Keri Steers didn’t necessarily pursue a career in facilities, rather, it found her. Growing up surrounded by people who worked in the trades, helped evolve her love for solving problems and building things right. In her position as the regional facilities manager for Dutch Bros Coffee, she gets to travel to different locations, improving facilities while also making a difference in people’s lives.
FMD: What made you pursue a career in facilities management?
Steers: Honestly, I didn’t pursue it. Facilities found me. I grew up around construction. My dad owned a company, so blueprints and power tools were part of everyday life. That background evolved into a deep love for solving problems, building things right and helping teams run smoothly behind the scenes. Facilities management is a career where no two days are the same, and that challenge excites me.
FMD: What was your first job in the field, and how did it shape your career?
Steers: My first real job in the field was with Boyer Hill Military Housing. I was responsible for coordinating maintenance and ensuring homes were move-in ready for military families. It taught me the value of precision, timelines and empathy. Taking care of people’s living environments helped me realize just how impactful this line of work can be.
FMD: What does a typical day or week look like for you?
Steers: Every day is a mix of planned strategy and unexpected surprises. My responsibilities include managing vendor performance, ensuring timely completion of work orders, supporting new store construction and working closely with our field leaders to keep everything running smoothly. A typical week includes site visits, vendor calls, project reviews and a healthy dose of problem-solving.
FMD: Are there any pivotal moments or decisions that significantly impacted your career?
Steers: The most pivotal moments for me aren’t tied to titles or promotions. They’re the times people have come back to thank me long after I’ve left a role. Whether it’s a military spouse who remembered a simple troubleshooting tip I shared that saved them time and money or a former team member who felt supported during a tough time, those moments stick with me. Now I get to have that same impact on a much larger scale, and it’s a reminder that what we do behind the scenes really matters.
FMD: What do you enjoy most about working in facilities?
Steers: There’s something deeply satisfying about being the one who quietly makes everything work. I love the fast pace, the constant learning and the problem solving. Most of all, I love supporting the people in the field so they can do their jobs with fewer obstacles in their way.
FMD: What accomplishments in your career are you proudest of?
Steers: I’m proud of the trust I’ve built with the teams I support. Whether it’s helping launch a new store or solving a critical issue quickly, knowing people count on me — and that I deliver — means a lot. I’ve also helped streamline processes and implement vendor platforms that have made a real difference in our efficiency and communication.
FMD: What skills or certifications have been most valuable to your success?
Steers: Hands-on construction knowledge has been a huge asset. But just as important are communication and leadership skills. This role isn’t just about fixing things. It’s about bringing people together to solve problems. Being able to speak the language of both technicians and executives has been key. I’m also a proud member of Restaurant Facility Management Association which has helped me grow my network and sharpen my skills.
FMD: What advice would you give to someone aspiring to become a facility manager?
Steers: Stay curious, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. Learn from everyone around you, from contractors to store managers. Build relationships, take pride in the details and always follow through. This field rewards those who care and who take action.
If you are interested in being featured in the Career Path column, please email Mackenna Moralez at mackenna.moralez@tradepress.com
Mackenna Moralez is the associate editor of the facilities market and the host of the Facilities in Focus podcast.
