With most of the nation under Shelter-in-Place orders, employees traveling to or from job sites or even on job sites may be questioned by local authorities regarding their status as essential workers. Connex has created a letter template member companies can use as documentation for authorities. This letter should be updated to include the member company name and contact information. Download the template here.
Category: Connex News
Connex postpones CONNEX2020 National Conference to 2021
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated effects across our country and following extensive deliberations and consideration by the Connex Board of Directors & staff, Connex is unable to move forward with CONNEX2020 National Conference.
DALLAS, TX – March 25, 2020– Connex, the multi-site facilities network, formerly known as PRSM, has announced that it is postponing CONNEX2020 National Conference to 2021.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated effects nationwide and following extensive deliberations and consideration by the Connex Board of Directors and staff, Connex is unable to move forward with CONNEX2020 National Conference. No suitable resort was available to reschedule CONNEX2020 this year.
Therefore, the next Connex National Conference will be CONNEX2021 and is scheduled for April 19-21, 2021 at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, National Harbor, MD (Washington D.C. area).
“The health and safety of our members, our communities and staff are of utmost importance. This was not an easy decision, but is supported by all of us, that moving forward to the 2021 conference is the best option to ensure a successful event for our attendees, speakers, and sponsors,” said Myriah Kingen, Director of Facilities Management, DaVita Kidney Care and Connex Board Chair.
”The Connex team continues to work with our members and conference partners to streamline the processes related to the postponement of CONNEX2020. Our goal is to address any concerns as quickly and efficiently as possible. Members should check our website for updates regarding this process,” Bill Yanek, Connex CEO.
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Connex is the leading membership organization for multi-site facilities managers and supplier professionals. Established in 1995, and based in Irving, TX, Connex empowers facilities management professionals with events, best practices, benchmarking, education, discussion forums and trusted partnerships. Members depend upon Connex to help them achieve greater success and a competitive advantage through quality programs and resources. For more information visit www.connexfm.com.
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Connex adds COVID-19 job postings to Career Connexion
Multiple Connex retailers have thousands of job openings targeting the COVID-19 crisis. We have now added links to their job sites on Career Connexion. If you have job openings or seeking employment please visit Career Connexion today.
Connex helps retailers manage closed stores
Thousands of retail stores have closed recently due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Connex, the multi-site facilities network, is helping retailers manage these “dark stores” to protect both retailer assets and the public.
DALLAS, TX – March 20, 2020– Connex, the multi-site facilities network, formerly known as PRSM, is helping retailers closing thousands of stores by providing guidance in how to protect store assets and the public.
In recent years, according to an extensive FM industry study conducted by Connex, the average retailer closed only 17 store locations annually. In the last month at least 110 retailers have closed thousands of locations. These locations are commonly referred to as “dark stores.”
Top Dark Store Challenges for Retailers
· Security
· Systems management (HVAC, water, electric)
· Exterior maintenance and landscaping
· Ongoing site assessment
“Connex is here to help FMs manage dark stores,” said Bill Yanek, Connex CEO. “We have the specialized resources and connections with the suppliers multi-site FMs need to manage dark stores or other closed properties.
We will host a live, online broadcast, Monday, March 23 at 1 P.M. CDT to address dark store management. Tuesday’s show will discuss security for dark stores. On Wednesday we will tackle cleaning issues created by COVID-19” said Yanek.
Connex has also created two online communities. In the first community, any Connex member can share information, ask questions and get advice. The second community is reserved for multi-site retail facilities managers only to provide a private community to ask for recommendations from other retailers on how to best battle the virus. The association has also created a news and resources page dedicated specifically to facilities management news about the coronavirus.
More than 650 supplier companies are Connex members, along with 350 leading retail, entertainment, healthcare and financial companies. [KC1]
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Connex is the leading membership organization for multi-site facilities managers and supplier professionals. Established in 1995, and based in Irving, TX, Connex empowers facilities management professionals with events, best practices, benchmarking, education, discussion forums and trusted partnerships. Members depend upon Connex to help them achieve greater success and a competitive advantage through quality programs and resources. For more information visit www.connexfm.com.
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Connex helps retailers impacted by coronavirus share information
Retailers across North America have implemented new procedures to protect shoppers and employees from the coronavirus (Covid-19). Connex, the multi-site facilities management network, is helping retailers and suppliers connect to share critical information.
DALLAS, TX – March 9, 2020– Connex, the multi-site facilities management network, formerly known as PRSM, is helping retailers protect shoppers and employees from the coronavirus by providing them resources and the ability to connect, ask questions, share vital information, experiences and recommendations.
Protecting shoppers and employees is the number one priority for retailers. While proven methods of cleaning and sanitizing are helpful, new methods and new products are introduced almost daily.
Connex helps multi-site facilities management (FM) pros by providing leading-edge information and resources, and an easy way for them to connect and share information.
“Factual, useful information, about how to protect shoppers and employees is the best weapon we (Connex) can provide our multi-site FM members,” said Bill Yanek, Connex CEO.
“And, the best, information comes from retailers and suppliers who have successfully managed programs addressing similar issues. We provide that conduit where retailers and suppliers engaged in this battle can share critical information, and ask the important questions, in our online communities.”
