by Julie Hogan | Mar 25, 2020 | COVID-19, News
Virus Death Toll on the Rise On March 24th, 2020, the United States saw its deadliest day thus far during the COVID-19 pandemic with over 163 deaths. As of Wednesday morning, at least 728 people in the U.S. have died of the coronavirus as the country’s confirmed...by Julie Hogan | Mar 2, 2020 | COVID-19, News
A SPOON FULL OF VIRUS Cold and Flu Viruses have the potential of being quite serious, in fact, they can be fatal. The CDC estimates that so far this season there have been at least 32 million flu illnesses resulting in 18,000 deaths. Influenza and other viruses, like...CEO
Troy currently presides over all aspects of the company and has utilized his “ground-up” knowledge and expertise to lead the continued growth and development of the company. Through his leadership and perseverance, Troy continues to emphasize the company-wide focus on customer service and operational excellence. Troy leads the senior management team as CCS continues to accomplish strategic and long-term objectives.
Prior to the start of his career, Troy earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with majors in Finance and Marketing from the University of Colorado.
Brooke Delgado is the Corporate Controller for CCS. Brooke is responsible for managing all facets of the accounting operations, monitoring and implementation of policies and procedures, as well as reporting analyzed financial information to the executive management team.
Prior to joining CCS, Brooke served 12 years in progressive accounting and finance roles in both the paint and coatings industry and the manufacturing industry.
Brooke earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Degree in Finance at the University of Missouri-Columbia. She earned a Master of Science in Accounting at the University of Colorado-Denver.
Daniel Lowery is the Director of Corporate Services for CCS. In 2010, Daniel joined CCS as the Environmental Services (EVS) Director. He has since advanced to Director of Corporate Services where he works closely with executive staff to achieve and maintain standards of excellence set forth by CCS. He leads the way in development of business practices, policies, and procedures.
Prior to the start of his career, Daniel earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics with a minor in Business Administration from the University of Colorado. Daniel is also a licensed Colorado Real Estate Broker, LEED Green Associate and ISSA Certification Expert (I.C.E).
Don Buffoni is the Manager of Procurement and Sustainability for CCS. Don began his career with CCS with a dual role in Business Development and Supply Management. Currently, Don manages and directs product distribution, vendor contract negotiations, manufacturer relationships, and sustainability reporting and compliance.
Prior to his start at CCS in 2005, Don was a manufacturing representative for a cleaning solution company and served nine years in the United States Army as a logistics supply officer.
Don earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design from North Carolina State University. He is also LEED AP O+M.
Matt Urquhart is the Director of Engineering Operations for CCS Engineering. Matt is primarily responsible for engineering operations, including service execution, personnel management, customer service, and safety.
Matt spent the past 33 years of his career in various facility operational and management positions providing facilities engineering, HVAC mechanical service to the commercial real estate industry. During this time he also served as an owner and operator of his own mechanical service company.
Prior to his career, Matt earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Diesel technology from Denver Automotive and Diesel college.
Janet Kiefer is the CFO for CCS. Janet is responsible for managing all finance, accounting, treasury and M&A operations.
Prior to joining CCS in 2013, Janet served in numerous accounting roles in both public traded and privately held companies working primarily in the manufacturing industries. She also spent four years in the United States Navy as a financial technician where she earned a Navy Marine Corp Achievement Medal for her perseverance and dedication to her work.
Janet earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting at Metropolitan State University of Denver.
Titus Gardner is the Vice President for CCS, Arizona operations. Titus oversees all aspects of the CCS Arizona office, including: day and night operations, sales and marketing efforts, and customer service and satisfaction. In addition, he provides support and training in the areas of account management and customer service.
Together with joining CCS in 2005, Titus has over 15 years of experience within the janitorial industry. Titus utilizes his valuable industry knowledge and strong commitment to customer service to lead the Arizona team and support the development and growth of the CCS management team.
Jesus Guerrero is the Vice President for CCS, Colorado operations. Jesus is primarily responsible for the management and supervision of all daytime and nighttime operations including: strategic and operational leadership, developing and maintaining customer relations, and assists with the training and development of account managers.
Prior to the start of his career with CCS in 2002, Jesus worked in the IT industry where he started in customer service and quickly advanced to management.
Mike Milano is the General Manager of Carpet, Flooring, and Restoration Services for CCS. Mike is responsible for managing and directing all carpet and flooring care operations.
Mike has been involved in carpet cleaning and restoration services for over 27 years. Prior to joining CCS in 2007, Mike spent the first part of his career working for a local carpet and restoration company in Denver as a carpet cleaning technician. He quickly elevated to manage both the residential and commercial divisions.
