* To receive notifications for committee meetings please sign up to be on the committee following instructions at the bottom of this page. more info...
Disasters can strike without warning — and even routine maintenance issues can escalate into major crises if mishandled. This essential seminar is designed to equip building engineers and facility professionals with practical strategies to reduce risk, protect assets, and respond effectively to events such as fires, floods, and hazardous material incidents.
Through real-world examples and an interactive scenario exercise, attendees will learn how to:
Identify common vulnerabilities in facilities
Implement proactive prevention measures
Take critical first-response actions to minimize damage, downtime, and tenant complaints
Each participant will also receive a Fire & Flood Emergency Response Checklist to strengthen their readiness plans and improve real-time decision-making.
By the end of the session, you’ll walk away with confidence, actionable strategies, and enhanced preparedness to mitigate the impact of both predictable and unexpected disasters.
PRESENTERS:
Andrew Hansen Operations Manager, Austin Hi-Tech Restoration
Andrew Hansen is an experienced operations leader with a strong background in project management, estimating, and restoration services. Before joining Austin Hi-Tech Restoration, he served as an Area Property Manager for a national residential property management and ownership group, where he gained firsthand experience navigating catastrophic property losses and complex insurance claims. With insight from both the property management and restoration perspectives, Andrew brings a well-rounded understanding of the challenges building engineers face when disaster strikes — and practical strategies to address them.
Wendy Richey Business Development Manager, Austin Hi-Tech Restoration
Wendy Richey is a seasoned business development and marketing professional with deep expertise in building strong client relationships within the restoration industry. She has guided clients through property losses across both commercial and residential sectors, helping them navigate the recovery process with clarity and confidence. Wendy’s client-focused approach and industry knowledge make her a valuable resource for organizations preparing for and responding to disaster events.
* To receive notifications for committee meetings please sign up to be on the committee following instructions at the bottom of this page. more info...
Think about a conversation you need to have where emotions run high or opinions differ. In this session, you’ll develop the skills to lean in, ask thoughtful questions, listen actively, and gain deeper understanding and perspective on critical issues. These tools will help you communicate more effectively, build trust and respect, and create opportunities for growth. Participants will explore a proven communication model, identify triggers that push their buttons, and understand the five conflict styles (Competing, Collaborating, Compromising, Avoiding, and Accommodating), along with practical examples of when each style is most effective.
Program Objectives
Define the causes of conflict and why we avoid tough conversations.
Learn to be curious and become an active listener.
Understand the importance of creating a psychologically safe environment.
Improve your empathy and how you respond to different people in different situations.
Learn the five conflict styles (Direct, Spirited, Considerate, Systematic) to the different ways people perceive the world.
Study the process for preparing and facilitating a tough conversation.
Kevin Karschnik is a globally recognized keynote speaker and author, with a focus on positivity, leadership, and burnout. Drawing on over 33 years of experience, Kevin delivers high-energy, dynamic keynote speeches and impactful training workshops that empower business professionals to excel in today’s fast-paced, competitive world. He has inspired tens of thousands of professionals from leading companies such as Dell, Emerson, GE, and Lockheed in 14 countries. When he’s not speaking or writing, Kevin enjoys managing his fantasy football team, playing pickleball with his wife Tracy, and ordering in his favorite pie from 600 Degrees Pizzeria.
* Please note that due to schedule changes AAFAME will not be participating in the Veteran's Parade this year. It was moved from November 11th to November 8th and we have a ramp project that same day.
Join us in building accessibility for those in need! We’re looking for dedicated volunteers to help construct a ramp that will improve mobility and independence for a community member. Whether you can assist for a few hours or the entire day, your support is invaluable.
Modular Build – Thursday, November 6th at 3:00 PM
3 volunteers needed to pre-assemble sections of the ramp
Materials Loading – Friday, November 7th at 3:00 PM
3 volunteers needed to assist with organizing and loading materials
Ramp Build – Saturday, November 8th
Morning Shift (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM): 4 volunteers needed
* To receive notifications for committee meetings please sign up to be on the committee following instructions at the bottom of this page. more info...
* To receive notifications for committee meetings please sign up to be on the committee following instructions at the bottom of this page. more info...
It's never too late to prepare your building! Our winterization presentation is designed to equip commercial building owners and facility managers with practical strategies to prepare their properties for the colder months. We’ll cover key areas such as plumbing, HVAC systems, roofing, and exterior maintenance to prevent damage and ensure efficient operations during winter. By the end, attendees will have a clear road-map to protect their buildings, reduce energy costs, and minimize disruptions throughout the winter season.
Presenters:
Blair Howell
Sales & Operations Manager
Battalion Fire Protection
Deric Wallace
Service & Project Sales
HTS Engineering & Service more info...
