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Meet Cody Crawford
Director, Facilities and Operations | Vulcan.
How did you get into your current position?
I have been with Vulcan for going on 16 years now. I started at Vulcan in 2008 as a Facilities Manager. Over the course of my career here, I challenged myself to continue to learn and grow, and be open to failure. As new opportunities became available, I stepped up and asked for additional responsibilities and did what was necessary to gain the knowledge and experience needed to perform these duties. I did this through taking courses through IFMA, soon earning my CFM, then through USGBC, earning a LEED GA accreditation, and then earning my RPA (Real Property Administrator) through BOMA. During my time here I started out managing the Facilities functions for two buildings. Over time I became responsible for the Warehouse Operation, Security Operations, Administrative Services, and then I became responsible for a diverse portfolio of Real Estate assets. It has and continues to be a fun ride!
How do you support Facility Managers?
Through sharing knowledge and experiences, networking, providing growth opportunities; whether it is assigning challenging projects to test their comfort zone, providing opportunities to get in front of executive leadership, or having them represent our department on a committee. Most importantly I put a lot of emphasis on the importance of good communication, because that skill will enable you to be successful in every situation.
How do you benefit from the IFMA and the Seattle Chapter?
I started out as a member of the IFMA Student Chapter at the Colorado State University – Pueblo where I earned a BS in Facilities Management and Technology Studies. The Student Chapter gave me insight into and industry and opportunities that I really had no idea existed at the time. Through attending Chapter events and meeting industry professionals, it really opened up my eyes to an exciting profession. With this said, I think the biggest benefit of IFMA and the Local Chapters provide (beside advancing the profession through thoughtfully crafted training and education), is the networking opportunities. You can find and build relationships with people in the same profession, but maybe in different industries, to share ideas with, consult with, and help you build your knowledge and experiences.
Unfortunately, at this stage in my life right now, my days are packed. I have two sons who are involved in many activities including sports. My nights and weekends are consumed by ubering kids around and watching them compete. Because of this I have not been able to benefit from all that the IFMA Seattle Chapter has to offer.
Any advice for new members?
Get involved with IFMA when and where you can. Push your comfort zones and leverage the knowledge and relationships you build through your work, professional associations, and other experiences.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
As I stated before, I currently enjoy ubering my kids around and watching them grow up!
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