b'Note From The President, continuededucation. Each year, it provides aStrength in Community Plant Management Association (NSPMA) platform for facility managers to stayPerhaps the most enduring benefit ofin 1995, with Sloan becoming its first informed on best practices, regulatorythe MSPMA Annual Conference is thepresident. This move positioned Missouri changes, maintenance innovations, andsense of community it fosters. Facilityas a leader in the national conversation on sustainability initiatives. Sessions covermanagers often face unique challengesschool facility management.everything from HVAC efficiency andthat require not only technical skillToday, MSPMA continues to custodial strategies to capital planningbut also peer support. The conferencecollaborate with national and regional and emergency preparedness. serves as a rare opportunity for theseorganizations to raise standards, advocate In 2013, MSPMA took a significantprofessionals to connect, collaborate, andfor resources, and shape the future of step forward by launching the Facilityshare their stories. facility operations in education.Managers Core Certification TrainingThrough workshops, breakout sessions, Program, led by Richard Jones. Thisand informal networking events, attendeesA Tradition of Excellenceinitiative helped professionalize thebuild lasting relationships with peers,Now more than three decades since field and provide structured learning formentors, and industry experts. Theseits founding, the MSPMA Annual facility personnel across Missouri. Thenconnections help participants navigateConference continues to thrive under in 2024, MSPMA became the first state-the complexities of their roles and foster astrong leadership. When Charley level organization in the nation to offer aculture of continuous improvement. Branham took over as Executive Masters Certification in School FacilityDirector in 2017only the second in Management, further solidifying itsNational Influence the organizations historyhe continued commitment to advancing the profession. MSPMAs impact has reached farto build on a legacy of progress, These educational opportunities empowerbeyond Missouris borders. Under Tonyprofessionalism, and purpose.attendees to return to their districts withSloans leadership, the organizationThe conference remains a vital resource actionable knowledge, improved operationalhelped lead the transformation of thefor school districts striving to provide strategies, and a deeper understanding ofSouthern School Plant Managementsafe, efficient, and inspiring learning their critical role in student success. Association into the National Schoolenvironments. It is not just a gathering, but a celebration of the people who work behind the scenes every day to keep Missouris schools running.ConclusionThe Missouri School Plant Managers Association Annual Conference represents more than an eventit is a movement dedicated to improving public education through better facility management. From its modest beginnings to its current statewide and 100% national influence, the conference has become an essential destination for Employee Owned anyone involved in the care and operation and Operated of Missouris school buildings.By honoring its history and continuously investing in the professional growth of its members, MSPMA ensures HVAC that future generations of facility Plumbing leaders will have the tools, training, and Building Automation community they need to succeed.Access ControlsFire Protection Sincerely,RefrigerationEnergy ServicesServing Missouri Since 1966Jeff Rooks636-680-2100www.intfs.com President,Missouri School Plant Managers Association6|SCHOOL PLANT MANAGER MAGAZINE|FALL 2025'