Two Seneca students have launched the International Facility Management Association’s (IFMA) newest student chapter that will help learners pursue careers in the facility management workforce.
The launch of the Seneca College Student Chapter of IFMA is being headed by Klodian Vocaj, a recent graduate of Seneca’s Building Systems Engineering Technician diploma program and Munaf Mansur Awadia, a student in the Mechanical Engineering Technology – Building Sciences advanced diploma program.
“This is most certainly a historic and momentous occasion as we have been involved with the IFMA as members and attending events for many years,” said. Filimon Tsionas of the School of Electronics & Mechanical Engineering Technology. “Dedicated students helped to see this through.”
Students who join the chapter beginning in fall 2020 can look forward to learning outside the classroom as well as scholarship opportunities. The group will enable learners to network and meet industry leaders who could become future mentors and co-workers.
“I am a true believer that a professional organization like IFMA provides a great learning opportunity to help me and other students like myself in further developing our careers in the building industry,” said Vocaj.
He hopes that other post-secondary institutions will join the IFMA community to provide much-needed career support to students in the field.
“This student chapter of IFMA will help build bridges and act as a great networking platform for students and provide them with the right mentorship and guidance, thereby helping them make better career choices,” added Awadia.
The IFMA International Board of Directors approved the new chapter on July 21. The group will be paired with the IFMA Greater Toronto & South Central Ontario Chapter’s Young Professional Program for guidance, oversight and an introduction to the larger facility management community.
“IFMA continues to highlight at both an international and local level the need for young professionals within the facility management industry,” said Shawn Baetz, director, young professionals, IFMA. “With an aging workforce, it is vitally important for succession planning and knowledge among the current workforce and young professionals.”
IFMA’s Young Professional Program will be actively engaged to provide guidance and advice on career and personal development, provide networking and educational opportunities, and increase student’s knowledge of facility management best practices, emerging trends and skills.
