As part of its work to identify career paths for students, the Division of Business and Technology has created a new certificate program in facilities management. With nearly 800 job openings in the Bay Area in the past year, and average salaries over $90,000, there is an opportunity to bring more students into this growing field. The program is off to a great start, with 22 student enrolled in the initial Essentials of Facilities Management course for Spring 2019.

The new program was formally launched November 19 with a Facilities Management Certificate Program and Orientation dinner to introduce students, community members and industry partners to CSM’s program. More than 65 people attended, including faculty, CSM and adult school students, industry professionals, IFMA professionals, CSM facilities management employees, CSM Climate Corp Fellows, JobTrain employees and the Career, Workforce and ACCEL team. The Career and Workforce team enrolled interested individuals on the spot and they continue to offer enrollment support after the event.

A new course is being taught this spring by Christian Pellecchia, vice president of operations for Slatter Construction and an active member of the International Facility Management Association. As part of the class, students will have a free one-year membership in the International Facility Management Association and the opportunity to attend regular IFMA meetings. Christian and our Career and Workforce team will help students connect with job and internship opportunities throughout the semester.