I hope that everyone is enjoying a safe summer and taking some time to do a little vacationing! Since our “Sizzling Summer Social” back on June 29th we have experienced some record temperatures here in Atlanta. As I was sitting at home I was watching the news, in particular the weather forecast. The meteorologist stated that Atlanta may hit or break a new record for the longest stretch of temperature over 90°. If Atlanta hits this particular record it could last for the next hundred years. This one season in time or precise moment could redefine Atlanta’s weather patterns possibly for the next century, what an impact!
These record temperatures got me thinking about breaking records and reaching goals not only in my personal life, but also for IFMA Atlanta. This year will be a trend setting year for the Atlanta chapter as well. We are embarking on a new frontier and revamping different programs such as the monthly meetings and updating the website to name a few. Making changes are never easy, and can be as unpredictable as the weather. However, positive changes are essential for the growth of our chapter and the professional development of our members. We’re hoping that these changes will make a lasting impact and continue to make the Atlanta chapter a trend setter for other IFMA chapters internationally.
With that said, we are rolling out some of our new changes in the Atlanta chapter this month. We have an exciting tour at the new Porsche headquarters. This particular event was sold out the same week that it was announced at our Sizzling Summer Social. We hate to turn members away for any IFMA event so we are pleased to announce that we have 3 more tours tentatively planned for 2016 and 3 more for 2017. We think that these upcoming tours will be as exciting as the Porsche Tour, but as you have seen, these tours sell out quick.
As for education opportunities, please mark your calendar for February 17th for our Atlanta Workplace 2017. Aaron Davis, who is the Committee Chairperson, has done a great job getting us ready for this event. We do Atlanta Workplace every two years so if you miss this opportunity then the next Atlanta Workplace won’t be until 2019! We will have 3 tracks to choose from which will cover: Sustainability, Operations & Maintenance and Interior Design. We are also working on educational luncheons for September and November. We are working on programs that can be IACET certified which means that you will be able to get Continuing Education Credits for attending. More information to follow as we firm up the details.
Conveying of information is paramount for any organization. Five years ago our website was on the cutting edge of technology. Presently, it still serves a purpose but is behind the times both in appearance and keeping up with all the new technology that has been developed over the years. In response, Teresa Cox and Debi Gilbert, Communication Co-Chairs, have been working on a new look and a complete revamp of IFMA Atlanta’s website. They have come up with some great concepts and work on the new website should begin in the next 3-4 weeks. We are excited about the progress being made and will keep you posted on the changes!
In closing I just want the membership to know that the leadership of IFMA Atlanta is focused on creating events that encourage record turn-outs and opportunities to network. I have only addressed a few of the upcoming changes, but be advised we have more exciting news coming down the pike. Stay tuned!
