Innovation, technology, and the future of environmental services aren’t just buzzwords — they’re the bedrock of what I’m building in this industry.

As ISSA’s president and CEO of Servicon, I believe success hinges on visionary thinking and strong collaboration. On a recent episode of Straight Talk! with ISSA Media Director Jeff Cross, I shared my journey in reshaping environmental services (EVS) through a combination of cutting-edge technology, front-line team empowerment, and purpose-driven partnerships.

Solving problems, not just buying gadgets

When I began in this field, “innovation” often meant simply buying the next shiny piece of equipment. Over time, though, I realized real innovation isn’t about tools—it’s about solving problems. The first question I always ask is: What problem are we trying to fix, and is technology the best way to do it?

This mindset has helped my company, Servicon, move beyond vendor catalogs and into true problem-solving mode. Sometimes that means hybrid solutions; other times it means co-creating with unexpected partners. For example, a conversation with a client about aerospace clean rooms turned into a collaboration with SpaceBot, creating not only a fix for their issue but new opportunities for us to push the boundaries of what cleaning can achieve.

Innovation thrives when dialogue drives it. That’s why ISSA and its trade shows play such a critical role. They’re not just about displaying the latest gadgets; they’re a hub for manufacturers, distributors, service providers, and clients to talk openly, test ideas, and shape what’s truly needed in the marketplace.

Technology that protects workers and patients

Healthcare facilities highlight the stakes of innovation. High patient turnover, budget constraints, and labor shortages create daily challenges. My focus is not on using technology to replace people, but to protect them, giving them the tools to work smarter, stay safer, and take pride in their roles.

Sensor technology is a prime example. Devices today can monitor air quality, detect occupancy, and even track cough patterns. These insights allow cleaning teams to adapt in real time, targeting areas where viral loads may spike or air circulation dips.

Instead of applying the same approach everywhere, we can be precise, data-driven, and effective.

The principle is simple: Technology should elevate the human experience. It should reduce the physical strain of work, enhance safety, and enable front-line teams to contribute in more meaningful ways.

My leadership philosophy: Listen, collaborate, innovate

At the core of my leadership style is a three-part mantra: Listen actively, collaborate meaningfully, and innovate with purpose. Innovation cannot be forced from the top down; it flourishes when leaders truly hear the challenges faced by front-line workers and clients, then connect the right partners to address them.

With ISSA leading industry progress, such as with the new ISSA Healthcare initiative (learn more at issa.com/healthcare), I believe the future of EVS is not just bold but sustainable. It’s a future where partnerships spark creativity, where technology empowers instead of replaces, and where people remain at the center of progress.

Environmental services is entering a new era, one defined not by gadgets but by vision. And together, through listening, collaborating, and innovating, we can redefine what clean means for the next generation.

Laurie Sewell is the president of ISSA. With over 30 years of industry experience, she is CEO and president of Servicon Systems Inc., a leading provider of environmentally sustainable cleaning and maintenance services.

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