Meet the "Dean" of Technology & Facility Management

Dean Stanberry is a figure who embodies the convergence of technology and facility management. His career began in Information Technology (IT), where he cultivated a keen understanding of critical infrastructure, particularly in data centers. His career transition into facility management (FM) was almost serendipitous, a path he didn't initially anticipate but eventually embraced wholeheartedly.  Dean’s last role in IT was as a staff manager for the Chief Information Officer (CIO) of his company. This position thrust him into responsibilities that were as varied as they were challenging, tasks that others might shy away from.

This ultimately led to his FM “accidental profession” story. "Due to some organizational responsibility realignments, I ended up inheriting 5 million square feet of administrative space, 1.5 million square feet of data centers, and a whole bunch of people spread across 14 states," Dean recalled. He went back the CIO and said, “Ya know, this is kind of a full-time job." This daunting responsibility marked the beginning of his immersion into the FM profession, a field he would come to deeply appreciate and impact.

Recognizing a gap in his knowledge about managing office spaces, Dean sought out resources to bridge this gap. This quest led him to the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), where he joined the Denver chapter. Through this organization, he learned the nuances of FM and began to contribute his perspective on the integration of technology within the field.

Dean’s communication style is both engaging and thought-provoking. He is known for his well-considered insights, whether tracing the history of technological evolution or providing editorial commentary on current trends. His colleagues and peers appreciate his responsiveness and willingness to share his knowledge, often providing valuable quotes that lend context, weight, and credibility to discussions and articles.

Despite his deep roots in technology, he approaches its use in FM with healthy skepticism. He understands that while technology can offer tremendous benefits, it must be employed thoughtfully and with a clear understanding of its impact.

"Having great data can help you make your point," he notes, "but there’s got to be context and credibility."

This perspective reflects his broader view on the commercial real estate (CRE) industry and the need for a balanced, informed approach to adopting new tools and technologies.

Generous with his time and knowledge, Dean is also known for his enthusiasm and positive outlook. He can inspire others, encouraging them to think critically and connect ideas in innovative ways.

For young professionals, especially digital natives entering the FM field, he sees a wealth of opportunities, emphasizing the potential of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence as transformative across the entire industry. "There’s a historical trail of technologies that has significantly impacted how we live and work," he explained, pointing to inventions like the lightbulb, telephone, cars, transistors, and personal computers. Being at the forefront of these waves of innovation is something Dean continues to find exhilarating.

For those considering a career in FM, he offers practical advice, encouraging individuals to ask themselves key questions about their work preferences and aspirations:

"What kind of work structure makes you happy? Are you a behind-the-desk kind of person, or do you prefer being on the go? Are you interested in helping others improve? How do you want to be seen by peers and leadership?"

These questions, he believes, can help guide aspiring facility managers toward fulfilling and impactful careers.

Dean has been on a slow but deliberate transition toward retirement, and still considers himself “semi-retired.” His hope is that once fully retired, he leaves behind a legacy of thoughtful leadership and a deeper understanding of the intersection between technology and facility management. His story serves as an inspiration for those in the field, showcasing the importance of adaptability, lifelong learning, and the courage to embrace new challenges.

Check out the Facility Voices Podcast, Unlocking the Future: Insights on Sustainability, AI, and Emerging Trends in Facilities Management, featuring Dean for more of his valuable insights. 

 

Explore the experiences of retired facilities professionals in the latest series from ARC Facilities -- Legacy Insights: Wisdom from Retired Facilities Professionals and follow us on LinkedIn.