I had the wonderful opportunity to attend IFMA’s World Workplace 2025 in Minneapolis, and as a newly credentialed certified facilities manager, I even got the chance to be at US Bank Stadium with all my fellow facilities professionals. As I traveled through different airports, a particular moment really stood out to me. The airline agent who assisted me was visually impaired. I noticed he was using a special visual device designed to work side-side-by side with a colleague who provided guidance as needed. What struck me wasn't the accommodation itself—it was observing this professional work with such competence and attention to detail and fully engaged while equipped to excel at his job. There was such a partnership that felt natural, inclusive and humane! It struck a chord as a facilities manager observing this moment of progression.
That moment captured perfectly what I've learned about creating truly inclusive workspaces – when we design environments where everyone can contribute, they put in their best work.
What resonated the most was how this professional had everything they needed to do their job with ease, care, safety and dignity. It felt like a true effort by the employer and the employee to establish a workplace that is built to serve the customer and naturally empower all workers, regardless of ability, that we all have the right capabilities as long as our environment and our systems set us up for success.
As a facilities manager, I have the opportunity and the challenge to impact people and their ability to get their work done in a safe, productive and pleasing environment. I believe strongly that the essence of workplace productivity is how the person feels in, within and surrounding their professional environment.
While still ensuring that our regulatory and compliant rules are adhered to, in our industry where the people are number one, curating spaces that humanize people and the work that they do for impact, cohesiveness and collaboration while allowing them to feel and work at their best.
As a facilities manager for a non-profit, we are currently in the middle of a disability audit. Not because we have to, but because we want to and need to. Our mission, for the children of the world, encompasses an alignment of values, integrity and humanity. This is an alignment of values and mission to all the children of the world, therefore if we are committed and aligned to do this for the children of the world, then our workspaces and environment should also reflect that commitment for our employees and stakeholders.
I recently refreshed an office. We ensured that all microwaves had braille, that our wayfinding signs were clear and accessible, our wellness rooms designed for nursing mothers, and a prayer respite for mental and emotional health are curated for a more neurodivergent environment for sensory needs. This commitment from our facilities teams provides such a sense of unity, inclusivity and belonging and we would not have it any other way.
As a facilities professional, and a woman in facilities management, ensuring that our workspaces serve us all while adapting, shifting and pivoting along the external forces–that at times- drives us to have to make sacrifices. I am committed to humanizing and diversifying the workplace and the environment for all.
Maria Ruiz is a Facilities Operations Manager at UNICEF USA with 15+ years of cross-sector expertise. Overseeing multiple national offices, she applies Lean Six Sigma methodologies to create sustainable, efficient workspaces supporting humanitarian missions. Her writing champions women in facilities management by blending technical knowledge with practical insights that empower professionals in this traditionally male-dominated field. Committed to work-life balance, Maria recharges by training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with her son—finding that the discipline and focus required on the mat enhances her leadership approach in facilities management.
