2024 Fall Conference Speakers

October 8-10, 2024
St. Cloud River’s Edge Convention Center
10 4th Ave S, St Cloud, MN 56301

General Session Speakers

FGI Guidelines - Lessons Learned and Avoiding barriers

Brian Burke - Partner, Mechanical Engineer, Dunham Associates

Dustin Rehkamp - Senior Project Manager, CannonDesign

Dustin has 20 years of experience working with influential healthcare organizations and is skilled at healthcare campus planning and development, project management and client relations. His leadership and technical prowess enhance each project.

Dustin is a co-chair of the MN AIA Government Affairs committee. He is the vice-chair of the ASHE Health Care Decarbonization Task Force. He is on the TCHEA executive committee, WHEA Code Committee, WHEA Sustainability Committee and part of the ASHE Equity and Diversity task force. Dustin is a certified healthcare architect with the American College of Healthcare Architects. He has a passion for mentoring the next generation and has been an ACE mentor since 2013.

Justin Thiner - Partner, Electrical Engineer, Dunham Associates

Abstract

The design of hospitals and clinics is a very specialized industry and can be overly complex. Developing a basic understanding of the various types of codes will empower you to be able to ask important questions, keep your facility construction costs down, and assist for future modifications as well as accreditation reviews.

Recent legislation the adopted the 2022 FGI guidelines as baseline for hospital construction. While most projects have already been using the 2018 and 2022 guidelines, this is now a code requirement for any new construction or remodel in and I-2 occupancy in Minnesota.

This presentation will provide a basic overview of the FGI and associated codes. It will then go into more detail on some obstacles and learning lessons that the presenters have experienced through there many years of healthcare design. This will include room types and associated mechanical and electrical infrastructure requirements. Requirements for operating a clinic or hospital during emergencies including power outages and natural disasters.

AI and IoT Powered Buildings, The Future of Compliance: Allina Health Case Study

Chris Hariz - Founder, Hexmodal

Ryan Schramm, SASHE, CHFM - System Regulatory Director, Facilities Services, Banner Health

Ryan is a Subject Matter Expert (SME) at Legacy FM and the Senior Systems Manager of Facilities Operations at Banner Health. At Banner Health, Ryan leads the Remote Operations Center's (ROC) Technology and Operations division, focusing on enhancing efficiency and improving facility operations. With over 18 years of experience in healthcare facilities management, Ryan possesses an expertise in construction project services, facilities operations, CMMS optimization, and asset risk management. Ryan is a Senior-designated member of ASHE (SASHE), a Certified Healthcare Facilities Manager (CHFM), and a Certified Healthcare Constructor (CHC). He serves on ASHE's Member's Tools Committee (MTC) and chairs the Operational Optimization Statement Definition Task Force (OOS/DTF), emphasizing innovation and operational excellence He holds a bachelor’s degree in operations management from Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM) and a background in Carpentry from Alexandria Technical College. Ryan's servant leadership style continues to inspire his team and peers, making a lasting impact on healthcare facilities management.

Abstract

In this session, Banner Health's Ryan Schramm, will share how he is using AI and IoT to help his facilities team overcome their compliance challenges. Faced with shrinking budgets, growing footprints, and difficulty hiring and retaining talent, his team has turned to Next Generation Smart Devices to automate their CMS Required Inspections, Testing, and Recordkeeping - without involving IT.

Monthly Fire extinguisher Inspections
Monthly and Annual Emergency light and exit sign Testing
Weekly Room pressure, temperature, and humidity Monitoring
Daily Cold storage temperature Recordkeeping

Attendees will learn how to deploy IT-free devices in days without capital allocation, allowing them to keep their team’s valuable time focused on mission-critical work like emergency repairs, preventative maintenance, and projects.