Mike has earned numerous certifications in carpet cleaning and water damage restoration/deodorization, including: the distinction of a Master Carpet Certified Technician and a Senior Carpet Inspector.
Cameron Hall is the Regional Vice President for CCS. In her current role, Cameron is responsible for working directly with CCS Account Managers, Field Managers and oversees the administrative support team in Southern California.
Prior to Cameron’s start with CCS in 2013, her work experience includes seven years in the commercial real estate industry where she oversaw approximately 750,000 square feet of commercial and industrial properties.
Cameron earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Chapman University in 2006. She later followed with her Juris Doctor degree from Western State College of Law in 2011 where she became a California Bar Member in November 2011.
Meaghan O’Brien is the Vice President of Business Development for CCS. Meaghan serves as the company leader of all Business Development Managers with an emphasis on market growth, sales process development and training initiatives. Meaghan works closely with prospective customers to develop value added programs to best meet their specific goals and objectives.
In 2013, Meaghan joined CCS as an Account Manager in San Diego and advanced to Business Development Manager in 2014. In 2016, she took on the additional role as Business Development Sales Trainer. Prior to joining CCS, Meaghan enjoyed over 16 years with a successful career in business development and entrepreneurship.
Meaghan earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Salisbury University.
Jaime Jacobo is the General Manager for CCS, Fresno operations. Jaime is primarily responsible for the management and supervision of all daytime and nighttime operations including: strategic and operational leadership, developing and maintaining customer relations, quality assurance, and the training and developing of account managers.
Prior to joining CCS 9 year ago, Jaime acquired his leadership skills as a Janitorial Supervisor.
Jaime is an Associate Member of Building Owners and Manager Association, a Friend of IREM and an Associate Member of International Facility Managers Association.
Tony Ramirez is the General Manager for CCS, Los Angeles operations. Tony is primarily responsible for the management and supervision of all daytime and nighttime operations including strategic and operational leadership, developing and maintaining customer relations, quality assurance, and the training and development of account managers.
Tony has dedicated his entire 26-year career serving in operational and management positions within the commercial janitorial industry. Prior to joining CCS, Tony served as a Senior Operations Manager for a commercial janitorial provider in the Los Angeles market.
Erik Cokrlic is the General Manager for CCS, San Diego operations. Erik is primarily responsible for the management and supervision of all daytime and nighttime operations including strategic and operational leadership, developing and maintaining customer relations, quality assurance and the training and development of account managers.
Erik has dedicated his entire career to business development and operational management in various industries. Prior to joining CCS, Erik acquired a certification in floorcare and served as a Regional Director for a commercial janitorial provider in the San Diego market.
Troy Coker is the CEO of CCS. Troy founded the company in 1988 and grew CCS into the success it is today. CCS has become recognized as the premier provider of quality facility services throughout the Southwest region of the United States.
Troy currently presides over all aspects of the company and has utilized his “ground-up” knowledge and expertise to lead the continued growth and development of the company. Through his leadership and perseverance, Troy continues to emphasize the company-wide focus on customer service and operational excellence. Troy leads the senior management team as CCS continues to accomplish strategic and long-term objectives.
Prior to the start of his career, Troy earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with majors in Finance and Marketing from the University of Colorado.
Todd VanOpdorp is the COO for CCS. Since joining CCS in 2004, Todd has become instrumental in the growth and development of the business. Todd is involved with all aspects of the business throughout the company. His primary focus is on operations and business development.
Todd spent the past 31 years of his career in various management and leadership positions providing janitorial and private security services to the commercial real estate industry.
Prior to his career, Todd earned his Bachelor of Science Degree from Western Illinois University.
Dana Holladay is the Senior VP for CCS. Dana is primarily responsible for the strategic and operational leadership throughout the Southern California branch office.
Prior to joining CCS in 1998, Dana provided sales and marketing support to a privately-held, start-up company. In this position, she assisted with the implementation of the company branding and marketing strategies that contributed to the company’s successful launch and ultimate sale.
Dana is an active member in numerous commercial real estate industry associations throughout Southern California. Dana attended California State University San Marcos.
Steve Larson is the Executive Vice President for CCS and CCS Engineering. Steve is primarily responsible for the management of all operations, including strategic and operational leadership, developing and maintaining customer relations.
Steve spent the past 27 years of his career in various management and leadership positions providing janitorial, facilities engineering, parking, and security services to the commercial real estate industry. During this time he also served as a Facilities Manager and HVAC Design-Build Engineer.
Prior to his career, Steve earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering with Honors from University of Minnesota, Institute of Technology.
