Guy Mingo Shares Future Industry Insights

Although he experienced a lot of industry change in his long career, Mingo is optimistic about Marsden’s future. In fact, he believes that these days, there is far more certainty than uncertainty about the future of the industry. It has evolved in significant ways — due in large part to Building Service Contractors Association International (BSCAI) and other industry organizations helping to create more professionalism among members and leaders, matching the sophistication of customers. 

“I think professional organizations are doing a lot to help our industry and make it viable and exciting,” he says. “It’s inspiring to see people discover that they can have a career in this industry.” 

Mingo puts his money where his mouth is, supporting the cleaning industry and associations like BSCAI with investments of time, resources and funds, Cain says. 

“He’s willing to invest real dollars into not only the association, but in allowing people like me to take a very active role in BSCAI, which I’m very passionate about,” he says. “I love that.” 

And the industry continues to evolve in interesting ways, creating what Mingo predicts will be the new “table stakes” for BSCs. While relationships still matter in this business, customers — especially third-party management groups — are also seeking service validation. 

“Customers want you to be able to prove to them that the work got done, that they’re getting what they paid for,” Mingo says. 

This is where technology has taken hold and more building service contractors are utilizing software programs, equipment data, and monitoring tools to provide clients with proof of service. The evolution of these tools will surely impact how contractors service customers moving forward. 

Mingo is also keeping an eye on the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the cleaning realm. In this case, he believes customer demand is driving the evolution of robotics and autonomous machines, forcing cleaning contractors to look closer at pricing and staffing. 

Other trends he is watching include regulatory compliance and generational workforce dynamics. With Marsden operating in 47 different states, keeping up on complicated regulatory and workforce edicts requires careful attention as lawmakers and unions continuously make changes. And with four generations of employees in the workforce at the same time, leaders are learning awareness and agility. 

“I think it’s moved us to be even more of a servant leadership-type of an organization,” Mingo says. “Different generations have different priorities in terms of what’s important to them and how they view your company — everything from your philanthropic giving to how you help them advance not only in the organization but in their professional careers. They want to know what makes your company the right place to work because they have a lot of choices.” 

Despite these seismic shifts in the corporate landscape, Mingo takes comfort in knowing that there are aspects of the work that haven’t changed much. Cleaning is still cleaning, and at the end of the day, the work still relies on people to show up and deliver it. 

“People are the key to success, especially in our business,” he says.  

Lisa Ridgely is a freelance writer based in the Milwaukee area.