FM skills for the next decade: From compliance to capability

FM is changing fast. The expectations are higher, the skillset is broader, and the route into the profession is anything but clear. 

In this episode of The FM Fix, we're joined by Emma Bellingham, then Head of Academy at IWFM, to unpack what training and qualifications really mean for modern facilities managers, and where the industry still needs to catch up.

We talk about why traditional career paths no longer fit the FM role, how qualifications should support real-world capability (not just compliance), and what skills will matter most over the next decade. 

Emma also shares advice for FMs who feel stuck, overlooked, or unsure where to invest in their development, plus what organisations can do better if they actually want to retain talent. 

What is The FM Fix?

Your monthly hit of the future of FM, cutting through all the noise (and the BS).

Each edition/episode brings you clear, practical insights to help you stay compliant, reduce downtime, and embrace sustainability. From emerging tech and AI to the nuts and bolts of day to day ops, we’re here to support you in doing your best work.

Blending expert advice, digital tools, and a bit of common sense to help you shift from reactive to proactive, making your work life easier.