ISSA Today Archives • January-February 2024 • President’s Message

In my business at Midlab, we are constantly seeking to improve, and I am bringing that same mental attitude with me in my role as your new ISSA president of our board of directors.

But first, let me introduce myself and give you a glimpse into my world. I am Matt Schenk. Like many of you, I am a family man and an outdoor and sports enthusiast. I have over 40 years of experience in the cleaning industry, over 30 of which have been with Midlab.

Midlab is a Tennessee-based company specializing in the manufacturing of cleaning products. Because of the company’s expertise in the cleaning industry, my new assignment as president of ISSA is a fitting match that promises positive outcomes.

I am committed to the cleaning industry and this association. As this is my second term on the board, I believe my experience will undoubtedly play a pivotal role at ISSA.

ISSA membership provides unparalleled opportunities to improve your operations, boost your profits, and make valuable connections. ISSA plays three key roles: It is a source for industry training and education, an advocate for the industry at the governmental level, and a unifying force for the many small businesses within the cleaning industry. The value of the organization, along with its professional and dedicated staff, is beyond compare.

And then there is the heart of the industry: its people. The cleaning industry’s tight-knit community and passion is what drives its members. This sentiment reflects the industry’s resilience and determination to overcome challenges, such as the recent pandemic, and emphasizes the importance of cleanliness in our daily lives.

I saw this when I looked around at ISSA Show North America 2023. Wow! What an event! There were over 13,000 attendees this year, a 20% increase from 2022’s show. Informa’s reach has certainly extended to end users, as we saw more distributors, building service contractors (BSCs), and facility managers than ever before. I do believe we will have even more in 2024.

The new home for the show at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas was exciting, with the conference rooms, dining areas, and hotel centrally located, making for a more accessible experience. Another fantastic highlight of the show was that the goal of US$100,000 was reached for ISSA Charities.

All the high energy and engaging conversations were truly inspiring. The excitement and positivity surrounding the event suggest a bright future for the industry, with ISSA playing a vital role in addressing its challenges and opportunities.

As president, I want to help guide ISSA into the future. I am already working on a strategic plan that will shape the association’s direction for the next decade. I also hope that my focus and passion for customer delight and innovation will be infectious to the ISSA community.

Combined with ISSA’s mission, I believe I can provide valuable insight into the cleaning industry. I’m excited to be a part of the energy and dynamic future of the cleaning industry and its dedicated professionals. I hope to encourage others to do the same and join us at ISSA.

Yes, I am addressing those who still need to join our ranks. Please help me spread the word. Joining ISSA is a wise choice. The numerous benefits it offers to companies in the cleaning industry and its affordability are unmatched. It is an essential platform for connectivity, training, regulatory information, and industry advocacy.

This year is going to be a great year for us, maybe the best year. I can’t wait to get started as your president!

Matt Schenk is the president of ISSA. With over 40 years of industry experience, he is the CEO and president at Midlab, a manufacturer of quality cleaning products. He can be reached at matt.schenk@midlab.com.