ConnexFM2026 Submission Review and Selection Process
The selection process for ConnexFM2026 involves a thorough review of every complete presentation submitted before the deadline. To be considered, submissions must include the following:
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Content Leader (Speaker) Profiles: This includes a bio, photo, credentials, and contact information for each session content leader.
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Session Descriptions: A clear and concise description of the proposed session.
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Actionable Learning Objectives: Specific takeaways or skills attendees will gain from the session.
Submissions are evaluated based solely on the information provided. It is essential that all instructions are followed carefully, and all requested details are included. Incomplete submissions will not be considered. Additionally, proper grammar, punctuation, and overall presentation quality are key components of the evaluation process.
ConnexFM typically receives a high volume of presentation proposals for the National Conference, far exceeding the number of available session slots. As a result, only the most exceptional and well-prepared presentations are selected for inclusion in the conference program.
ConnexFM Non-Commercialization Policy
Please keep in mind ConnexFM has a strict non-commercialization policy. ConnexFM educational experiences are not an opportunity to promote a brand or sell a product or service.
Presentation Submission Guidelines
The ConnexFM Thought Leadership Committee will oversee the review and selection of presentation abstracts for ConnexFM2026. All submissions will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
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Submission Completeness and Timeliness
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The presentation proposal must be complete and submitted by the designated deadline.
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Audience and Topic Alignment
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The session's learning level must be appropriate for both the audience and the topic.
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Actionable Learning Outcomes
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Submissions must clearly identify three actionable learner outcomes using the format:
"After participating in this session, attendees will be able to…"
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Turnkey Solutions
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The presentation must include practical, ready-to-use solutions that attendees can quickly adopt and implement. Examples include:
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"Attendees will leave with an assessment tool that can be easily tailored and adopted."
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"Attendees will leave with a step-by-step process for effectively onboarding new team members."
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Content Quality
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Content should be focused, tailored to the audience, current, practical, or innovative.
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Supplier Submissions
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Industry suppliers submitting proposals must be ConnexFM members to be eligible.
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Suppliers are strongly encouraged to include a facility manager as a co-presenter for their session.
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External Speaker Policy
External speakers—those who are not ConnexFM members and have a commercial interest—are typically not eligible to present unless they meet one of the following exceptions:-
The external speaker is a professional speaker whose primary business is speaking.
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The external speaker has a reciprocal partnership with ConnexFM.
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The external speaker is a non-member exhibitor/supplier who has paid to attend ConnexFM2026 as a non-exhibiting supplier.
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By adhering to these guidelines, your submission will have a stronger chance of being considered for inclusion in the ConnexFM2026 program.
ConnexFM2026’s Target Audience
Facility Managers:
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Retail
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Banking/Financial
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Restaurant/Grocery
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Entertainment
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Fitness
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Healthcare
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Multi-Site Organizations
Suppliers:
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Maintenance & Repair
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Janitorial
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Emergency Services
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Equipment Manufacturers
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Technology Services
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Sustainability
Other Professionals:
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Multi-Site Facility Architects
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Multi-Site Facility Engineers
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Multi-Site Facility Consultants
Content Topic Areas
Presentations must also align with one of the following content topic areas, ensuring relevance and value for the audience.
The Evolving Professional
This track focuses on enhancing personal and professional skills to drive success in one’s work and personal life.
Focus Areas Include:
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Core project management principles for planning, executing, and delivering successful initiatives.
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Strategies for time management and prioritizing tasks to maximize efficiency in demanding environments.
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Developing executive communication skills to effectively engage with senior leadership and stakeholders.
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Building emotional intelligence (EQ) to improve interpersonal relationships and decision-making.
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Navigating generational workforce dynamics to foster collaboration and understanding across age groups.
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Aligning strategies with the C-suite to support organizational priorities and long-term goals.
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Mastering virtual communication tools and techniques for remote collaboration.
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Soft skills development, including negotiation, adaptability, and conflict resolution.
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People development strategies to mentor, coach, and grow team members.
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Insights into succession planning to ensure sustainable leadership transitions.
Emerging Technologies
This track explores cutting-edge technologies transforming the facility management industry, providing attendees with actionable insights and real-world applications to stay ahead of the curve.
Focus Areas Include:
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Practical applications of AI tools, including ChatGPT, for improving workflows and decision-making.
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Using AI for budget analysis, predictive maintenance, asset management, and work order management to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
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Practical AI use cases that move beyond theory to deliver measurable results.
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Harnessing AI for reporting and dashboarding to track costs, performance, and benchmarking.
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Using AI-driven data insights to make informed decisions that impact operational and financial outcomes.
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Integrating robotics into facility operations for tasks such as cleaning, security, and inventory management.
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Leveraging drones for inspections, maintenance assessments, and site monitoring.