Connex has created two online communities. One where any Connex member can share information, ask questions and get advice. The second community is reserved for multi-site retail facilities managers only to provide them a private community to ask for recommendations from other retailers on how to best battle the virus. The association has also created a news and resources page dedicated specifically to facilities management news about the coronavirus.
More than 650 supplier companies are Connex members, along with 350 leading retail, entertainment, healthcare and financial companies. Connex also provides retailers a wide range of events and resources ranging from white papers to online tools and best practices.
Women in Action: Jessica Fumo, Tattoo Removal Partners
In honor of International Women’s Day on March 8, the Connex Women in Action Committee is launching an interview series of Connex Women in Action. The inaugural interview is with WIA Committee Co-Chair, Jessica Fumo, Manager of Facilities, Tattoo Removal Partners.
What led you to this career?
In college, one of my professors referred me for an internship in the “physical plant” of the college. I had no clue what that meant and was kind of scared of whatever I was getting myself into but I was honored to be referred and was happy to have the opportunity. I loved it and due to unfortunate circumstances in the office, after just a couple weeks I ran the office solo. I was forced to think outside the box, I planted my ideas, learned a lot (like what HVAC was ha!), built the BEST relationships, and learned how to deal with different personalities and still get my job done. It was an amazing experience, and where it all started 15 years ago! Thank you to Mrs. Longhi!
What’s a work-related accomplishment that you’re really proud of?
I am most proud (and not sure what can top it) of being awarded the 2019 Young Professional of the Year award for PRSM. From being nominated then actually winning the award, I have never been more humbled and proud.
What energizes you outside of work?
My kids. They have gifted me the best job and the only job I was meant to have and that’s being their mother. I enjoy coaching them in sports (and life!), being their support system (through the good, bad and the ugly!), teaching them and being real with them. They are my reason to keep going and also the reason I have bags under my eyes but they’re worth it!
What three words would your friends use to describe you?
Sincere, Competitive, Optimistic (I did take a poll for this question and one special friend gave me their 3 words to best describe me as “extremely high maintenance” and I cannot confirm or deny that statement! 😊
If you could only eat one item for every meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Filet Mignon!
What would you do (for a career) if you weren’t doing this?
I would venture to the business development world in our industry. I love connecting with people and who better to “sell” a service than someone who has been on the other side, doing it for 15 years and knows many in’s and out’s of the business. It would be natural to me (I think!)
Join the Women in Action Online Community to stay up-to-date with the WIA Community and connect with women in the industry.
Connect with WIA at CONNEX2020
- Join the Committee for a special Women in Action Networking event, Monday, April 20 at 1:30 – 3:00 PM.
- The Women Action Committee and Connex Foundation will be selling Flower Brooch Pins to fundraise for the Woman In Action Scholarship to be awarded in 2021.
The Connex Women in Action Committee supports the advancement and introduction of women into the facilities management industry through Giving Back, Professional Development and Networking.
Connex launches new Career Connexion service
Whether you are looking for new employees or a new job, Connex can help.
Employers can post jobs on the new Career Connexion site and job seekers can post confidential resumes. Jobs posted will appear at the bottom of Inside Connex, Connex Weekly and the Connex Canada newsletters each week. A link to online resumes will also be included in each newsletter.
Career Connexion will be your most affordable, direct link to hundreds of potential new employees and to the hottest jobs available. Details are outlined below:
Free job postings for Connex Multi-Site FM members – Connex Multi-site FMs can post jobs on Career Connexion for free.
Connex Suppliers pay only $100 – for a single 30-day job post and only $200 to post three different jobs for a 90-day period.
Non-Connex member Multi-site FM rates – $100 for a 30-day job posting and $200 for three job postings for 90-days.
Non-member Supplier rates – $200 for a 30-day job posting and $300 for three, 90-day job postings.
Job Seekers – no charge to post a resume, search jobs or set up email alerts.
Employers must register by clicking here and complete the registration process. Once registered, employers may post jobs, manage applications, search resumes on file with Career Connexion and set up email alerts.
Employers also have access to branding solutions, job posting videos and the ability to bulk post more than 10 jobs at a time.
Job Seekers must also register and can do so here. Following registration job seekers have two options to display their resume documents. They can create profile or upload their resume document. Based upon the privacy level, selected by the job seeker, the site will either not show their information (private setting), display a profile without contact information (confidential), or display all information (public). Posting resumes or profiles is free.
Job seekers also have access to career coaching, resume writing and reference checking services. The cost of these services varies and are clearly stated on Career Connexion.
Payment – Paying for job postings is easy – simply use a credit card.
Connex Announces Women in Action Committee
Connex is proud to announce the Women in Action Committee, which supports the advancement and introduction of women into the facilities management industry through Giving Back, Professional Development and Networking.
The Committee’s initiatives will be highlighted at CONNEX2020 National Conference.
- Join the Committee for a special Women in Action Networking event, Monday, April 20 at 1:30 – 3:00 PM.
- The Women Action Committee and Connex Foundation will be selling Flower Brooch Pins to fundraise for the Woman In Action Scholarship to be awarded in 2021.
