Faces of Facilities: William Keys on Taking Chances

Why It Matters

Keys’ perspective illustrates how strategic risk‑taking and talent development can drive operational excellence in a fragmented, multi‑site hospitality portfolio, while his outlook on AI signals a pivotal shift for the broader facilities management industry.

Key Takeaways

• Keys oversees facilities for nine of Under Canvas’ 17 glamping sites.
• He progressed from custodial work to regional manager after a Yellowstone stint.
• Emphasizes employee training and recognition as core to FM value.
• Predictive maintenance and AI expected to transform FM in next five years.
• Flexibility needed to handle varied environmental conditions across nationwide properties.

Pulse Analysis

William Keys’ career trajectory exemplifies the power of calculated risk in facilities management. Starting as a summer custodian at a Pennsylvania state park, he leveraged hands‑on opportunities to transition into technical roles, eventually spending six years at Yellowstone National Park before joining Under Canvas in 2019. Today he directs facilities for nearly half of the company’s glamping portfolio, a role that blends regulatory compliance, capital planning, and staff mentorship. His story resonates with professionals who view every assignment as a stepping stone toward broader leadership.

Managing nine geographically dispersed sites presents a unique set of challenges that demand flexibility and localized solutions. Each property confronts distinct climate pressures, maintenance cycles, and regulatory nuances, forcing Keys to craft site‑specific preventative programs while maintaining a unified standards framework. He stresses that investing in employee education, recognition, and retention not only boosts morale but also translates into measurable performance gains. This people‑first approach aligns with industry research linking skilled, engaged workforces to lower operating costs and higher guest satisfaction in hospitality environments.

Looking ahead, Keys anticipates AI and advanced data analytics will accelerate predictive maintenance adoption across the sector. By analyzing sensor data and historical work orders, facilities teams can anticipate equipment failures before they occur, reducing downtime and extending asset life. The technology, once limited to large corporate campuses, is becoming scalable for multi‑site operators like Under Canvas. For newcomers, Keys advises a daily commitment to learning and asking questions—a mindset that will be essential as the industry embraces increasingly sophisticated digital tools.