173 students from six European universities collaborate on real-life FM challenges in Heerlen.
In early October 2025, 173 students from four countries and six universities worked side by side for a week during the EuroFM International Autumn School FM, hosted by Zuyd University of Applied Sciences in Heerlen, the Netherlands. The program teaches Facility Management students how to collaborate across borders while gaining insight into how cultural differences influence their field. Working together and competing for the win.
The challenges for this edition? Assisting the Municipality of Heerlen in resolving contractual issues related to a DBMO agreement (Design, Build, Maintain & Operate) and advising the wellness resort Thermae 2000 in Valkenburg on how to enhance the visitor experience through a guest journey approach.
Excitement and Fun
From Monday 6 to Friday 10 October, mixed student teams from Zuyd, FH Kufstein (Austria), DHBW Stuttgart (Germany), UCLL and Helb Brussels (Belgium), and The Hague University of Applied Sciences engaged in a thrilling competition. Scores were tracked daily on a leaderboard, adding extra excitement to the week. Teams had to outdo each other by delivering strong solutions for the clients. The winning team walked away with a cheque sponsored by EuroFM for €2,000, covering travel and accommodation costs for a visit to the EuroFM conference in Trondheim.