Join the Women in Action Online Community to stay up-to-date with the WIA Community and connect with women in the industry.
Committee
- Co-Chairs
o Jamie Delli Santi, Rubicon Global
o Andrea Fish, Service Repair Specialists, Inc.
o Jessica Fumo, Tattoo Removal Partners
- Members
o Cathy Frantz, National Maintenance Services, Inc.
o Jason Miller, The Buckle, Inc.
o Alex Pegnato, Pegnato Roof Intelligence Network
o Angeli Cabreros, Tapestry, Inc.
Networking Taskforce
- Taskforce Leader
o Connie Jon, Industrious
- Members
o Jill Woodside, Cushman & Wakefield
o Stacy Brown, Global Facility Management & Construction
o Alexandra DiPietro, Herc Rentals
o Nicki Frank, Thoreau Services, Inc.
Professional Development Taskforce
- Taskforce Leader
o Stefanie Driscoll, Ferrandino & Son
- Members
o Kiira Belonzi, Branded Group, Inc.
o Deanne Barker, Best Buy Canada Ltd
o Dana Dicintio, ALDO Group
Give Back Taskforce
- Taskforce Leader
o Tom Kay, ENTOUCH
- Members
o Ashley McConnell, Officetrax
o Shannon Prato, SMG Holdings
o Susan Hecht, SMS Assist
o Kim Whittemore, Construction Specialties and Design, LLC
Stefanie Driscoll becomes first Connex member to earn ProFM Certification
Stefanie Driscoll, Vice President, Client Relations, Ferrandino & Son, Inc., is the first Connex member to earn the prestigious ProFM Certification. The foundation of the ProFM® credential is the ProFM Body of Knowledge, which defines the 19 functional FM knowledge areas and five cross-functional competencies required of today’s facility professionals.
Driscoll learned about the ProFM certification while attending the 2019 Connex Road Show, secured approval to pursue the credential in July, 2019, and began studying for the ProFM exam. “This program allowed me to study when I had the time while maintaining my very busy schedule. I am married and have a 9 year-old daughter and almost 8 year-old son who are very active in sports. So, my schedule is packed every day. I am extremely dedicated to my career and felt this would be a great addition to my resume”, she said.
It took Driscoll five months to study the five modules, complete the online quizzes and the final two ProFM assessments. “While I had to study a lot, the program is well designed for working FMs, and capitalizes on what you already know while helping you focus on areas where you may need to learn more.” The first test is a knowledge exam, which is based upon the materials presented in the study modules. The second test is the application exam, which assesses an FM’s ability to apply what you have learned in real-life scenarios.
When asked about the difficulty of the exams, Driscoll said, “Everyone’s FM experience is different. I needed to study to gain knowledge in FM areas where I had not had significant experience. Some FMs may be able to pass the exam without studying too much. However, less experienced FMs may need to study a lot more. The program is very flexible. I was easily able to study anywhere, anytime by using the mobile app on my phone.”
Four members of Ferrandino & Son’s leadership team are now completing the ProFM study course and Driscoll has plans to continue her FM education. “ProFM requires me to participate in 45 hours of continuing education during the next three years. ProFM is very reasonable about how you secure these hours. I can acquire credits as a Taskforce leader on the Connex Women in Action Committee, by helping my colleagues study for the exam, attending educational sessions during CONNEX2020 National Conference and taking online or in-person classes, or other seminars or workshops. I also get credit as a mentor, coach, speaker, for reading books, articles, blogs and other FM educational experiences.”
Driscoll is now an advocate for the ProFM credential. “I would absolutely recommend other FMs complete the ProFM study course and testing,” Driscoll said. “While all of the content does not apply to my current role at Ferrandino & Son, there is a lot that does. Plus, you will discover what you don’t know and that is often more valuable in advancing your career.”
Kevin Smith, COO, Ferrandino & Son, also endorses the ProFM certification program. “We are extremely proud of Stefanie becoming the first Connex member to earn the ProFM credential. It is easy to support high quality FM education programs that advance the FM profession in totality and help our teams excel. Plus, ProFM is recognized across a wide spectrum of experienced industry experts and proven educators,” Smith concluded.
Two great ways to reach CONNEX2020 attendees
Connex has two great ways to reach CONNEX2020 National Conference attendees and virtually every Connex member – advertise in the March/April issue of Connexus Magazine or in the 25th Anniversary Issue. The March/April issue is the perfect way to target attendees before they arrive at the conference, and the 25th Anniversary Issue will be distributed at the 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner and mailed to all Connex members after the conference.
Both of these issues provide an excellent marketing opportunity and will set you apart from your competition. Ads in the March/April issue can drive attendees to your exhibit on the show floor and the 25th Anniversary issue will definitely be a keepsake members will hang onto for years to come. Digital editions of both issues will be made available on ConnexFM.com – which includes clickable ads that drive readers directly to your website.
We are currently offering promotional rates for first time advertisers. Deadlines for advertising in these issues are coming up fast. Email advertising@connexfm.com or call 214-291-3648 to learn more about these and other Connex marketing opportunities.
