What Do a Facilities Director, Safety Director, and Fire Chief Have in Common?

At first glance, a facilities director, safety director, and fire chief may appear to be completely different roles – and you wouldn’t be wrong, as each operates in its own distinct sphere of technical expertise, has tailored day-to-day responsibilities, and follows a unique mission.

But, according to David Hall, who has held all three roles over the course of his career, there is a throughline between the three that has provided him with:

• A national professional organization that supports his work
• Access to technical resources and continuing education
• A peer network that understands his daily challenges

Where did he find these things? APPA.

 National Organization, Individual Support

After a quarter century as a firefighter, David retired from his role as Fire Chief of Springfield, Missouri. He then transitioned into a role in higher education at Missouri State University, becoming the first Director of University Safety and later serving as Director of Facilities Management at the college.

David points to APPA as the constant that remained across all three of his major career moves. The professional organizations at the state, regional, and national levels played a critical role in supporting his effectiveness, his teams’ development, and his own leadership growth, giving him the confidence and connections to navigate a career path that might seem unconventional at first glance.

Learning In Order to Lead

 The core responsibilities of all three of these roles, and many others, are remarkably consistent: managing people, overseeing budgets, shaping strategy, directing operations, and working closely with executives and elected officials. However, the technical knowledge needed to lead confidently in each role is where David found himself searching for ways to ensure he was ready to meet the challenge.

For facilities professionals, APPA helps bridge the technical knowledge gap. Through the Institute for Facilities Management, frequent conferences, and an extensive range of topical webinars, the organization delivers critical insights on emerging trends and operational best practices. Whether it’s deferred maintenance, decarbonization, utility infrastructure, or technology integration, APPA provides facilities leaders with the tools they need to succeed.

 Building Networks of Support

According to David, one of the most valuable aspects of professional membership has been the opportunity to build and maintain a strong peer network. Leadership, especially at the institutional level, can feel isolated. Having access to a network of experienced professionals who face similar pressures and decisions offers vital perspective and support. Hall emphasizes that this network has helped him navigate unfamiliar challenges, benchmark solutions, and continually improve in each leadership role he has taken on.

Hall encourages others in the facilities field, whether they are just starting out or already established in leadership, to take full advantage of what APPA and its regional and state affiliates have to offer. The structure, training, and peer engagement found within these organizations can shape careers, strengthen teams, and enhance the institutions they serve.