Learn From International Leaders At The WFBSC Congress

Janelle Bruland

The World Federation of Buildings Service Contractors (WFBSC) Congress takes place Sept. 18-20 in Berlin, Germany. The international event will attract building service contractors from around the world. 

Janelle Bruland, president and CEO of Management Services Northwest in Ferndale, Washington, has attended past Congresses and here she shares what BSCs can expect in 2017. 
 
What can you tell me about the announced speakers so far? What do you expect BSCs to learn from these speakers?

Bruland: Gunther Oettinger is regarded as a profound and high-level authority in the field of digitalization. Daniel Domscheit-Berg is a computer scientist and Internet activist. He is one of the supporters of the Charter of the Digital Fundamental Rights of the European Union. Dr. Willms Buhse is one of Europe’s leading innovative thinkers. His ideas and insights have sparked enthusiasm with many global listeners all over the world.
 
What networking opportunities exist at the Congress for BSCs?

Bruland: Global networking, as there will be visitors from all over the world. In addition to the educational events, there are several receptions and tours offered during the week in Berlin, to create opportunities for networking and information sharing. 
 
How does this event differ than some other industry shows?

Bruland: Having been to many industry shows, the most different part of attending the WFBSC in another country is that often English is not the primary language. It is unique to wear headphones tuned in to the English channel to listen to many of the presenters. 
 
A few years ago, the Congress was in New York. Did that help build the profile of the event?

Bruland: The event in New York was spectacular and certainly helped build the profile of the event, as well as raised the bar for other countries hosting in the coming years.