in facility management if you’re interested in creating efficient and safe work environments.
How to Become a Qualified Facility Manager:
What Qualifications Do I Need? Becoming a facility manager requires specific education and training, similar to how aspiring doctors need to study science subjects and undergo internships. In college, focus on management courses such as business, finance, economics, and marketing.
After graduation, gaining professional experience is key. Employers prefer candidates with hands-on experience, so it’s essential to pursue advanced training and certifications in facility management.
Important Certifications in Facility Management:
- Certified Facility Manager (CFM)
- Facility Management Professional (FMP)
- Facility Management Master Craft (FMMC)
These certifications provide practical experience and are highly valued by employers.
Facility Management Training Courses: Here’s a list of some essential courses for facility management certification programs:
- Facility Management Professional
- Facility Management Master Craft Diploma
- Facility Management Master Class
- Facility Management Strategy
- Asset Management / CMMS Practical Training
- Facility Maintenance Management
- Emergency Preparedness and Business Continuity Practical Training
- Generator and Electrical Maintenance Practical Training
- Building Commissioning Operational Readiness
- Air Conditioning Maintenance Practical Training
- Online Assessment Management Certificate Course
- Facility Services Contracting and Procurement Practical Training
- Facility Management Operations
- Facility Management Essentials
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Facilities Management Courses and Training Centers:
Is the Facility Management Certificate Recognized by IFMA? The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) is the global body representing facility managers. Ensure the training center you choose offers certificates recognized by IFMA.
Does the Training Program Offer Specialization? Facility management covers various areas, including sustainability, energy management, asset management, and more. Specializing in a particular area can enhance your expertise and career prospects.
Does the Training Center Offer Hands-On Practical Experience? The best training centers provide hands-on experience, such as field trips, to help you gain practical knowledge beyond classroom theory.
Some centers also offer recruitment opportunities, connecting you with potential employers after completing your training. This combination of classroom learning and field experience makes facility management an adventurous and rewarding career choice.
Where to Take Facility Management Courses:
Many training centers in Lagos and across Nigeria offer facility management courses. One notable center is Max-MiGold, a facility management training, inspection, and technology advisory firm. They are committed to excellence in teaching, learning, and research, helping to develop facility managers who make a difference globally.
Visit their website to explore their courses and find out how to become a certified facility manager.
What Facility Manager Jobs Can I Get with a Facility Management Degree?
Facility managers are in demand across various sectors, including healthcare, education, finance, and more. With a degree in facility management, you can find opportunities in almost any industry that requires building management.
Facility Manager Salary:
Facility management is a well-paying career. According to Salary.com, the average annual salary for a facility manager is $99,200. However, this can vary depending on factors such as experience, education level, and the size of the facility you manage.
Final Thoughts:
Choosing a career in facility management is a decision you won’t regret. While doctors focus on treating health emergencies, facility managers work to prevent such emergencies from occurring by ensuring safe and well-managed environments. If you’re looking for a rewarding and impactful career, facility management is worth exploring.
