Art Linkletter summed up professional development perfectly when he said “Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things work out.” Adapt or perish is the mantra for today’s professionals, and so much so for facilities managers who must adjust to a post-COVID workplace, BMS automation and sustainability among other growing trends. Luckily, the internet offers plenty of opportunities for busy FMs looking to expand their skills and adapt. Here are the best online continuing ed resources for FMs in 2021.
LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn’s relatively new online learning platform, LinkedIn Learning, has enough facility management courses to fill the entire year. LinkedIn Learning is $39.99 NZD per month or take advantage of the free 30-day trial. Here are a two courses sure to be popular in 2021:
- “Facilities Management: Social Distancing and PPE”— This course tackles relevant post-COVID challenges like how to change the way people enter buildings, proper placement of hygiene stations and how to avoid cross contamination.
- “Leading Projects”— Cross-functional projects involve being able to structure teams and plans effectively. This course teaches how to define the scope, investigate options, select a course of action and execute a plan.
International Facility Management Association (IFMA)
Eco-friendly buildings and sustainability are now an integral part of the FM profession. That’s why we recommend the IFMA’s “Sustainability Facility Professional” certification program for FMs who want to stay ahead of the curve. The online course teaches how to bring more efficiency, data-driven decision-making and sustainable practices to their clients’ properties. The certification is self-paced and has several prerequisite courses, so it’s perfect for IFMA members who are already certified in FM introduction courses. Visit the IFMA site for more info.
Massey University (NZ)
Massey Uni offers two diplomas in facilities management available through distance learning. The Diploma in Facilities Management (DipFM) is built for new FM professionals just entering the industry who want to strengthen their skills with foundational knowledge, while the Graduate Diploma in Facilities Management (GradDipFM) is aimed at professionals holding a non-FM related tertiary qualification, such as engineering, commerce or science. Both courses are one year full-time, but can be completed part-time. Also, both offer the option to exit at Certificate level on completion of four papers.
Vector Solutions
Training site Vector Solutions has an extensive catalogue of online courses to benefit every level of facility management. If you’re looking for maintenance certification, Vector Solutions’ facilities maintenance courses are specifically created for technicians and building engineers, and they have certification tracks for commercial, industrial or both. FMs needing more general professional development resources can find over 220 classes on leadership, finance, compliance, time management, communication and sexual harassment. Check out Vector Solutions full catalogue of FM training courses.
BOMI Webinars
BOMI International has partnered with online education service Lorman to create a series of live webinars for 2021. These e-Seminars get FMs up to speed on current issues “International Business Codes” and Workplace Bullying/” Fees average around $200 and attendees can add a downloadable recording for future reference. Visit the Lorman website for a complete listing of live webinar topics, times and dates.