ESFM Joins IFMA Foundation in Workforce Development Efforts

 The IFMA Foundation announced that ESFM, an innovative leader in self-performed facilities management, has pledged its support of the Foundation’s Global Workforce Initiative, aimed at filling the growing talent gap in facility management (FM). 

Working in partnership with industries globally, the IFMA Foundation is leading the charge to make FM a career of choice. By collaborating with industry advisors like ESFM, IFMA chapters, and educators, the Foundation, through its Workforce Initiative, strives to increase the number of FM educational pathways, promote the accreditation of college-level FM programs, and bring more people into the rewarding facilities management career pathway. More information can be found at: foundation.ifma.org/global-workforce-initiative. 

“Helping people grow and thrive in facilities management is deeply personal to me,” said David Hogland, President of ESFM and Board Member of the IFMA Foundation. “I came up through the trades and understand the drive to build a career that provides purpose and stability. ESFM is proud to stand alongside IFMA in support of the Global Workforce Initiative—advancing the next generation of FM professionals by creating real pathways for learning, development and long-term success.” 

ESFM is committed to developing talent at every level, providing programs that support career advancement and professional growth. These include:  

• A signature Frontline Development Program – a 16-week course that equips high-potential hourly associates with the skills needed to take the next step in their careers. Since its launch in 2023, more than 100 team members have graduated to move into salaried, managerial roles.  
• A national mentorship network designed to guide and support team members across career stages.  
• A voluntary English as a Second Language (ESL) program that removes barriers to communication and advancement.  

“The IFMA Foundation is pleased to work with ESFM on this critical effort to ensure the continued sustainability of the facility management profession,” said IFMA Foundation Executive Director Rachel Biundo. “Twelve years ago, sixty percent of facility managers said they planned to retire in five to 10 years. Today, the average age of facility managers is age 50 or older. The talent gap is only going to get wider and without decisive action, this shortage could impact industries worldwide. We are proud to collaborate with ESFM, utilizing the firm’s global reach on this critical initiative to attract and grow future talent.” 

With more than 6,500 team members serving high-profile clients in industries like technology, life sciences, oil and gas, and manufacturing, ESFM is not only shaping the future of facilities management – it’s investing in the people who will lead it. 

About the IFMA Foundation 
Established in 1990 as a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation and separate entity from the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), the IFMA Foundation is a United Nations Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) with special consultative status. The IFMA Foundation works for the public good to develop and promote educational and training opportunities in facility management to grow future leaders in the industry and meet the impending talent gap. The IFMA Foundation is supported by the generosity of the FM community including IFMA members, chapters, councils, corporate sponsors, and private contributors who share the belief that education and research improve the FM profession. To learn more about the IFMA Foundation, visit www.foundation.ifma.org.