That was the experience shared by Ricardo L. Catala, Occupational Regional Supervisor for the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, following a recent CMI Train-the-Trainer session led by ISSA’s Cleaning Management Institute.

“The training was everything I expected and more… a memorable masterclass that highlighted the crucial role custodial professionals play.”

Elevating the Profession

At its core, CMI training is designed to do more than teach technical skills—it reframes how cleaning professionals see their role.

For Catala and his team, the experience reinforced a powerful truth:

“Custodial maintenance is critical to health, safety, and operational success… we save lives.”

This mindset shift—from routine task to essential profession—is a defining element of the CMI approach.

Expert-Led, Real-World Training

The session was led by CMI Master Trainer Mark Warner, whose decades of industry experience shaped a highly engaging and impactful learning environment.

“Mark Warner truly delivered a standout educational session… a seasoned industry expert who brings over 30 years of experience.”

Drawing from a background that includes infection control expertise and work with organizations such as FEMA and the U.S. Military, Warner’s training goes beyond theory—bringing real-world application directly to participants.

Engagement That Drives Results

Unlike traditional training programs, CMI’s Train-the-Trainer model emphasizes:

• Interactive, hands-on learning
• Adult learning principles
• Effective communication and presentation techniques
• Real-world application in facility environments

“It is designed to be highly engaging, focusing not just on technical skills but on building a professional, customer-service-focused mindset.”

The result? Teams that are not only better trained—but more confident, aligned, and motivated.

Creating Career Pathways

One of the most impactful takeaways for attendees was the clear path for career growth within the industry.

CMI training highlights opportunities for custodial professionals to advance into roles such as:

• Supervisors and team leaders
• Infection control specialists
• CIMS Certified Experts

“The program transforms custodial work from a routine task into a professional career… offering a clear path to advancement.”

Lasting Impact Beyond the Classroom

For Catala, the value of the training was immediately evident—not just in his own experience, but in the response from his instructors.

“My instructors were impressed and excited to take what they learned back to their facilities.”

This ripple effect—where one training influences entire teams and organizations—is what makes CMI programs so powerful.

A Partnership Moving Forward

The training also reinforced something equally important: the strength of partnership.

“Thank you for giving us the best and delivering the best training experience any of us have had in a long time. We look forward to continuing this relationship.”

Experience the CMI Difference

CMI training continues to set the standard for professional education in the cleaning industry—equipping teams with the skills, mindset, and leadership capabilities needed to elevate performance and impact.

Because when cleaning is done right, it doesn’t just maintain spaces—it protects people.

Ready to elevate your team?
Explore CMI training programs   and bring industry-leading education to your organization.