For our June employee spotlight, Facility Performance Consulting had the pleasure to sit down with Muamer Zigo, our Technical Project Manager based in Arizona, USA. Muamer is an integral part of our digital building services team and is supporting our delivery services for some key projects for our clients across the Americas region. Muamer brings a strong background of real life hands-on technical field knowledge and project management experience to deliver exceptional service to our clients.

We took this opportunity to discuss Muamer’s work life at FPC, his inspirations, his passions outside of work, and more.
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Please summarize your professional career journey so far, and how this has helped shape you into the professional that you are today?

I left my homeland of Bosnia in 2011 after finishing University, with a burning desire to travel and explore the world. I made the courageous decision to embark on a journey to the United States. It was a daunting experience, but I was up for the challenge.

The early years were filled with various roles and experiences that shaped my professional journey. I started as a Data Center Fiber Technician, where I gained valuable insights into the intricate workings of data centers and networks. Progressing from there, I assumed leadership positions as a Lead Supervisor and later as a Service Manager in the Alarm and Security industry. Throughout these roles, I not only demonstrated my ability to adapt and grow, but also honed my understanding of project management in the context of data centers and network infrastructure. However, within this whirlwind of uncertainty, I discovered the strength to persevere. Each challenge I encountered became a stepping stone, propelling me forward on my path to success.

A few years later I found myself at the forefront of innovation - Google, which opened doors to endless possibilities, allowing me to contribute to cutting-edge technology and be part of a global innovation ecosystem. Over a span of five years, I had the privilege of being involved in a diverse range of projects. These encompassed various areas such as MDF/IDF Life Cycle Management, Audio-Video systems, WiFi/Access Point upgrades, and the configuration and maintenance of devices from industry-leading brands like Cisco, Aruba, Juniper, and more. This experience showcased my ability to navigate and excel in dynamic environments, consistently delivering successful outcomes.

Prior to my appointment as a Technical Project Manager at FPC, I had amassed over eight years of invaluable experience and expertise in the field of Project Management. I am genuinely passionate about the discipline, and the opportunity to be part of the new construction team at FPC is truly exhilarating.
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How do you see the future evolving for the Digital Buildings professional and industry as a whole?

In my opinion, the future holds tremendous promise for the Digital Buildings professional and the industry at large. As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, we can expect to witness a transformative shift in the way buildings are designed, constructed, and managed. The integration of digital solutions, such as Internet of Things (IoT) devices, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, will enable buildings to become more intelligent, efficient, and sustainable. This evolution will not only revolutionize the way we interact with our built environment but also create new opportunities for professionals in areas such as building automation, cybersecurity, and smart infrastructure. The Digital Buildings industry is poised for exponential growth, and those who stay at the forefront of these emerging technologies and trends will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry.
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What is it that you really enjoy about working at FPC?

Having spent a significant portion of our waking hours in the workplace, it becomes imperative to cultivate a healthy and enjoyable workspace that considers the mental well-being of employees amidst work stress and deadline pressures. In this regard, I have personally observed that the family culture at our company sets us apart from others by demonstrating a genuine concern for the welfare of its employees. This nurturing environment, coupled with factors such as a conducive work atmosphere, ample developmental opportunities, and the potential for career growth, greatly contributes to my overall satisfaction with my role at FPC. Additionally, one of the aspects I particularly appreciate about FPC is the collaborative nature of working alongside talented and supportive individuals from diverse regions.
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What’s one thing most people don’t know about you that is non-work related?

I have a deep-rooted passion for drawing and Architectural Design. This creative outlet allows me to express my imagination and bring ideas to life on paper. Whether sketching intricate architectural structures or exploring innovative design concepts, it's a form of artistic expression that nurtures my creativity and provides a welcome escape from the demands of everyday life.
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Who inspires you?

When it comes to sources of inspiration, my father holds a special place in my heart. His unwavering commitment to his family and the love he consistently showed towards his wife and two sons serve as a constant reminder of the values I hold dear. Throughout his life, he exemplified the virtues of hard work, persistence, and dedication, instilling within me a deep-rooted belief that perseverance and tenacity are the keys to success. Today, as a father myself to two wonderful boys, I find myself echoing his teachings and striving to pass on these invaluable life lessons. Despite the physical distance separating me from my parents as I live on the other side of the planet, the love and respect we share transcends boundaries and remains an integral part of who I am. Without a doubt, my father is my ultimate hero and continues to inspire me each and every day.
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‍If you could go back in time, what historical event would you want to see?

If given the opportunity to travel back in time, witnessing the 1984 Winter Olympics in my hometown of Sarajevo would be an extraordinary experience. The Games showcased the beauty of the city, united people from diverse backgrounds, and celebrated the spirit of athletic excellence and international camaraderie.
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‍How do you like to start and end your day?

Every morning, I embrace the early hours, relishing in a moment of self-care before my two spirited sons awaken, poised to conquer the day. The gym becomes my sanctuary, where I mold my mindset into one of positivity and resilience. Our family unites over a delectable smoothie, as we embark on daily activities. 

As the sun sets, the evenings bring a unique twist. Yet, amidst the delightful chaos of putting our little ones to bed, my wife and I find solace in a simple cup of tea and snack, watching our favorite show or simply planning our next day's activities. 
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‍What’s the one thing you are learning now or learned recently?

In the past several months, I immersed myself in the world of DIY projects. I have learned the art of house renovation and fixes, transforming my living space into a place of pride and joy. From illuminating every nook and cranny of my home with new lighting fixtures and accent walls, to creating a backyard oasis with artificial grass and pavers. Building a playground for my children has been a testament to my newfound skills as well. 
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What behavior or personality trait do you most attribute your success to and why?

Combining the traits of embracing pivotal moments, taking calculated risks, effective communication, and treating others with respect has been a winning formula for my personal and professional growth. It has allowed me to navigate uncertain terrains, forge strong connections, and build a foundation of trust and mutual respect.
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What led you to this career?

What led me to pursue a career in project management was a pivotal experience I had approximately eight years ago. It was during this time that I first had the opportunity to step into a leadership role and witness the significant impact it had on me. Drawing upon my innate personality and childhood experiences, which were rooted in leadership roles, whether it be in sports or at school, I discovered a deep resonance with the responsibilities and challenges inherent in project management.

The ability to lead, communicate effectively with a diverse team, and drive projects towards successful outcomes became a tremendous source of motivation for me. I found great satisfaction in orchestrating teams, fostering collaboration, and delivering tangible results. This realization sparked a desire within me to further develop my skills and knowledge in the field of project management.
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What is the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?

The best advice I've received came from my insightful 4-year-old child, who once said, "It's okay, Daddy, we all need a little help sometimes." Those simple words served as a powerful reminder that seeking support and accepting assistance is not a sign of weakness, but rather a natural part of life's journey. It taught me the value of humility, empathy, and the strength that can be found in reaching out to others when faced with challenges.
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If you weren’t in this line of work, what career would you want to pursue?

As a child, I held aspirations of becoming a firefighter or an architect. However, as I grew older, my desire to explore the world took hold. Inspired by the Netflix show "Somebody Feed Phil," I now dream of embarking on a global journey, documenting the diverse cuisine found across different countries. Combining my passion for travel and food, I envision creating a captivating documentary that celebrates the culinary wonders of the world.

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