FM Staff News

Meet Bill Olen, FM’s new Interim Associate Vice President. From his early days as a student worker to leading major construction efforts, Bill reflects on his career, what’s ahead for FM, and what keeps him energized outside of work.

Walk into almost any building on campus, and chances are you’ll interact with someone from Facilities Management — whether it’s a technician responding to a work request, a project manager meeting with a department, or a landscaper keeping the grounds safe and beautiful. With thousands of daily touchpoints, FM has been sharpening its focus on one essential goal: improving the customer experience.

In a typical year, the College Park area experiences an average of five to six snow or ice events with an average seasonal snowfall of around 13 inches.  Long before the first snowflakes fall, the Facilities Management (FM) landscape/snow removal team begins winter weather preparation and whatever winter brings, FM is prepared. 

Walk across the University of Maryland’s campus and you’ll find yourself surrounded by a living collection, a carefully curated canopy that changes with the seasons but always reflects a steady hand of care.

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood or platelets — and you can help.Facilities Management is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive, and we invite you to join us in giving back. Thursday, October 30, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.Community Room, College Park City Hall (7401 Baltimore Ave., first floor)

While much of campus slows down during summer, Facilities Management (FM) shifts into overdrive. With quieter streets and empty classrooms, crews take on projects that range from routine repairs to major upgrades—work that sustains the university all year long. Planning begins as early as winter, and once Commencement wraps, teams move quickly to make the most of the short summer window. From fresh paint and lighting improvements to ADA compliance and large-scale renovations, FM’s efforts touch nearly every corner of campus life.