Olon Hyde is the director of operations at Office Pride Commercial Cleaning Services in Tampa, Florida, where he has worked for over seven years. Here, he talks about his start in the BSC industry, what he sees as the future of the industry, and what he finds most valuable from his BSCAI membership.

1. How did you get your start in the BSC industry?
   
   My start was much like many others, I imagine. I wasn't looking for a job in the BSC industry; I just needed a job at the time, and ended up working for someone I knew who owned a cleaning company. The values of that company kept me around, and over time I saw how great a business opportunity the BSC industry is.
    
2. What changes or trends do you suggest professionals in this space keep an eye on in the year ahead? 
   
   Technology is really beginning to revolutionize the BSC industry. It seems there has been a lot of new software vendors entering our space, and I expect that this will really start to challenge some of the software companies that have worked in the BSC segment for some years now.
   
   Additionally, the Internet of things is getting a lot of discussion time. Smart bathrooms, GPS tracked equipment, battery-powered backpack vacuums and other innovations are making their debut each year. Many of these innovations are currently cost-prohibitive to BSCs, but Ohms Law will begin to take effect as we approach the end of 2017 and enter into 2018; prices on these things will begin to decline, making them more affordable.  
    
3. What do you value most about your BSCAI membership? 
   
   Through the conferences each year, I stay up-to-date on changes affecting our industry. These include governmental factors as well as equipment, chemicals, techniques or technology that allows us to continually improve the quality of our services, while also becoming more efficient and profitable.