February 26, 2026 — The ConnexFM National Conference is an annual event for the multi-site facilities management industry. It will bring together facility managers (FMs) and suppliers to network, share best practices, and explore the latest technologies in maintenance and operations at The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, Orlando, FL, April 19-22, 2026.
The event is structured differently than a typical trade show to ensure “Multi-Site FMs” (who manage dozens or hundreds of locations) benefit from:
- Hosted Buyer Program: Qualified FMs can often attend for free in exchange for participating in “Quick Connect” sessions (speed-dating for FM services).
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Technical Tracks: Sessions focus on high-stakes technical topics like HVAC efficiency, roofing lifecycle, AI in maintenance, and disaster recovery.
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Peer-to-Peer Councils: Small group discussions categorized by industry (e.g., Retail Council, Food & Beverage Council) to discuss sector-specific challenges.
The primary education tracks are:
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DEMO LABS: These are interactive demonstrations where you work with actual equipment. The topics are: HVAC diagnostics, lighting controls, fire and life safety, plumbing, and electrical power systems.
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Emerging Technologies: Focused on the digital transformation of FM, the topics are: Practical AI for workflows, predictive maintenance dashboards, robotics/drones in facilities, and machine learning for energy optimization.
- Technical Foundations: For building the skills to sharpen communications, leadership, and workplace effectiveness including project management essentials, time and priority management, executive communication, emotional intelligence, cross-generational collaboration, alignment with the C-suite, virtual communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution.
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The Evolving Professional: Targeted at soft skills and leadership, the topics are: executive communication, cross-generational collaboration, negotiation, and “C-suite alignment” (proving the ROI of FM to leadership).
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Sustainability & Smart Systems: Focused on compliance and efficiency to reduce environmental impact, the topics are: Low-cost sustainability strategies, ESG reporting, circularity and zero-waste planning, regulatory compliance, smart energy systems, BAS and automation, and data-driven sustainability practices.
Learning Levels for every session can help attendees choose the right depth:
- Executive Edge for VPs and the C-Suite offers strategic insights and high-level business decisions.
- Beyond Basics is designed for managers, directors focusing on intermediate technical detail and tactical planning.
- Fundamentals, for students and coordinators, looks a foundational concepts and industry basics.
The keynote speaker, Mike Krzyzewski (Coach K), head men’s basketball coach, Duke University, 1980-2022, will share the same principles that turned athletes into champions and teams into dynasties. You’ll hear how to foster trust, communicate with clarity, and lead with heart, whether you’re managing facilities, guiding teams, or growing a business.
