Live From WWP Orlando 2009!!!

Greetings from Orlando! So far this has been a rock solid World Workplace with great classes, a cutting edge expo-floor and the wonderful opportunities to get to know and learn from talented people in the industry. I was talking with Serena tonight and we came up with a description that it’s like “returning to the hive” to be with our “kind.” It just feels right to be in a room with so many folks who face the same challenges and weather the same storms. Talk about instant camaraderie… It has obviously been a tough year for many of us and the indications are still not all that bright. However, it is plainly obvious that the professional development that IFMA provides is integral to a person’s success in this industry. With the market awash with potential hires, a CFM, FMP and years of training from IFMA education is a huge plus for candidates on the job hunt. Here at WWP, we are gathering information and intelligence to bring back to all of you about trends and influences affecting our industry. Though these tough times look as though they will continue for a while longer, we will take the opportunity to sharpen our skills and keep learning to position us for the future. Tonight, my employer, Corporate Care, graciously hosted a dinner at the Oceanaire for forty facilities professionals. In the room were two IFMA Fellows, a former Chair, numerous Chapter Presidents, VP’s (GO VP’s!) and many committee chairs. As I surveyed the room, I was reminded that the partnerships between value-driven and knowledgeable associate members and the professionals in the chapters are very important. They are important because together we solve problems and drive situations to a “win/win” touchdown each time. They are also important because we get to know each other as friends, each with dreams, hobbies and personalities beyond the FM world. The bottom line is IFMA is chock full of good people who have a damn difficult career. IFMA helps to smooth out the rough edges and pull us together as a family who supports each other to reach our goals. Once again, WWP has demonstrated that this is THE organization for those who manage the built environment. From Orlando, Wayne Whitzell – IFMA Sacramento Chapter VP National Director of Sustainability – Corporate Care








For last year's blog coverage of 2008 WWP in Dallas, click here: http://ifmasac.blogspot.com/2008_10_01_archive.html