A Conversation with APPA CEO Lalit Agarwal

APPA CEO Lalit Agarwal recently spoke with The Chronicle of Higher Education about the vast and diverse career paths in facilities management, emphasizing its crucial role in higher education and the workforce.

Facilities management is more than just maintaining buildings—it encompasses engineering, energy systems, project management, human resources, and beyond. As Lalit shared, the key to student success is capturing their enthusiasm early and providing real-world experience, especially in an industry where skilled labor can be difficult to find.

“Facilities is the most diverse opportunity that any student can get,” says Agarwal. “You can pursue careers in HVAC, renewable energy, electrical systems, project management, and even administrative roles. The breadth of opportunities is immense.”

Bridging Students to Careers in Facilities

College campuses operate like small cities, requiring specialized professionals to manage operations, energy efficiency, and sustainability. These roles often overlap with STEM careers, offering students hands-on experience and pathways into high-demand fields.

Many facilities departments have successfully hired students for hands-on learning, where they gain practical experience in their fields. Whether students are assisting with infrastructure projects, data analysis, or sustainability initiatives, these experiences open doors to long-term career growth.

However, as Agarwal notes, some institutions overlook these opportunities due to concerns over reliability, security, or logistical challenges. Despite this, facilities departments have the potential to shape the next generation of professionals through mentorship and career-building initiatives.

Read the Full Article

To explore the full discussion on preparing students for the future and the breadth of opportunities in facilities management, check out the article here:

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