Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology -- From Classroom to Career: Real-World Advice for Aspiring FM Graduates

Date:  Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Time:  9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Location:  Tec Centro West (Multipurpose Room)
                   57 Laurel Street, Lancaster, PA

The IFMA Central PA Chapter is proud to continue its partnership with Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology’s Workforce & Economic Development Center by hosting our third Facility Management Career Panel for students in the Facility Maintenance Technology (FMT) program.

This biannual event is designed to connect students—who are just beginning their journey in the FM field—with seasoned professionals who can offer insight, inspiration, and practical advice. These students are gaining hands-on experience in carpentry, HVAC, plumbing, tile work, and painting, and are working toward certifications like OSHA 10-Hour, Lockout/Tagout, Rigging, and Forklift.

Why Attend?

·         Support the next generation of FM professionals

·         Build relationships with emerging talent

·         Share your expertise in a meaningful way

·         Help shape the future of the FM workforce

Event Format:

Following the panel discussion with IFMA member Facility Managers, we will once again hold FM Roundtables during lunch. These small-group discussions give students the opportunity to sit down with FM professionals, ask questions, explore career paths in more detail, and make personal connections in a relaxed setting.

Panel Lineup:

·         Rob Coakley – Operations Manager at Enterprise Holdings

·         Cory Elmore  – Facilities Maintenance Technician at PHEAA

·         Matt Shields, PCSBO – Director of Facilities and Building Operations at School District of Lancaster

·         Julie McGill-Kopp, NCIDQ, LEED AP, FMP – Senior Interior Designer at Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects

Moderator:

·         Marcie Carder, CFM – Group Facilities & Construction Manager at Enterprise Mobility

Event Timeline:

·         9:00–9:15 AM – Arrival and check-in

·         9:15–9:45 AM – Welcome remarks from Thaddeus Stevens and IFMA; introductions

·         9:45–10:45 AM – Panel discussion + Q&A with students

·         11:00–11:30 AM – Lunch + FM Roundtables

Topics of Discussion:

·         Career paths in FM

·         Skills and certifications employers’ value

·         Job search strategies for new grads

·         A day in the life of an FM professional

·         The role of soft skills and networking

·         Advice for career changers and re-entry professionals

Whether you’re looking to hire, mentor, or simply support the future of our profession, we invite you to be part of this impactful event. Let’s continue building a strong, collaborative relationship with Thaddeus Stevens and help these students take their first steps into the FM world.