The Ten Steps to CMMS Recovery

Ryan Schramm, SASHE, CHFM - System Regulatory Director, Facilities Services, Banner Health

Ryan is a Subject Matter Expert (SME) at Legacy FM and the Senior Systems Manager of Facilities Operations at Banner Health. At Banner Health, Ryan leads the Remote Operations Center's (ROC) Technology and Operations division, focusing on enhancing efficiency and improving facility operations. With over 18 years of experience in healthcare facilities management, Ryan possesses an expertise in construction project services, facilities operations, CMMS optimization, and asset risk management. Ryan is a Senior-designated member of ASHE (SASHE), a Certified Healthcare Facilities Manager (CHFM), and a Certified Healthcare Constructor (CHC). He serves on ASHE's Member's Tools Committee (MTC) and chairs the Operational Optimization Statement Definition Task Force (OOS/DTF), emphasizing innovation and operational excellence He holds a bachelor’s degree in operations management from Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM) and a background in Carpentry from Alexandria Technical College. Ryan's servant leadership style continues to inspire his team and peers, making a lasting impact on healthcare facilities management.

Abstract

In the dynamic realm of healthcare facility management (HFM), acknowledging and embracing challenges is the cornerstone of progress. Join us in this transformative session as we explore the pivotal role of Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) in healthcare and unlock the potential of CMMS recovery. Instead of trying to force a software solution to fit a problem, our goal is to empower your HFM team with the knowledge and tools needed to take the lead and proactively drive innovation.

This session is designed to empower HFM professionals with the skills and strategies needed to proactively regain control over their CMMS while seamlessly aligning operational requirements. Throughout our session, we will delve deeply into groundbreaking approaches to CMMS recovery, effectively transforming it from a potential liability into a powerful strategic asset. Our primary objective is to address the common challenges faced by HFM professionals in their CMMS endeavors and equip them with innovative solutions for CMMS recovery.

This is your opportunity to embark on a journey of innovation, where CMMS recovery becomes a catalyst for operational optimization. By boldly pursuing best practices and cultivating a culture of continuous improvement, our team becomes armed with the ability to ensure an unparalleled patient care experience and delivery of services at the highest possible value. Don't miss this chance unlock the full potential of your CMMS and elevate your facility management capabilities to new heights.

Education Session Speakers

Empowering and Cultivating the next generations of leaders

Dustin Rehkamp - Senior Project Manager, CannonDesign

Dustin has 20 years of experience working with influential healthcare organizations and is skilled at healthcare campus planning and development, project management and client relations. His leadership and technical prowess enhance each project.

Dustin is a co-chair of the MN AIA Government Affairs committee. He is the vice-chair of the ASHE Health Care Decarbonization Task Force. He is on the TCHEA executive committee, WHEA Code Committee, WHEA Sustainability Committee and part of the ASHE Equity and Diversity task force. Dustin is a certified healthcare architect with the American College of Healthcare Architects. He has a passion for mentoring the next generation and has been an ACE mentor since 2013.

Eric Krause - Director Regional Facilities Hospital Operations, Allina Health

Eric Krause serves as the Director of Regional Hospital Facilities Operations overseeing seven metro and regional hospitals within the Allina Health network. In this role, he manages the daily operations of facilities across campuses, ensures regulatory and accreditation compliance, and provides oversight for construction projects at these medical institutions.

Eric's journey in healthcare began as a master plumber in Montana. He later ventured into education, establishing a business aimed at teaching students the intricacies of proper boiler operation. Additionally, Eric holds a Minnesota 1-B boiler operator license, further demonstrating his expertise in facility management.

With a commitment to professional development, Eric has obtained certifications as a Certified Healthcare Facilities Manager (CHFM) and a Certified Healthcare Constructor (CHC). He has also contributed significantly to the healthcare engineering community, having served as the President of the Minnesota Healthcare Engineers Association. Currently, Eric is actively involved in various American Society of Healthcare Engineering task force committees, where he continues to make valuable contributions to the field.

Abstract

Unlike management, leadership cannot be taught, although it may be learned and enhanced through coaching or mentoring. Leadership requires learning one from own failures, as well as the failures of others. It means continuing to get back up when it is most difficult to do so. Exceptional leaders distinguish themselves because of superior self-leadership. The ability to ask for help and embrace the value of others on our journey can be a vital, courageous step that accelerates your self-leadership too.

