Just weeks before the fall semester began, Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) in Laredo welcomed Aramark Facilities Management as its new maintenance partner. Tasked with managing the maintenance program and team members, Aramark quickly transitioned into its role, ensuring a seamless handover with no disruptions to campus services.
“With a very quick transition, we began overseeing maintenance operations with little to zero gaps in service,” said Joel Burnias, General Manager at TAMIU for Aramark Facilities Management. “We are honored that TAMIU has put their trust in us—and are working to introduce programs and technology that maximize client satisfaction and ensure students have the best possible experiences on campus.”
New Systems and Innovations
A state-of-the-art corrective maintenance system has been introduced to streamline work orders and workflows. This computerized system organizes all maintenance asset data across the campus, facilitates the development of preventative maintenance schedules, and tracks work requests and orders.
The system also provides TAMIU with detailed reports on work completion, timeliness, labor, and costs, offering real-time feedback to ensure efficiency and transparency. To maintain quality control, the platform periodically surveys maintenance requestors for their feedback, supporting continuous improvement and client satisfaction.
Additionally, an internal quality control app tracks and assesses completed work orders. Frontline managers and supervisors use the app to conduct quality assurance inspections, ensuring compliance with Aramark’s standards. The system documents every aspect of maintenance work, including the technical details, labor hours, and material costs. This data feeds into key performance indicators, which are shared with TAMIU in weekly and monthly reports.
Positive Early Results
“We are already seeing positive changes with Aramark,” said Juan J. Castillo, Interim President of TAMIU. “Service levels and responsiveness have been high—and we appreciate the steps the Aramark Facilities Management team is taking to proactively ensure operational efficiency and transparency.”
Advanced Technologies for the Future
Aramark is also demonstrating future-ready capabilities at TAMIU by introducing innovative technologies. A digital “twin” of one campus mechanical space has been created, replicating the room and its physical assets. This virtual model allows the maintenance team, clients, and contractors to assess performance, plan repairs, and make updates more efficiently.
Components of Aramark’s AIWX™ intelligent workplace technology are also being piloted in this mechanical space. For example, equipment vibration sensors and refrigeration temperature monitors analyze performance and detect signs of potential maintenance needs before issues arise.
Expanded Partnership
In addition to managing maintenance, Aramark is a longstanding partner of TAMIU through Aramark Collegiate Hospitality, which provides dining services for the university’s 8,500 students, staff, and guests across the 300-acre campus.
As the partnership grows, the integration of advanced tools and processes continues to enhance operations, build trust, and improve the campus experience for all stakeholders.
