Setting Cleaning Managers up for Success

Mark the calendar now. The premier event for facility managers — the Clean Buildings Conference, curated by the team behind CleanLink and Facility Cleaning Decisions — returns to Baltimore on March 25-26, 2025. Held at the Baltimore Convention Center, this two-day conference is certain to be a hub of forward-looking education, networking, and cutting-edge product workshops. It offers a valuable opportunity for facility cleaning managers and operators to update strategies, learn about new innovations and tackle the demands of running maintenance operations and staff in 2025. 

As the cleaning landscape continues to transform, staying informed and adapting to new trends is as crucial as ever. The Clean Buildings Conference provides the perfect platform for professional development. Over 25 educational sessions, led by industry experts, will cover a wide range of topics, from innovative cleaning techniques and technologies to business management best practices and regulatory updates. Whether it's challenges such as optimizing cleaning operations, improving efficiency, or tackling emerging trends, the conference has valuable insights to offer. 

Building strong connections with other managers who are in similar situations is paramount for success. That’s why Clean Buildings Conference fosters multiple networking opportunities through dedicated sessions, exhibitor interactions, and social events. Engage with fellow facility cleaning supervisors, share experiences, discuss best practices, and build a network that extends beyond a local market. This collaborative environment can spark new ideas, lead to valuable partnerships, and provide access to a wealth of industry knowledge. 

Clean Building Conference attendees can also learn from their peers by joining the Women in Cleaning panel discussion first thing on March 26, and the subsequent reception later that same day. From overcoming hurdles and finding inspiration to cultivating leadership skills, women from various corners of the industry will share personal insights into developing authentic leadership, communications strategies, establishing a trusted network, mentoring the next generation, and more. All are welcome; come along for coffee and meaningful interaction.  

Like any conference worth its weight in gold, it’s not complete without a robust expo hall. With a wide array of industry-leading exhibitors showcasing the latest cleaning solutions, equipment, and technologies, attendees can explore innovative products first-hand. From sustainable cleaning solutions to high-performance equipment, managers will discover advancements that can optimize cleaning operations, improve efficiency, and enhance the environment for building occupants. 

A Collaborative Experience 

This year, Clean Buildings Conference will once again co-locate with the National Facilities Management & Technology (NFMT) Conference and Expo. In addition to benefiting from all that Clean Buildings Conference has to offer, facility cleaning managers will experience unique value to accessing the NFMT event, too.  

NFMT attracts over 3,000 facilities professionals, including building owners, and maintenance/operations managers. This unique co-location offers managers a chance to network with colleagues and “double dip” their expertise. It's a valuable opportunity to build relationships and access new professional opportunities. 

"Clean Buildings Conference 2024 was a resounding success, bringing together hundreds of dedicated cleaning professionals for two days of immersive education, networking, and exploration of the latest industry innovations," says Jill McDermott, CEO and general manager of Trade Press Media Group, producer of Clean Buildings Conference and parent company of Facility Cleaning Decisions. "The event's integration with NFMT further enriched the experience, offering attendees unparalleled opportunities for industry insights and product sourcing." 

The Clean Buildings Conference theme, "Expanding Connections for Business Solutions," underscores the event's focus on future-proofing operations, and the chance to exchange ideas with NFMT attendees is an added bonus. Sessions will delve into advanced cleaning technologies, cutting-edge sustainability practices, and forward-thinking strategies. Registrants that select the Pro Level registration will also be able to attend NFMT sessions and thus earn the chance to gain insights into trends that will shape the industry in the future. Attendees will discover how to implement what's been learned to create a more efficient, sustainable, and resilient cleaning operation that meets the needs of occupants and frontline workers alike. 

Investing in professional development and business growth is essential. The Clean Buildings Conference offers a dynamic platform to do both. Attendees can access invaluable industry knowledge, forge valuable connections, and discover innovative solutions that can take companies to the next level. Secure a spot today and join a community of cleaning professionals dedicated to building a cleaner and brighter future. 

Industry Trends and Innovation 

“We are proud to emphasize our commitment to providing the latest education and product information for the cleaning industry,” says Wendy Dietzler, senior director of events at Trade Press Media Group. “With more than 25 expert-led education sessions, up to 75 exhibitors, and cutting-edge cleaning products on display, Clean Buildings Conference is not just a conference, it's a dynamic platform for facility cleaning managers to stay at the forefront of industry trends.” 

The 2025 Clean Buildings Conference is carefully curated to equip attendees with the latest insights, trends, and best practices in the commercial cleaning industry. Through a series of engaging presentations, workshops, and panel discussions, industry experts will delve into critical topics such as: 

Sustainability and Green Cleaning: Explore eco-friendly cleaning solutions, energy-efficient technologies, and sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact. 

Emerging Technologies: Discover the latest innovations in cleaning equipment, robotics, and digital solutions that can streamline operations and improve efficiency. 

Workforce Development and Training: Learn strategies for attracting and retaining top talent, developing effective training programs, and fostering a culture of continuous learning. 

Cleaning for Health and Wellness: Gain insights into the latest protocols for preventing the spread of infectious diseases and creating healthier indoor environments. 

The Future of Cleaning: Explore emerging trends and technologies that will shape the future of the industry, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, Internet of Things, and advanced cleaning chemicals. 

Making Connections 

The Clean Buildings Conference isn't all work and no play. The event features social gatherings, offering opportunities to unwind, connect with colleagues, and build lasting relationships in a relaxed setting. Attendees can enjoy an opening night reception and networking opportunities throughout the conference, allowing for the forging of valuable connections that can benefit day-to-day operations long after the event ends. 

Starting Tuesday evening, help cap off a successful first day at a special networking party featuring appetizers, drinks and a chance to mingle with fellow attendees, speakers and exhibitors, along with NFMT Conference & Expo attendees.  

During the show, keep an eye out for the Expo Hall Learning Labs. Taking place in the Expo Product Zone, these Learning Labs are the best way to view and evaluate services and solutions addressing common cleaning challenges. These 20-minute sessions are open to all attendees and take place during Expo Hall hours each day of the conference. 

As the cleaning industry continues to evolve, staying ahead of the curve is essential. The Clean Buildings Conference offers a platform to discuss and address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Attending this event could yield valuable insights into how to prepare for future pandemics, adapt to ever-changing regulations, and implement sustainable practices — which data suggests is a plus with occupants and business owners. 

Jackson Silvanik is the managing editor of Facility Cleaning Decisions, Contracting Profits, and Sanitary Maintenance magazines, as well as CleanLink.com.