Leadership and working with others included effective collaboration. “Collaboration” is defined as working together toward a common vision. Egos, Silos, and Blame are three of the biggest obstacles to “working together” and lack of leadership, vision clarity, politics, and personal agendas most often prevent circling around a “common vision.” In this interactive discussion, several common barriers to project team collaboration will be presented with a detailed discussion on how to remove them from your existing projects and proactive strategies to avoid them while working with others. While many have a definition of what collaboration is, it is equally important to understand what collaboration is not, and how we can shift common misconceptions about what it means to be collaborative.

Strong leadership from each team member is important for collaboration and success. To encourage and support collaboration, teams are coached to create a common, actionable vision that engages and aligns all project partners throughout the project. This intentional strategy will help to create a culture grounded in trust, integrity, and respect. We are working in a unique time where four generations are active in the workplace (baby boomers, Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z). We will discuss lessons learned from working with this diverse workforce and how collaboration and communication is vital for daily success.

Collecting knowledge and making data visible in GIS

Ceirra Burke - Quality Specialist, Mayo Clinic

Ceirra Burke is a Quality Specialist in the Department of Facilities and Support Services at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN. She received a Bachelors degree in Exercise Science and a Masters in Healthcare Administration from Grand Canyon University. Ceirra has a passion for process improvement efforts focusing on using new tools and technologies that can enhance patient care.

Anne Morris - Facilities Systems Coordinator, Mayo Clinic

Anne Morris is a Facilities Systems Coordinator in the Department of Facilities and Support Services at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN. She received a B.A. degree in Environmental Studies and Geography at Saint Thomas University and an Masters in GIS from the University of Minnesota. Prior to joining the Mayo Clinic two years ago, Anne worked for the state of Minnesota for 8 years.

Abstract

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are a pivotal tool in various fields, offering comprehensive capabilities for spatial analysis and data visualization. This presentation will provide a foundational understanding of what a geographical information system is, detailing its components, functionalities, and significance. Second, we will look at the innovative use of GIS by Mayo Clinic, including how it was integrated with other systems. Third, it explores the application of GIS in indoor environments, showcasing how spatial analysis extends beyond outdoor settings to improve indoor navigation and asset management. Finally, we will delve into the integration of GIS with our quality team, discussing the benefits and future of such synergies.

Note: this presentation is in conjunction with the “What Happens When Technology and Compliance Collide?” presentation to share our journey through technology and application.

Intro to LIfe Safety

Holly Ramirez - Operations Manager, Summit National Accounts

As a life safety operations professional with a focus in healthcare, I have a passion for being a positive change in my clients’ lives and businesses. Through careful management of field personnel, hospital accreditation programs, and financial management of inspection agreements, I have ensured my clients are safe, secure, and compliant with regulations.

Abstract

Presentation Outline and Sources

• Introduction to presenter
• Code basics
• NFPA - Reporter's Guide: About codes and standards
• Codes and standards | NFPA
• Fire alarm basics
  • NFPA 72
  • A Guide to Fire Alarm Basics | NFPA
  • NFPA - Fire Alarm Basics Fact Sheet
  • A Guide to Fire Alarm Basics - Notification | NFPA
  • Guide to Fire Alarm Basics – Power Supplies | NFPA | NFPA
  • A Guide to Fire Alarm Basics – Emergency Control Functions | NFPA
• Sprinkler System Basics
  • NFPA 72
  • NFPA 25
  • Sprinkler System Basics: Types of Sprinkler Systems | NFPA

What Happens When Technology and Compliance Collide?

Pat Hlavka - Compliance Manager, Mayo Clinic

Pat Hlavka, MS, CSP is the Compliance Manager for the Facilities Management Division within the Department of Facilities and Support Services at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN. She received a B.S. degree in Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and an M.S. degree in Safety from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. She is a Certified Safety Professional (CSP), a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals, and is an Assistant Professor of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology in the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science. Prior to joining the Mayo Clinic, Pat worked as a safety professional in the industrial setting (IBM and Benchmark Electronics) for over 15 years. Since joining Mayo Clinic in 2008, she was the safety coordinator for the clinical testing laboratories and now manages the Compliance Management team that supports various programs (Safety, Emergency Management, Environmental, and Joint Commission) for the facilities staff performing activities related to operations, maintenance, environmental services, utility power plants, and associated service lines in Rochester and Southeast Minnesota locations. She is the recipient of two Mayo Clinic Excellence Through Teamwork Awards.

