Behind the Scenes:

Tools and Tech We Use in Total Facility Management

Carlos G. | BAC Facilities Employee PSFB

By Damion Francis, FMP, MBA, PMP, CLSSGB | Operations Manager | BAC

In September, I had the privilege of attending the IFMA International Conference, where facility management professionals from across the globe came together to share innovations, insights, and strategies. Networking with peers from different countries reinforced one important lesson: “Through networking and sharing international experiences, you can gain invaluable information on different aspects and technical aspects of facilities management”.

The conference provided an exciting opportunity to explore the latest tools and technologies shaping the future of Total Facilities Management (TFM). From hands-on demonstrations to thought-provoking workshops, I gained exposure to advancements that are directly impacting the way we serve our customers at BAC.

Emerging Tools and Technologies in TFM

1. Robotics and Automation Software
   Automation continues to reshape the landscape of facilities management. From cleaning robotics to workflow automation software, these solutions reduce manual workloads, improve accuracy, and free up our staff to focus on higher-value tasks.
2. Coil Cleaning Solvents and HVAC Innovation
   Indoor air quality and energy efficiency remain a top priority. Demonstrations on coil-cleaning solvents and Certified Energy Management best practices showed how cutting-edge cleaning solutions and HVAC technology improvements can extend equipment life, lower costs, and promote healthier environments.
3. Electronic Heat Control
   As sustainability becomes non-negotiable, electronic heat control solutions are playing a central role in reducing energy waste and supporting green initiatives.
4. Key Control and Office Space Management
   The security and efficient use of space are foundational elements of facility management. New key control systems and office space optimization tools highlight how data-driven insights can enhance both safety and productivity.

One clear takeaway from IFMA is that the Facility Management Professional (FMP) credential has become the industry standard. Facility management continues to evolve, and organizations, including the U.S. government, are increasingly relying on contractors certified by IFMA to ensure excellence, compliance, and trust. Professional certifications demonstrate not only technical knowledge but also a commitment to continuous improvement and service quality.

The U.S. Federal Government is one of the largest owners and operators of real estate in the world, maintaining millions of square feet across agencies, bases, training centers, and office complexes. Rather than managing every facility function internally, the government turns to total facilities management contractors who can deliver turnkey services that cover everything from custodial and maintenance to energy management and space optimization.

Federal customers expect:

• Certified expertise – Contractors with FMP, CFM, and other IFMA-backed credentials are prioritized to ensure best-in-class practices.
• Operational reliability – Agencies rely on TFM partners to maintain mission readiness with zero downtime.
• Cost efficiency – Outsourced models allow for streamlined budgeting, predictable costs, and better return on taxpayer dollars.
• Compliance & accountability – Contractors must align with strict federal regulations, safety standards, and reporting requirements.

At BAC, our role as a trusted TFM partner is evidenced by the scope of contracts we support nationwide:

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) – ensuring veterans and their families have safe, well-maintained environments across VA clinic facilities.
• U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown – supporting readiness and mission-critical training through custodial and facilities services.
• NASA Facilities –Kennedy Space Center in Florida and Langley Research Center in Virginia, supporting America’s space program and future innovation.

• Department of Defense (DoD) – Delivering mission-critical services across multiple branches and facilities nationwide:
• Florida: Patrick Space Force Base, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Naval Air Station Pensacola, Hurlburt Field, and Naval Air Station Whiting Field.
• North Carolina: Fort Liberty providing services for three elementary schools and one middle school under the Department of Defense Education Activity.
• Puerto Rico: Fort Buchanan.
• Florida Department of Transportation – Providing services at rest stops and weigh stations across five Florida counties.

By investing in certifications and staying current with industry technologies, BAC demonstrates that we are not just keeping pace with government expectations, we are anticipating them.

While the technical sessions were invaluable, the conference also offered opportunities to connect with leaders across industries. One highlight for me was meeting Daymond John from Shark Tank. His insight was straightforward yet powerful: Facility management is the key to success. That message reinforced the vital role we play in supporting organizations and communities every day.

The tools and technologies driving TFM today are exciting, but just as important are the people behind them, the professionals who dedicate themselves to learning, adapting, and leading with excellence. As an Army Veteran and operations manager at BAC, I take pride in bringing these lessons back to my team and applying them to better serve our customers.

By investing in the latest tools, adopting best practices, and committing to ongoing education, BAC continues to deliver on its promise of operational excellence for the federal, state, and commercial customers we support.