For businesses and consumers, one way to measure our “mark” is through the carbon footprint lens. As your commercial cleaning partner, a core goal is to find both practical and innovative ways to keep your (and our) footprint small. Of course, tracking this can get complicated very quickly. There’s direct and indirect impact. Different gases to consider. Understanding and educating our team and clients about the drivers that increase and decrease carbon footprints is a core part of our responsibility.
One of the major drivers to the carbon footprint is energy use.
The average global footprint is around 6 tons. U.S. averages over 25 tons CO2e/cap. A carbon footprint is a combination of multiples gasses.
(CO2) Carbon Dioxide -man-made “greenhouse” gas
(CH4) Methane -agriculture and landfill gas (25x more potent per kilogram than CO2)
(N2O) Nitrous Oxide -industrial processes and farming, and refrigerant gases (several times more potent than CO2)
To avoid confusion, a carbon footprint is expressed as Carbon Dioxide equivalent (CO2e). This represents the total climate change impact of all the greenhouse gases caused by an item or activity rolled into one and expressed in terms of amount of carbon dioxide that would have the same impact. 1
The issue of direct and indirect impact also comes into play. Take a child’s plastic toy, for example. There are direct emissions resulting from the manufacturing process, the transportation of the toy to the store, your trip to purchase it (or the delivery trucks trip from warehouse to your home if you order online.) There’s also a mix of indirect emissions to factor, including the extraction and processing of the oil used to make the plastic and packaging.1 Add to that the toy’s other parts and processes, labor and transportation. The carbon footprint of a something as basic as a toy car or doll is not easy to quantify.
Based and living in the West, CCS is especially sensitive to water use and conservation efforts.
We start with the basics—the equipment we use day and night. Microfiber mops use 20 times less water than regular mops6, making them a natural fit for our team. We also love the added advantage that micro fiber-based mops and dusters are able to get into tiny nooks and crevices where traditional cotton cloth and mop fibers cannot. The nylon component of the fiber produces a static charge that attracts dirt, pulling it in and trapping it until the cloth or pad is washed.7
Small moves can add up to big results, especially in the waste management arena. We know this because of our work with our customers—and moves we’ve made in our own CCS offices (each branch is a full-fledged recycling company.)
Every member of our cleaning team sports microfiber-based uniforms, which last five times longer than standard cotton clothing. That gives us an 80% reduction on new clothing demands.
Our use of improved green cleaning products has saved 70%+ on usage. While the cost of these products may be higher, the usage levels are lower—so the net/net is a better for the bottom-line and the planet.
Without a doubt, air quality inside your buildings and facilities matters—a lot. Air temperature is just one factor, and one that’s often the easiest to master. Our primary focus is on air quality in terms of dust and particles (from pollen to mites) as this can have a direct short and long term impact on the health and productivity of your team—and ours.
A big factor in achieving and maintaining high air quality comes down to filters on the equipment used in the workplace. For CCS, that means using the highest quality green label vacuum cleaners that meet or exceed Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) requirements. After testing for compatibility with the qualifications set by the CRI, sweepers are divided into one of three categories: bronze, silver and gold. To be categorized as a gold level vacuum, the machine must get rid of greater than, or equal to, 55 percent of the soil used during the test. For dust containment levels, emissions must hold particles less than or equal to 35 micrograms for every cubic meter of air.2 We invest in this equipment and train our CCS team to use it, maintain it and keep filters clean. That’s just one way we’re adding to your air quality.
Green cleaning has many stripes, some stringent, some vague. Within the commercial cleaning services industry, the Cleaning Industry Management Standards (CIMS) is the gold standard; the evaluation is both independent and thorough, with a 360-degree view of an organization’s work, not just the type of green products used. The findings provide a team with a benchmark for successful delivery of consistent, quality services designed to exceed customer needs and expectations. CIMS doesn’t set out the requirements; instead it assesses how robust a company’s approach is.
The Green Building (GB) component of the CIMS accreditation is optional—but not to CCS. We believe strongly that a focus on sustainable, environmentally aware practices are a core part of successful cleaning. The requirements of the GB module evaluate CCS’ framework to ensure use of environmentally preferable cleaning practices in addition to the management best practices identified in the five core CIMS sections. CCS is one of the select few cleaning provider worldwide that currently holds the CIMS-GB with Honors designation—the highest possible.
Visit Cleaning Industry Management Standard to learn more.
CIMS is the first consensus-based management standard that outlines the primary characteristics of a successful, quality cleaning organization.
Think of it as a way to differentiate your organization from the competition, demonstrate your commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, improve your overall operations, and save money.