Dan Northrop - Program Manager, Mayo Clinic

Dan Northrop, MS is a Program Manager for Facilities Management at Mayo Clinic in Rochester and Southeast Minnesota. He is part of the Compliance Management team, responsible for overseeing and managing the Lockout-Tagout and Confined Space Programs. Prior to joining Mayo in 2024, Dan was the EHS Manager at Benchmark Electronics. He also worked as an Industrial Hygienist for EBI Companies, a Workers’ Compensation Insurance Provider, and Chemical Waste Management. He received a B.S. degree in Zoology from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and an M.S. degree in Environmental and Occupational Health from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities.

Abstract

How can technology be used to improve compliance with regulatory requirements? Mayo Clinic merged Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology and Lockout Tagout (LOTO) information to create a flexible, real time, standardized method for compliance. LOTO is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to protect against unintentional exposure to hazardous energy from equipment and machinery because one of the most common workplace hazards is the release of hazardous energy during maintenance resulting in serious injuries or fatalities if proper safety procedures are not followed. The key component of LOTO is the use of written procedures that list the steps to keep equipment from unintentional energization during servicing such as shutting down, isolating, blocking, and securing equipment along with placement, removal, and transfer of LOTO devices. We determined that staff were not consistently using LOTO procedures in the field. We needed to ensure easy and timely access to the procedures at the technicians’ fingertips when they are working on the equipment. A group of stakeholders was recruited to test the new process for viewing the procedures through GIS. There were several lessons learned in this project including the importance of involving stakeholders to test the process and to gain their buy-in. The success of the new GIS technology for the LOTO program has allowed us to use it for other compliance programs such as mapping confined space locations and displaying their hazard assessments and pre-entry permits. Mapping of roof anchor points in GIS is being developed to improve safety for fall protection. The possibilities for future applications continue to grow!

Note: this presentation is in conjunction with the “Collecting knowledge and making data visible in GIS” presentation; these two topics share our journey through technology and application.

Preserving a well-maintained building

Bob Smith - Commercial / Large Loss / Account Manager, Servpro / ERT - Nitzhe

Robert has over 27 years of managerial experience in the restoration business. He has a strong commercial background. Plus, additional 9 years in management experience in other industries. He has Instructed continue education for adjuster’s, agents and real estate professionals. He has also given restoration presentations to many organizations in the public and private sector. He is currently serving on the boards of a few nonprofit originations, and a township board. His volunteer activities also include several leadership positions in his church. Robert comes with a very wide and vast knowledge of the restoration. From being in the trenches, selling, and his management experience. Robert comes with the understanding that every detail in getting to the loss, dealing with clients, giving a fair price, quality services and customer service is key.

Robert’s education includes an education degree from Mankato State University, as well as a management degree from the University of St. Thomas and he has also completed many certified training courses in construction and restoration business including being a license contractor and certified lead renovator.

Personal level – Robert has been married for over 32 years and farms in rural Belle Plaine Minnesota with his wife. We have two adult children, with a grandchild on the way. Being a parent he has a special interest in the safety and health concerns as they apply to schools and businesses

Abstract

Abstract Details Coming Soon.

Cultivating Discussion During the Design Phase: Stakeholders, Policy, and Compliance

Amanda Brown - Education Specialist, Carpenters Training Institute

Amanda has a passion for teaching and learning. She earned her teaching degree from the University of Minnesota-Duluth and continued to earn her Master of Education from Concordia University-Portland. She has served as an educator in various capacities including serving at-risk youth and leading adult education programming. As an Education Specialist for Carpenters Training Institute in St. Paul, Minnesota, she uses her skills as an educator to provide ICRA healthcare construction best practice training to contractors, facility staff, and healthcare professionals. She has spoken at regional events including ASHE Region 6 and infection control conferences including the Minnesota APIC Conference and the Iowa Infection Prevention Conference. In her spare time, Amanda enjoys attending her children’s sporting events and spending time with family.

