University of Houston staff members from the Facilities/Construction Management department attended the 2023 TAPPA Educational Conference and Business Partner Fair in Denton, Texas. TAPPA is a non-profit organization that promotes common interest, proficiency, and professionalism in college and university facilities operations.

The organization’s annual conference allows attendees to get educated and informed on better managing the facilities department in their respective colleges and universities. The 2023 TAPPA Conference was attended by 42 higher education institutions with over 360 participants.

Each year, a Facilities Management Distinguished Service Award is given during the conference. This individual is known for promoting education and other professional activities. They also serve as a role model and mentor. This year’s recipient was Principal Project Manager James Norcom, III. 

“I was surprised and honored to be recognized by my own University and by colleagues across the state.” remarked Norcom.

F/CM team members not only attended the workshop sessions, but they were also moderators and speakers. Executive Director Jennifer Rea presented on Purpose Driven Teams: Building Futures, Maintaining Excellence.

“It was a pure joy to be able to relay the ways our department has adopted our purpose statement and how it has helped us align our strategic goals.” stated Rea.

Aside from attending the break-out sessions, attending the TAPPA conference allowed staff to network with peers and business partners.  

Senior Assistant Vice Chancellor of Facilities/Construction Management David Oliver appreciated the conference networking and stated, “The opportunity to network with peers and business partners in an in-person environment is critical in creating and strengthening the network of partners to continue making UH successful.”  

Networking with industry peers allows staff to see how other Facilities departments work in their respective state universities.