VBE Spotlight on: Facilities Partners & Solutions, LLC

Facilities, Partners & Solutions

Facilities, Partners & Solutions was founded in 2023 by Kathleen Waters.

NaVOBA proudly shines this week's VBE spotlight on Facilities Partners & Solutions LLC (FPS), a company exemplifying diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the facility management sector. Led by Kathleen Waters, a seasoned expert with over two decades in the industry, FPS is redefining the workspace by valuing and uplifting its diverse workforce.

FPS stands out for its commitment to creating positive work cultures that encourage teamwork, learning, and growth. With Kathleen’s extensive experience in leading facility management teams and her focus on integrity and authenticity, FPS successfully delivers modern soft services in various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, education, and commercial industries.

FPS’s mission goes beyond just providing services; it's about nurturing individual growth and making a real difference in the community by ensuring every employee feels valued and seen.

Learn more about Facilities, Partners, & Solutions, LLC at https://www.yourfacilitypartner.com

About the Business - Honesty, Credibility, & Professionalism

What services do you provide?

"Janitorial, Security, Snow/Ice Removal."

Who are your primary customers?

"Government Entities, Property Management Companies, Private Sector Industries that include Education, Life Sciences, Corporate Offices, & Distribution/Manufacturing."

When and how did you start your business?

"First part of 2023 - I started the company with a desire to provide a diverse solution for businesses seeking soft services in their facilities while supporting the front line staff providing the work.

I have close to 25 year experience in the field."

Business Growth Challenges - Growing Through Challenge and Change

What were some of the challenges in starting your business?

"Identifying target markets, overcoming the question 'when did you start and how many employees do you have', and understanding the requirements & paperwork to be compliant with the State"

What is the key to the success of your business?

"Using the resources available, networking, branding, and showing up."

What lessons learned can you share with people to make their business succeed?

"Get certified! Certification makes all the difference in the world. Also, network and have a strong capabilities statement highlighting your differentiators."

What pitfalls should they avoid?

"Paying for someone to get your business certified - there are plenty of organizations and companies that will support your journey at no cost - and they will provide mentoring!"

What other information about you and your business would you like to share with the NaVOBA Community?

"We really are in business to make a difference - to both our clients and our staff."

Service information

Branch:

United States Army

Service Years:

1979-1984

Highest Rank Attained:

E5, Sergeant

Why did you join the military?

"It was the best option available to me at the time."

Military Occupation:

"74D, Computer Operator in the Field, Training and Re-enlistment NCO"

Any significant military achievements / experience you would like to mention?

"Authored an ARTEP for my MOS, and Top Honor Graduate in Leadership."

Biography/Fun Facts

People might want to know?

"That it was not until recently that I embraced sharing that I am a Veteran"

What is your favorite sports team?

"E-A-G-L-E-S"

In ten years you see yourself?

"Growing Christmas Trees, having a multi-car garage, and several project cars."