The WASBO Spring Conference is a key event for facilities managers, providing valuable educational, networking, and professional growth opportunities. However, due to limited district funds, many custodial staff members often have to finance this independently. Understanding this financial burden, Focus on Energy alleviates the cost, enabling dedicated professionals to pursue their certification without the added stress of financial constraints.

To apply for the scholarship, applicants fill out a survey form detailing their needs. The application process allows them to share their career aspirations and the impact attending the conference would have on their professional development. This year, two recipients stood out for their commitment toward their Facilities Manager Core Certification. Learn how they benefitted from attending the 2024 Spring Conference:

Timothy Wandrey, Custodian, School District of Greenfield

"Enrolling in the Facilities Manager Core Certification through WASBO is helping me develop and grow my school custodial and maintenance career. Being selected for the scholarship allowed me to complete two of the three modules offered at the Spring Conference, which I need to finish my certification. I benefitted greatly from this opportunity to network with my peers. Their knowledge and experience are helping me improve and work towards a management position."

James Mecozzi, Head Custodian, Kenosha Unified School District

"Winning this scholarship gave me the opportunity to complete the necessary modules for the Facility Manager Certification. It’s preparing me for future supervisory openings, bringing me one step closer to my career goals."

By sponsoring these scholarships, Focus on Energy supports individual custodians and invests in improving school facilities management overall. As scholarship recipients complete their certifications, they bring enhanced skills and

knowledge back to their districts, fostering well-maintained and more efficient educational environments.

Empowering dedicated individuals like Timothy Wandrey and James Mecozzi to achieve their certification goals and advance in their careers by removing financial barriers highlights the importance of professional development for custodial staff. As these professionals grow, so does the quality of facility management in schools across Wisconsin, benefiting students, staff, and the greater community.