The Business of Cleaning

Wendy Dietzler, Senior Director of Events & Education for Trade Press Incorporated, emphasizes the importance of Building Service Contractors attending the Clean Buildings Conference on Tuesday, March 25th, and Wednesday, March 26th, in Baltimore, Maryland. The Clean Buildings Conference (CBC) and NFMT events unite building service contractors, in-house cleaning professionals, and facility managers, offering valuable networking and educational opportunities. Key topics include staffing challenges, recruitment, retention, and the need to support and celebrate workers. Additionally, industry experts will explore the growing impact of AI, automation, and technology, addressing both the opportunities and uncertainties they bring to the cleaning industry.

Bill Dunn spent decades in the wine and spirits business where he successfully recruited, hired, trained, and mentored future leaders. But his goal was to one day own his own company. Approaching his 50’s he took a gamble by pulling all his resources together and purchasing CNS Cleaning in 2021. CNS Cleaning now has over 1,000 monthly accounts and has tripled revenue since acquisition. Dunn emphasizes the importance of employee care, continuous improvement, and strategic marketing in growing a business.

Ed Nichols, President of The ISSA Show North America discusses why this show is the premier trade show for the commercial cleaning industry, attracting over 600 exhibitors from 23 countries and nearly 13,000 professionals annually. This event acts as an industry barometer, displaying the latest products, innovations, and educational opportunities, and consistently aims to exceed expectations for both attendees and exhibitors. Networking and in-person connections are a central focus, with curated experiences tailored to various segments within the industry. The educational program has been significantly expanded this year, offering over 170 sessions covering a wide range of relevant topics for extensive learning opportunities. First-time attendees are encouraged to prepare thoroughly by registering early, downloading the mobile app, and utilizing available resources to optimize their time and maximize return on investment.

Matt and Greg Stowe have been with Octoclean since 1989 when their parents founded the business. They spent early mornings and late nights mastering the trade. Today, they oversee more than 60 franchise owners delivering services across Southern California and Arizona. Matt and Greg currently reside in Riverside, California.

Daryl Hicks, an expert in infection prevention and control, discusses the importance of thorough cleaning and disinfection, especially during flu and COVID-19 seasons. He is nationally recognized as a subject matter expert in infection prevention and control as it relates to cleaning. He has written and published numerous articles in professional and healthcare related journals as part of his commitment to providing a cleaner, safer, and healthier indoor environment. Hicks is the owner/principal of Safe, Clean and Disinfected.  His enterprise specializes in B2B consulting, webinar presentations, seminars and facility consulting services related to cleaning and disinfection.

Jeff Carmon brings in millions of dollars in new business each year to Frantz Building Services. He also serves as a commercial cleaning industry consultant. He’s found that in order to achieve long lasting customers you have to develop customer loyalty. Jeff resides in Owensboro, Kentucky with his wife.

In 2002, Chris Mondragon immigrated to the United States from Mexico, seeking to earn money for his family and his college education. Recognizing the necessity of becoming a resident to access better opportunities, Chris undertook various jobs, including working as a chef, construction worker, car salesman, and ultimately, entering the cleaning industry. Despite facing numerous challenges, Chris has successfully built a cleaning company that now generates over $7 million in annual revenue.

Since 1971, Dave Thompson has been a part of the commercial cleaning industry. Over his 50+ year career, he has witnessed numerous changes and advancements. Starting as a frontline worker, he moved into sales and eventually found his calling as a professional educator, operating the Academy of Cleaning Excellence.

In 2016, Illissa Figueroa and Ana Chicas McNamara decided to start their own cleaning business despite only knowing each other for six months. Join us as we look at their journey in the cleaning industry, from humbling beginnings to industry success.

Jason Davis found himself trapped in the monotonous routine of his dream job in banking, enduring the daily grind of 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The toll of this predictable work schedule eventually convinced him that it wasn't the right path for him. One day, on impulse, he walked away from his banking career without a plan. Encouraged by his wife, he connected with the cleaners at her workplace, which sparked the idea of starting Forte Commercial Cleaning in Salt Lake City, Utah. Recently, Jason and Forte Commercial Cleaning gained national attention for their initiative in offering job opportunities to homeless individuals. Jason attributes the philosophy of "The Go-Giver" to his company's philosophy of inclusivity, providing employment opportunities to those in need. He takes pride in providing fresh starts for people and helping them to develop their skills to enhance their career paths. Since 2019, Forte Commercial Cleaning has held the cleaning contract for the Delta Center, home of the Utah Jazz. Every night, over 100 people gather to clean the entire arena within four to five hours. What sets Forte apart from competitors is their commitment to same-day payment, a promise they always fulfill. Jason believes that consistent attention to detail, even in seemingly small matters, fosters a loyal and dedicated workforce.