From Classroom to Career: Real-World Advice for Aspiring FM Graduates
June 04, 2025
9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
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Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
750 E King Street
Lancaster, PA 17602
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IFMA Central PA Chapter is proud to partner with Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology to host a special Facility Management Career Panel—and we’re inviting our fellow IFMA members to be part of it!

We’ll be talking directly with students from the Facility Maintenance Technology (FMT) program as they near graduation, offering them insight, encouragement, and a glimpse into the career opportunities that await them. These students have been immersed in hands-on training in carpentry, HVAC, plumbing, tile work, and painting—and they’re graduating in mid-June with industry-recognized certifications like OSHA 10-Hour, Lockout/Tagout, Rigging, and Forklift.
Why Attend?
- Show your support for the next generation of FM professionals
- Build your talent pipeline—these students are ready to work!
- Network with fellow members and industry partners
- Share your insights and participate informally in post-panel conversations
This is more than just a panel—it's a chance to connect, inspire, and maybe even recruit.
Panel Lineup:
- Tom Koontz – Maintenance Manager at Kalmbach Feeds
- Russ Acri – Senior Facilities Maintenance Manager at Members 1st FCU
- Bryan Glatfelter, CFM, FMP – Senior Facilities Manager at Ephrata National Bank
- Jolene Fink, CFM – Senior Manager of Workplace Strategy at PHEAA
Moderator:
- Marcie Carder, CFM – Group Facilities & Construction Manager at Enterprise Mobility
Schedule Overview:
- 9:00–9:30 AM – Arrival and check-in
- 9:30–9:40 AM – Introduction to IFMA
- 9:40–11:00 AM – Panel + Q&A with students
- 11:00–11:30 AM – Lunch + Student Networking
Topics of Discussion:
- How each panelist got started in the FM field
- In-demand skills and certifications employers value
- Job search tips for new graduates
- A “day in the life” of an FM professional
- The importance of soft skills and networking
- Advice for those changing careers or those re-entering the workforce
Whether you're hiring, mentoring, or simply want to support the future of our profession, we’d love to see you there. Let’s show these students the strength and heart of the local IFMA community.
Tickets
$0.00 Member Registration
$20.00 Non-Member Registration
$0.00 First Time Invited Guest