The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines a leader as “a person who has commanding authority or influence”. Whether you like it or not, you are a leader, either a leader in your department or a leader in your organization. The maintenance and facilities departments unquestionably have authority and influence over the organization, but maybe not as much as you would like or feel necessary. Some of our best speakers are in the trenches of maintenance and facility management everyday. They climbed the ladder in both corporate and educational organizations to become leaders in their field. Make sure you attend the general session “Rising through the Ranks: How to Achieve Leadership in Facilities Management” at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday September 16, in the exhibit hall. Attendees will have a chance hear first hand how they rose through the ranks, ask questions and will go back to work inspired.