13 December 2023

Empow-Her-Ing Excellence: FM Solutions Technical's All-Women Team Revolutionises Facilities Management

Submitted by: Monique Holtzhausen
Empow-Her-Ing Excellence: FM Solutions Technical's All-Women Team Revolutionises Facilities Management

In the world of Facilities Management (FM), where technical expertise and reliability are paramount, FM Solutions Technical is once again emerging as a trailblazing player, setting a new standard for diversity and competence in the industry. With an exciting new offering that boasts an all-women team in FM maintenance, FM Solutions is challenging stereotypes and redefining what it means to excel in the realm of facilities management.

“Facilities Management comprises a wide range of services and duties that are critical to the smooth and efficient operation of any business or organisation. It includes everything from physical asset maintenance and repair, such as HVAC systems, plumbing and drainage, and electrical reticulation, to administrative activities such as project management, space allocation, and health and safety compliance. In essence, FM guarantees that an organisation's physical environment is conducive to its aims and objectives. Facilities Management is concerned with making assets and infrastructure perform efficiently and cost-effectively, as well as creating a safe and comfortable environment for everyone who visit the area. In this context, FM Solutions Technical is establishing a reputation as a leader in the industry by forming an all-women maintenance team, challenging the historically male-dominated FM space,” says Lydia Hendricks, Director at FM Solutions.

Zaahir Forbes, Director at FM Solutions Technical confirms this statement, saying: “FM Solutions Technical has a well-earned reputation for being a results-driven organisation, with a commitment to performance excellence with every job at hand, and the ability to think creatively whenever obstacles are encountered. This ground-breaking move further emphasises our company's commitment to performance excellence, creative problem-solving, and diversity”.

Although the use of technology has in recent years greatly impacted the field of Facilities Management, Zaahir emphasizes the enduring importance of a personal touch.

“The consolidation of FM services offered by a team of sensitive, caring, and highly trained women is a game-changer which provides clients with a unique skill set combined with a warm and personal approach. This all-women technical team is not merely breaking barriers; they are proving that competence and excellence know no gender. Their technical expertise, coupled with their ability to multitask and address sensitive areas, has enriched FM Solutions Technical and empowered a new generation of women in technical roles,” Zaahir says.

Brendon Nortjé, Key Account Manager at FM Solutions Technical, underscores the exceptional qualifications and performance of the female technicians, stating that the decision to hire each one of the female team members was solely based on merit.

“Each member of this diverse and skilled team has been hand-picked for their unique talents, expertise and ability to handle various technical maintenance tasks. From initial call logging to plumbing, HVAC, and electrical maintenance and procurement, these women know how to tackle every problem that comes their way. Their presence has positively influenced their areas of work and responsibility, but also provides us with a competitive edge, especially in sensitive areas like female dormitories and restrooms,” Brendon says.

FM Solutions Technical's all-women team is not just fixing facilities; they are shattering prejudices and inspiring a transformation in the facilities management industry. Their story is a testament to the power of diversity, competence, and relentless pursuit of excellence, setting a shining example for the industry and beyond.

"I think the facilities management sector is at a turning point right now. In addition to changing the dynamics of our workplace, these women's diversity of abilities and dedication to excellence have empowered more women to assume technical roles that have historically been associated with the appointment of a male counterpart. They have also single-handedly challenged and changed the industry for the better. As they continue to excel and deliver superior results, our “girl power" team is proving that diversity and competence go hand in hand. In a world where gender should never be a barrier to achievement, they are setting a shining example for the facilities management industry and beyond. This is true empowerment and a long overdue transformation that can inspire us all to break down barriers, challenge norms, and pursue excellence relentlessly,” Lydia concludes.