Nick Hoffman - Carpenters Training Institute

As a carpenter instructor at the Carpenters Training Institute, Nick enjoys teaching members to be successful in carpentry. Along with teaching wood frame, print reading, concrete forms, and OSHA classes, Nick strives to help prepare the next wave of Union carpenters to succeed in the digital construction world by using 3D modeling tools, BIM technologies, and construction management software. He is proficient in systems like Procore, Navisworks, and Sketchup and enjoys incorporating these technologies into more efficient work processes. In his free time, Nick enjoys hiking trips and playing volleyball.

Christa Mardaus - ICRA Instructional Coordinator, Carpenters Training Institute

Christa Mardaus has worked in the construction industry for 20 years, gaining experience in large commercial projects, multi-family wood frame, and healthcare construction. As a seasoned instructor, she is passionate about improving Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) awareness and communication. In addition to training, she is also involved in committees such as curriculum development and W.I.C. Christa has trained leaders in carpentry at the Carpenters International Training Center. She has been asked to lead Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion sessions for contractors and trade partners as well as organizations like the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). She has spoken at state healthcare engineering conferences for the Minnesota Healthcare Engineering Association (MHCEA), Wisconsin Healthcare Engineering Association (WHEA), the North Dakota Engineering Society (NDHES), and the ASHE Region 6 Conference. Christa also has spoken at national and state events for the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC).

Abstract

This presentation will provide healthcare construction stakeholders with tools to support healthcare owners and construction planning teams by applying proactive preventative measures to ensure patient safety and successful project completion. Starting with a basic overview of the CMS-required Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA), participants will gain an understanding of infection control responsibilities that must be assessed before construction begins. Using the FGI as a template, participants will apply their ICRA understanding and FGI knowledge to spark important conversations regarding infection control, risk mitigation, and transparency. This presentation will address how incorporating FGI and ICRA requirements through virtual tools can support real-time infection prevention details, leading to fewer unforeseen costs and increased patient safety. Through collaboration, healthcare construction stakeholders have the potential to be proactive with ICRA general project requirements that provide transparency with healthcare construction policies related to constructor and owner responsibilities, acceptable products, and execution requirements.

Addressing Out of Date Hospital Piping Schematics

Gary McLaren - Facility Piping System Surveyor - ASSE 5120/5150 Certified, HydroCorp - Cross-Connection Programs-Backflow Tracking

Gary McLaren loves his job at HydroCorp™. As an ASSE Certified Cross-Connection Surveyor, he has conducted onsite cross-connection surveys for potable water piping systems at over 3,000 individual facilities. He is currently responsible for State accredited Cross-Connection classes in Minnesota and Wisconsin for public water systems staff. During the past nineteen years at HydroCorp, Gary has helped provide complex piping schematic update projects for facilities such as Aspirus Health, Delmonte Foods, Kohler, and Land O' Lakes.

Abstract

In this presentation, attendees will gain essential insights into optimizing facility management by prioritizing piping system updates and leveraging reliable schematics. The session will cover four key aspects:

Prioritization of Piping System Updates: Attendees will learn effective strategies for determining which piping systems require immediate attention. This prioritization is crucial for maintaining safety and efficiency in facility operations.

Value and ROI of Updated Schematics: Participants will understand the increased value and return on investment (ROI) that comes with implementing reliable and up-to-date schematics. Accurate schematics enhance operational efficiency and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Real-world Examples of Conditions and Hazards: The presentation will showcase real-world examples of conditions, assets, and undetected hazards discovered during the process of updating schematics. These case studies will highlight the critical importance of maintaining accurate facility documentation.

Empowering Facility Maintenance and Sustainability: Attendees will see how reliable schematics can empower facility maintenance teams, improve planning processes, and contribute to sustainability efforts. Accurate schematics are foundational for effective maintenance, future planning, and achieving sustainability goals.

By the end of the session, attendees will be equipped with practical knowledge and actionable strategies to enhance their facility management practices through prioritized updates and reliable schematics.

Improving Winter Safety through Infrastructure Design and Winter Maintenance Strategies

Carolyn Dindorf - Limnologist, Bolton & Menk, Inc.