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Implementing autonomous maintenance systems that use sensors, AI, and IoT to detect issues, automate repairs, and reduce downtime.
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Exploring the use of 3D printing for creating replacement parts, prototypes, and custom components, reducing lead times and costs.
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Utilizing machine learning to analyze operational data, predict failures, optimize energy usage, and enhance facility performance.
Technical Foundations
This track equips facility managers with the essential knowledge and skills necessary to manage core building systems and infrastructure effectively.
Focus Areas Include:
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Fundamental knowledge in electrical systems, lighting, plumbing, and HVAC.
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Strategies for preventive maintenance and predictive planning to minimize downtime and extend the lifespan of assets.
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Best practices for managing clean rooms, including maintaining controlled environments and adhering to strict operational standards.
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Fundamentals of elevators and escalators, including maintenance, compliance, and performance optimization.
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Key insights into roofing, asphalt, coatings, and concrete to maintain and protect a facility's exterior.
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Processes for disaster recovery, including permitting, reconstruction planning, and managing post-event operations efficiently.
Sustainability & Smart Systems
This track focuses on integrating sustainable practices and smart technologies to optimize facility operations, reduce environmental impact, and align with evolving industry standards and regulations.
Focus Areas Include:
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Low-cost sustainability strategies for immediate impact without significant investment.
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Implementing and reporting within ESG frameworks to align with organizational goals.
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Greenhouse gas (GHG) tracking and reduction strategies, including refrigerant management.
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Emphasizing circularity, zero-waste supply chains, and life-cycle planning to support sustainable operations.
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Navigating environmental regulations and compliance to ensure operational integrity.
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Optimizing energy use through smart lighting, HVAC, and energy management systems (EMS).
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Exploring renewable energy solutions and carbon accounting systems to meet sustainability goals.
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Strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy efficiency.
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Leveraging Building Automation Systems (BAS), sensor networks, and intelligent workflows to drive efficiency and enhance system management.
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Integrating advancements in equipment automation, including smart platforms for HVAC, lighting, and energy systems.
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Using data and analytics to make informed operational decisions and improve sustainability efforts.
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Navigating LEED, WELL, and ENERGY STAR certifications to enhance facility performance and meet sustainability benchmarks.
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Incorporating fire and life safety systems into sustainable building strategies to ensure compliance and safety while reducing energy use.
Current Hot Topics
This track covers the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the industry.
Focus Areas Include:
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Understanding the latest industry standards, certifications, and regulatory changes impacting facility management.
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Exploring effective outsourcing strategies and building strong partnerships to optimize operations.
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Effective communication strategies for working with internal departments and partners.
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Navigating supply chain challenges and tariff impacts, with a focus on maintaining operational continuity.
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Strategies to mitigate the effects of inflation on budgets, contracts, and operations.
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Strengthening security measures and risk mitigation strategies to protect facilities and occupants.
Session Delivery Formats
These sessions will be delivered onsite, in-person, at the Gaylord Palms, in session workshop rooms or other locations within the facility.
Breakout Sessions
Breakout sessions provide focused learning opportunities, offering actionable insights, tips, and solutions tailored to attendees' needs.
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45-Minute Breakout Session:
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A concise presentation format with ample time to explore key concepts and actionable takeaways.
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30-Minute Breakout Session:
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A shorter, high-impact session designed to deliver key insights efficiently.
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Hands-On Workshop (60 minutes): Interactive, experiential learning sessions that allow participants to apply new knowledge and skills through guided activities and exercises. These workshops focus on practical, real-world applications to deepen understanding and retention.
Facilitated Discussion Group (45 minutes): Structured, moderated group discussions designed to encourage open exchange of ideas, experiences, and perspectives among attendees. These sessions foster collaborative learning, critical thinking, and the development of shared understanding on specific topics or challenges.
Demo Labs
Demo Labs showcase technologies, tools, or processes in an interactive environment, allowing attendees to see solutions in action.
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30-Minute Demo Lab:
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A quick, focused demonstration of key tools, technologies, or practices.
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60-Minute Demo Lab:
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A more in-depth demonstration, providing detailed insights into the use and benefits of specific technologies or processes.
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Learning Level Definitions
To ensure all attendees gain the most value from their educational experience, sessions are categorized by learning levels tailored to different professional roles and expertise.
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Fundamentals (Student, Administrative, Coordinator): Designed for those new to the industry or seeking a refresher, these sessions provide an introductory understanding of key topics and foundational concepts.
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Beyond Basics (Manager – Director): These sessions offer an intermediate level of depth, exploring topics with greater technical detail to help attendees build on their existing knowledge and skills.
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Executive Edge (VP, Senior Executive, C Level): Tailored for decision-makers, these advanced sessions focus on strategic insights and leadership essentials needed for making impactful business decisions at the executive level.
ConnexFM2026 Call for Presentations closes on September 30, 2025.