What does it take to grow from hands-on project work to leading teams and shaping strategy? In this episode, Second Vice Chair President on IFMA's Global Board of Directors, Wayne Whitzell, interviews Trena Ellis, Vice President of Facilities and Physical Security at Safe Credit Union, who shares her career journey across local builds in Northern California to international projects in Bangalore, India.

Trena opens up about the shift from being a doer to becoming a delegator, the power of networking and strong vendor partnerships, and how involvement with organizations like IFMA has expanded her perspective. Along the way, she offers valuable insights for both seasoned leaders and professionals just starting their FM careers.

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by ODP Business Solutions!

Time stamps:

00:00 Introduction and Career Beginnings

00:11 Welcome to Connected FM

01:30 Guest Introduction: Trena Ellis

02:39 Early Career and IFMA Involvement

04:04 Memorable Moments and Lessons Learned

08:04 Major Projects and Challenges

12:24 International Experience in India

20:01 The Importance of Networking and Vendor Relationships

27:55 Leadership and Delegation

33:19 Advice for Aspiring Facility Managers

34:55 Conclusion and Farewell

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How Trena Ellis Led Facility Management Projects in California and India