Succeed in Facilities Management Without Engineering Degree

Can you build a successful career in facilities management without engineering degree? Absolutely. While engineering plays a central role in keeping facilities running efficiently, FM is much more than just building services. It’s a multidisciplinary field that benefits from diverse expertise. That said, it’s no surprise that many facility managers start their careers as engineers. The connection is natural because a strong technical knowledge often complements operational leadership. I explore this relationship further previously in the post below.

The symbiotic relationship is clear because engineering expertise strengthens facilities operations, while FM ensures that technical solutions align with business needs, that supports organization’s core business.

What is Considered a Non-Technical Person?

In the context of FM (or at least form my own lens), a non-technical person is someone who does not have a formal education or work experience in engineering, architecture, or specialized technical or engineering fields like HVAC, electrical systems, or mechanical maintenance. This includes professionals with degrees in business administration, management, human resources, finance, law, real estate, hospitality, or environmental studies. But, let’s see how they bring valuable skills in leadership, operations, and strategy.

The Evolving Role of Facilities Management

Gone are the days when FM was only about maintenance services (the shift needs a hard reset, but I can see it’s a positive progress). Today, it’s a strategic function that balances:

Operations & Maintenance – Ensuring assets function efficiently.
Sustainability & ESG – Managing energy efficiency and environmental impact.
Financial Strategy – Budgeting, procurement, and cost management.
Technology & Digital Transformation – Leveraging smart buildings and IoT.
Workplace Experience & Safety – Enhancing productivity and well-being.

Hot to succeed in facilities management without engineering degree

While engineers and technical experts are essential in FM, non-technical professionals bring equally valuable skills. Here’s how:

Strategic Management & Operations – Running a facility is like running a business. Professionals in management and operations contribute by handling budgets, contracts, procurement, and overall facility strategies.
Workplace Experience & People Management – FM isn’t just about buildings; it’s about people. HR professionals and workplace strategists optimize space usage and enhance employee experience.
Compliance & Risk Management – Facilities are subject to regulations, safety laws, and sustainability requirements. Legal experts, surveyors, and compliance officers help organizations stay compliant.
Technology & Digital Transformation – FM is becoming increasingly tech-driven, with smart building systems, IoT, and data analytics playing a big role. Non-tech professionals with project management or IT governance skills bridge the gap between operations and technology.
Sustainability & ESG – With a growing focus on green buildings and energy efficiency, professionals from environmental science, finance, or corporate governance backgrounds lead sustainability initiatives in FM.

Adapting to Technical Teams & Managing Engineers

One of the biggest challenges for non-technical professionals in FM is working with engineers and technical teams. Here’s how they can successfully adapt:

Learn the Basics – You don’t need to be an HVAC engineer, but understanding fundamental concepts in building systems, electrical systems, plumbing, and energy management will help in making informed decisions.
Leverage the Expertise Around You – Engineers and technicians are skilled professionals; a good FM leader knows how to rely on their expertise while providing direction and support.
Ask the Right Questions – Instead of focusing on deep technical details, focus on impact. For example, ask: “How will this HVAC upgrade improve efficiency and reduce costs?”
Use Data & Reports – Many building management systems provide dashboards with key performance indicators (KPIs). Learning how to interpret data on energy usage, equipment efficiency, and maintenance schedules helps bridge the technical gap.
Enhance Communication & Collaboration – Technical teams often communicate in highly specialized terms. Translating technical discussions into business impact and aligning technical goals with company strategy is a key role for non-technical FM professionals.
Invest in Continuous Learning – Short courses, certifications, and industry networking can help non-technical professionals develop technical literacy without needing an engineering degree.

The Key to Success? Learning & Adaptability

Certifications like IFMA Facility Management Professional (FMP) help non-technical professionals build industry knowledge and credibility. Additionally, universities in Malaysia offer specialized Master’s programs in Facilities Management, providing deeper insights into asset management, sustainability, and building operations. Institutions such as University of Malaya and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia have established FM related postgraduate courses that can enhance your expertise and career prospects.

Whether through structured academic programs or hands-on industry experience, Whether through structured academic programs or hands-on industry experience, continuous learning is key to excelling in facilities management. Everyone’s learning curve is different, so find your own path. Whether through formal education, certifications, or on the job learning is essential to long-term success.

From my own experience, working in FM provides the opportunity to collaborate closely with domain experts in HVAC, building automation, contract management, HR, finance and more. This exposure offers invaluable learning experiences and accelerates professional growth, making FM a dynamic and rewarding career path.

Final Thoughts

So, there are possible ways for how to succeed in facilities management without engineering degree and progress your career to a Facility Manager. The industry needs a mix of skills, and non-engineers have a lot to offer. FM is evolving, and the demand for strategic thinkers, communicators, and problem-solvers is higher than ever. If you’re looking for a career that blends operations, people, and strategy, facilities management might just be the right fit for you.