Finding Inspiration from Female Leaders

I've just celebrated 20 years in the commercial cleaning industry, during which I’ve written roughly 300 editorials. With each one, I’ve tried to choose topics that not only resonate with readers but also feel personal and relatable. I’ll admit, that isn’t always easy, and I’m often on the lookout for inspiration.

In March, however, inspiration came easily. As many of you may already know, March is National Women’s History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the many contributions women have made—and continue to make—to history and society.

For me, one of the most meaningful aspects of National Women’s History Month is the opportunity it gives us to reflect, not just on the achievements of women throughout history, but also on the lessons they leave behind. No matter our level within an organization, or where we are in our careers, there is always something to learn from the women who came before us.

Their accomplishments remind us of what’s possible. Many of them broke barriers, challenged expectations, and carved out paths where none previously existed. Their stories are filled with resilience, determination, and the kind of perseverance that often goes unseen but makes all the difference.

In many ways, the commercial cleaning industry reflects that same journey. For decades, it has been predominantly male. Yet, we now see more women stepping into leadership roles, lending their voices, and helping shape the future of contract cleaning. This progress is something worth celebrating.

At the same time, it’s important to recognize that the opportunities many female BSCs experience today didn’t appear overnight. They were built on the efforts of women who pushed forward with a goal to succeed, just like the four women featured in our cover story.

Stories like these remind us that progress is rarely linear, but it is always possible. And perhaps most importantly, they encourage us to continue building on the foundation they worked so hard to create.

Corinne Zudonyi has been in the commercial cleaning industry for over 20 years and is proud to serve as Editor-In-Chief of Contracting Profits (the official publication of BSCAI), Facility Cleaning Decisions, and Sanitary Maintenance (the North American media partner of Interclean Amsterdam) magazines, publications that serve the professional cleaning industry. Additionally, Corinne manages CleanLink.com, the leading digital resource for the commercial cleaning industry, and she uses her industry knowledge to steer educational topics for Clean Buildings at NFMT East.
Corinne is the sole U.S. representative to serve on the international Interclean Amsterdam Innovation Jury, where she weighs in on product trends impacting commercial cleaning on a global scale. She also works closely with Healthy Green Schools & Colleges to advance healthy and sustainable cleaning in educational facilities. As a member of the CLEAN Awards Jury, through the Building Service Contractors Association International, Corinne also helps recognize cleaning contractors and their companies for outstanding service to the industry.
Corinne can commonly be found moderating industry panel discussions, presenting education, and focusing on bringing awareness and affirmation for the wonderful work that people do to keep facilities clean and building occupants safe and healthy.

Follow Corinne on LinkedIn here.