The facility management challenges swirling around hospitals these days can seem overwhelming. From COVID-19 issues and personal protective equipment shortages to ransomware attacks and scrutiny of HVAC systems, managers have more than a plateful of issues to handle. Underlying all of it, though, is ensuring they have the staffing to carry out their duties. 

Hospital facilities and engineering departments are in constant competition with other fields for qualified technicians. But a hospital system can provide a unique career path for a technician, as well as benefits and opportunities that other industries may not offer, according to Health Facilities Management. 

Providing a path to a fulfilling career as well as training opportunities to expand knowledge and skills help to keep employees engaged and motivated. Hospital systems should highlight these advantages to recruit and retain technical staff. 

With the rising rate of retiring baby boomers, finding ways to bring in new technical staff is critical. There are several different avenues to find competent, qualified technicians that can be an asset to a health facilities management team from day one.

For example, managers can partner with a local community college or trade school. Community colleges are a great way to connect with students who are trying out different classes and searching for their career paths. Facilities leaders should consider reaching out to these colleges and asking if they can speak to HVAC, electrical, construction, welding, or business or management classes to introduce these students to a career in healthcare engineering.

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