Built to Last: Tristan Andre

Buildings are built and operators make them last, Operators can get things built and it may not last but it will hold for now!

Welcome to the 'Built to Last: Unveiling the World of Building Operations' series. This series is dedicated to shining a spotlight on the dedicated building operations professionals who keep our built environments running smoothly day in and day out. From navigating the intricacies of infrastructure management to balancing the demands of work and personal life, we invite you to journey alongside Tristan Andre and explore the multifaceted world of building operations. Discover the challenges he overcame and the stories that shape their resilience in an ever-evolving industry.

Currently a Building Operator, with over 5 years experience. I started my education at Conestoga College for Police Foundations, after graduating that program I worked as Security at the Waterloo Regional Courthouse, and fell in love with the Building Operator job. I started at Europro as a Junior Operator in 2019 at one of the largest buildings they own in the Kitchener area. After completing some of the BES (Building Environmental Systems) courses at Seneca College, I began to think outside of the box to complete tasks, and focused more on learning how my and other buildings work. On my personal time you can catch me either at the gym, fishing or at my Fiancée's tattoo shop.

What aspect of your current job as a building operator do you enjoy the most, and why?

The aspect of my current job as a Building Operator that I enjoy the most is how everyday is different. Everyday brings new challenges and tasks. One day can be a tenant work order that does not make any sense and the next day it could be helping a plumber shut down the water to your building. I love the feeling of helping and communicating with my tenants as well, I try to make them enjoy being in the office.

Can you share a memorable challenge you've faced in your role as a building operator, and how you overcame it?

One of the biggest challenge's I have had to deal with was when I first started. We had a tenant in my building that would "play" with their own plumbing. Long story, short I had the water shut off to a toilet explode on me, causing a high pressure of water to go everywhere. I was maybe three weeks into the job and my supervisor was off that the time. Like any new Operator I panicked, I didn't know what to do, after my manager came over and helped me shut down the water he explained to me that I am the guys that needs to keep his cool, I am the guy that needs to fix it. After that day I learned everything is just a piece of equipment, and everything can be worked on. Now even in a fire alarm, I have taught myself not to panic, it's actually helped me a lot in my career.

How do you stay updated with the latest trends and developments in building operations and management?

I mostly stay up to date with Building Operation trends via LinkedIn. It's a great way to communicate and building connections.

In what areas do you feel there's room for growth or improvement in your knowledge and skills as a building operator?

I feel like the biggest growth for me will be finishing the BES course from Seneca. I am sure there are things in some of those courses that I am not aware of. To me I treat everyday like a learning opportunity. The moment you stopped learning is the moment you failed.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering a career in building operations and management?

The thing I always tell everyone no matter what they're doing is that you got to want it. Showing up and learning, going out of your way and learning. I've been a Building Operator for five years and I still look at every building, when I walk into a mall I look at the fire systems, I trace their HVAC. It's something that really interests me, and I want to learn it. That's how you become successful is wanting to learn what you do, that goes for any job, not only Building Operations.

How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively in a dynamic work environment like commercial real estate?

I prioritize tasks by the amount of people it will effect and importance. An example would be a fire alarm would take priority over everything, second would be a water leak. If a situation can cause a mass amount of damage it jumps right up the list as being a top priority for me.

Outside of work, what are some hobbies or interests that you enjoy pursuing?

Outside of work I really enjoy powerlifting at the gym. When I am there I lose all thought of work and personal issues and just focus on lifting. It's basically my therapy. I started powerlifting about seven years ago and took a break during COVID due to gyms being closed. I also really enjoy fishing and being outdoors. I just started fishing last year, so it's a new hobby for me, but I am excited to get back out on the water this summer. One big thing about me that most people don't know is I love to help out around the community. I have volunteered at a number of different organizations. Last was for the City of London Christmas Parade, where I dressed up as the Gingerbread man for the kids. Last but not least I do all my Fiancée's social media for her tattoo page. I really enjoy taking photos, andengaging with people online so I figure I'd help her out with that. So, if I am not talking about Building Operation stuff, fishing or powerlifting I am definitely talking about tattoos.

Thanks for reading! Stay tuned for more insights, stories, and initiatives in the next edition of the Built to Last: Unveiling the World of Building Operations newsletter. Please feel free to share or comment your thoughts below, and as always don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions/suggestions.

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