Carolyn Dindorf is a limnologist with Bolton & Menk, Inc. Carolyn previously spent 19 years as Vice President/Limnologist for Fortin Consulting, which was acquired by Bolton & Menk in 2022 to bring Fortin’s expertise in water resource protection and salt reduction to more communities. Carolyn holds a bachelor's degree in biology and chemistry and a Master's in limnology. Carolyn’s work revolves around protecting and improving water resources— including research and education pertaining to reducing environmental impacts of winter maintenance and water softening. Carolyn has worked closely with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and other staff to create and teach the MPCA Smart Salting certification classes to promote use of best practices to reduce salt use. She manages Bolton & Menk’s Low Salt Team and is part of Bolton & Menk’s initiative to develop and promote the use of low salt design practices to reduce the need for salt use in winter maintenance. Carolyn has authored or coauthored many publications, including the Minnesota Snow and Ice Control Handbook for Snowplow Operators, and MPCA Smart Salting Manuals and fact sheets.

Caralie Randolph - Environmental Specialist, Bolton & Menk, Inc.

Caralie is an Environmental Specialist in the Water Resources division at Bolton & Menk. In her role, Caralie serves as the logistics coordinator for the Smart Salting training program, aiding in teaching chloride reduction practices to winter maintenance professionals across Minnesota. She also has developed educational content for the Smart Salting Tool and various Smart Salting trainings. Caralie received her BS in Environmental Science, Policy, and Management from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. She has a passion for preserving natural resources and believes everyone can play a part in protecting our waters for future generations.

Abstract

Salt used in winter maintenance damages building infrastructure, concrete sidewalks, indoor flooring, and rugs. Often, copious amounts of salt are used to ensure public safety. In addition to the infrastructure damage caused by salt, chloride in salt contaminates drinking water, is toxic to aquatic life, reduces nutrient removal in treatment ponds, and harms vegetation. Removal of chloride once it contaminates surface water is infeasible. Prevention is the key. In Minnesota and other states, we have worked to train thousands of winter maintenance professionals on salt reduction strategies and learned of the design challenges that require higher salt use. A significant driver of salt use is the meltwater sprawl and refreeze cycles. Winter weather offers many challenges but also provides a few key opportunities that can be harnessed to lower salt use. In this presentation, attendees will learn about the chloride crisis, the challenges presented to winter maintenance operations, and the opportunities facility managers, engineers, designers, architects, and planners have to change our designs and manage facilities for lower salt use, better winter performance, safe conditions and less damage to infrastructure and water.

Solving Problems and Saving Energy in Chilled Water Systems

David Solberg, PE - Systems Account Manager, Trane Technologies

Dave Solberg, PE has been a licensed professional engineer in Minnesota for 43 years.

He has three industry patents: variable speed drive interface circuitry (1982) and two fluid flow measurement and control patents (2018, 2020).

He has design engineering experience in: chilled water systems; hot and chilled water stratified thermal storage; variable air flow commercial and industrial flow ventilation systems; desiccant cooling system; adiabatic humidification; hot water boilers; high and low pressure steam boilers; condensing boilers; commercial and industrial process control systems; chilled, condenser, and hot water pumping systems; laboratory fume hood systems; ducted and pressurized plenum clean room manufacturing; expert witness services; food processing; organic Rankine cycle, steam, and combustion turbine cogeneration; thermal and differential pressure anemometry. and space pressurization control.

He received the 2010 Grand Prize award from the Minnesota Environmental Initiative for Faribault Foods Cannery Retrofit saving 250,000 gallons per day and over 1,000,000 therms years.

Abstract

The objective of the presentation is provide effective solutions for the most common problems in chilled water systems including:

1. Low chilled water temperature differential
2. System inefficiencies
3. Ineffective controls
4. Excessive maintenance of cooling tower basins
5. Frozen chilled water coils
6. Inability to deliver chiller plant capacity

Solutions for these problems will include:

1. Replacing standard control valves with metering valves
2. Replace certain commercial instrumentation with industrial instrumentation
3. Calibration of instrumentation
4. Effective filtration of chilled and condenser water systems
5. Conversion to variable primary pumping
6. Installation of test temperature and pressure ports

Project history examples of solved problems will be provided.