In FY24, IFMA continued to build on its legacy of excellence by empowering facility management professionals worldwide through research, benchmarking and collaboration. Our community, driven by a commitment to best practices, remains focused on improving facility performance, operational efficiency and resilience across the built environment. Through events, publications, webinars and partnerships with global subject matter experts, IFMA provides access to critical resources that help members and nonmembers alike stay informed on industry-leading insights and methodologies.

IFMA’s research efforts are a cornerstone of these initiatives. With several significant reports released this year, including “The Company Value of Credentials” and the “North American Medical Center Facility Support Services Benchmarking Report,” we have solidified our position as the most trusted source of academic and applied research for the FM industry. These reports continue to support professionals in justifying best practices, securing organizational buy-in and advancing their careers. Our work on career-focused credentials, for example, has underscored the value and integrity of IFMA’s certifications, demonstrating tangible returns on investment for both individuals and employers.

As we look ahead, we recognize the increasing urgency of environmental stewardship. IFMA’s engagement in the global discussion on sustainability — particularly around waste prevention and reduction — is vital to the future of facility management. With initiatives such as The Ocean Clean Up, IFMA members are showing the world how FM can drive real, meaningful change. Our collaboration with organizations focused on circular economies and waste reduction highlights the role facility managers play in leading efforts to address pressing environmental challenges, including plastic waste in our oceans and carbon reduction.

In addition to environmental stewardship, FY24 marked a historic year for our commitment to supporting U.S. military veterans transitioning into the FM profession. The launch of IFMA’s Military Community provided a critical resource to a group of individuals whose skills and leadership align perfectly with facility management. With military experience directly translating into project management, strategic thinking and problem-solving within FM roles, this community serves as both a support system and a beacon for career development. Our “U.S. Military Veterans in Facility Management: Salary and Compensation Report” offers vital information to help veterans navigate their transition and secure competitive, rewarding careers in FM.

FY24 was a year of transformation and impact for IFMA, with our continued focus on research, sustainability and workforce development. As we move into FY25, we remain committed to our vision of making the world a better place through leadership in the built environment. Our collective actions as facility managers will not only influence the efficiency and sustainability of the spaces we manage but will also contribute to the overall health and well-being of our planet.