CIMS is more than just a way for cleaning organizations to set themselves and their green cleaning operations apart in the marketplace. Individuals who wish to assist their customers in preparing for CIMS certification can become ISSA Certification Experts (I.C.E.), while facility managers and others responsible for selecting a cleaning service provider can gain an increased level of confidence in their contractor by using CIMS and CIMS-Green Building (CIMS-GB) as a powerful pre-qualification tool. CIMS and CIMS-GB certification demonstrates an organization is prepared to deliver quality, customer-focused services and ensures an organization is capable of delivering a comprehensive green cleaning program based on LEED: EB O&M green-cleaning criteria.
https://www.issa.com/certification-standards/cleaning-industry-management-standard-cims#.WcQBPYxSyUk
saveves@commercialcleaningsystems.com
Sergio Aceves is the General Manger of the Central Valley, California branch office for Commercial Cleaning Systems. Sergio is responsible for the management and supervision of all daytime and nighttime operations including: strategic and operational leadership, developing and maintaining customer relations, quality control, and the training and developing of employees.
Prior to joining CCS in 2014, Sergio was a Manager for a San Diego based janitorial company, overseeing more than 200 financial institutions and over 120 employees.
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MSEC serves the human resource and employment law needs of the business community, helping employers manage all aspects of the employment relationship.
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is a certification and standard-setting non-profit organization for the inspection, cleaning,[1] and restoration industries.[2] It is headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, United States, and has offices in the United Kingdom and Australia. The organization formulates health and safety related industry standards for built environment. As an American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-accredited standard-development organization (SDO), the IICRC works with international trade associations such as the International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA) and the Restoration Industry Association(RIA)[3] to develop consensus-based standards.
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is a professional association to guide and develop facility management professionals by providing services, products, resources and opportunities. IFMA headquarters is located in Houston, Texas.
IFMA certifies facility managers, conducts research, provides educational programs, recognizes facility management degree and certificate programs and produces World Workplace, a facility management-related conference and exposition. The official publication of IFMA, Facility Management Journal (FMJ),[1] is a bimonthly publication written for facility professionals concerned with developing and maintaining productive workplaces.
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is an international community of real estate managers dedicated to ethical business practices, maximizing the value of investment real estate, and promoting superior management through education and information sharing. An affiliate of the National Association of Realtors, Institute of Real Estate Management is the home for all industry professionals connected to real estate management and the only organization serving both the multifamily and commercial sectors.
Institute of Real Estate Management believes that good management matters, and that well-managed properties pay dividends in terms of value and in the quality of life for residents, tenants, and customers. Institute of Real Estate Management believes in professional ethics, the power of knowledge, and the importance of sharing it.
Institute of Real Estate Management offers a variety of membership types for professionals of every experience level, from on-site managers to high-level executives. Institute of Real Estate Management credentials, earned by meeting high standards of education, experience, and ethical business practices include: Certified Property Manager (CPM), Accredited Residential Manager (ARM) Accredited Commercial Manager (ACoM), or Accredited Management Organization (AMO).
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The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International is a federation of 91 BOMA U.S. associations and 18 international affiliates. Founded in 1907, BOMA represents the owners and managers of all commercial property types including nearly 10.5 billion square feet of U.S. office space that supports 1.7 million jobs and contributes $234.9 billion to the U.S. GDP. Its mission is to advance a vibrant commercial real estate industry through advocacy, influence and knowledge.
BOMA International is a primary source of information on building management and operations, development, leasing, building operating costs, energy consumption patterns, local and national building codes, legislation, occupancy statistics, technological developments and other industry trends.
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A green building certification program that recognizes best-in-class building strategies and practices.
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(formerly known as the International Sanitary Supply Association) is an international association of more than 6,000 companies in the professional cleaning industry. ISSA’s member organizations include distributors, manufacturers, manufacturer representatives, building service contractors, in-house cleaning professionals, and associated service firms.
ISSA was founded in the United States in 1923 as the National Sanitary Supply Association. As its membership grew internationally, the association changed its name to the International Sanitary Supply Association in 1966. Then, in 2005, the association embraced cleaning service providers, prompting the association to change its name and tagline simply to ISSA – The Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association.
ISSA is headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois, USA, with regional offices in Amsterdam, Netherlands; Leicester, United Kingdom; Monterrey, Mexico; and Shanghai, China. ISSA regularly works with more than 85 associations, alliances, advocacy groups, and government agencies around the world to promote the value of commercial and institutional cleaning.
In conjunction with its trade show partner Amsterdam RAI, ISSA hosts the industry’s largest cleaning shows under the brand name ISSA/INTERCLEAN.
ISSA also helps increase industry professionalism and member success by offering business tools, educational products, industry standards, publications, and legislative and regulatory services that specifically focus on the professional cleaning industry.