Owners

Ted Pauling

EC Miami County/Shiloh

In 1982, Ted accepted a part-time job with Environment Control in Dayton, Ohio-first as a nightly cleaner and then a supervisor. A recent college graduate, Ted was a physical education teacher and coach at a local high school. Environment Control was his "other" job to earn supplemental family income.

During his first year with EC, Ted saw the unlimited opportunity Environment Control provides its associates-the national and local bonus programs and the growth potential. Before long, he gained the experience and confidence to run his own EC company.

Ted currently owns two Environment Control companies in Ohio-Miami County and Shiloh, which serve the greater Dayton, Miami County, and Shiloh areas. In addition, he is in partnership in other EC companies with long-time friend and associate, Gary Davis, who, like Ted, is owner of EC franchises in Ohio and Kentucky.

As one of EC's largest companies, with a consistent record for company growth and performance, Ted attributes much of his success to the high standard EC has set for its owners-not by pressuring them, but through up-to-date seminars, great support systems, consistent interaction, and just good encouragement. He says, "It's Environment Control's concern for my personal and professional wellbeing that sets them apart." Of equal importance, he credits a well-trained, dedicated, and reliable local team of employees and support staff.

Ted emphasizes that EC is the best thing that has happened to him professionally. It has provided financial freedom and the flexibility to set his own schedule. This has been of particular importance, because he has always been able to participate in his children's activities as they've grown up. Today, even though the children are adults, they still take yearly family vacations together.

Ted summed it up this way: "What I would tell anyone looking for a career characterized by unlimited financial opportunity, a family-friendly environment, and continual encouragement in their spiritual and personal lives is, EC is for you!"

John Lamb

EC Wisconsin

As Owner of one of EC's largest franchises, John has been consistently recognized throughout his career. At EC's 1998 and 2001 National Leadership Conference, John received the company's highest honor, the EC Foundation Award, for pioneering company growth and development to a new record high, and at the same time maintaining an outstanding track record for customer relations.

John's career began in April 1978 with a one-year commitment to the position of General Manager. As John would tell you, "With no major credit card and never having flown before, I reluctantly winged my way to California for basic training, still trying to decide if I should work at this 'cleaning business' or not!" One year passed, then two, then five, then seven. Finally John realized that this "job" he had committed to had truly become his career. Today, John says, "What a career it has been and continues to be!"

John sees his EC experience as more than a successful business and financial rewards. It is a place where relationships are formed and developed, where business and spiritual values are strengthened, where family legacies are made, and where business and financial opportunities are encouraged. He sums it up this way:

"Indeed, because of our values, EC facilitates the most important things in life...

It's about mentoring relationships.

It's about so many employees that have come our way.

It's about parents and relatives who believed in us enough to contribute financial help when others wouldn't consider it.

It's about our trust in God, who continues to change our lives forever as we humbly submit to Him.

It's knowing that all of this-opportunities, people, indeed lives-all are blessings from Him that we must not take for granted.

And, oh yes, it's about cleaning!"

Dean Hanson

EC South Denver

Dean joined EC in August 2000. He traded his career as a high school teacher and coach in Walla Walla, Washington to become a business owner. This decision also involved moving his wife and son to Denver, Colorado.

At our recent National Leadership Conference Dean was recognized for his outstanding initial company development. Specifically, he has produced several impressive statistics, including:

A new first-year billing record by surpassing the $20,000 Development Level with monthly revenues in excess of $28,000.
A new EC record for the largest "first account" signed ($7,500 month).

Dean says, "The most obvious and appealing aspect of the introductory phase in my EC relationship was the honesty and openness that the Home Office demonstrated. This is the culture of the company, and as my relationship with them grew, I saw this as an integral part of the way they do business."

When Dean attended the Company Development Seminar, he realized that he didn't have to change who he was to succeed as an owner of an EC franchise. Rather, he had to learn how to incorporate the many years of tested and proven experience the Home Office has to offer into his new company.

Dean came from a career in education. He found the examples of honesty and openness provided by the Home Office like a "drink of fresh water" compared to the environment he had been in. He says EC makes managers their number one commitment and he feels he has been well taken care of, both as an associate and as a friend. "The EC culture is more like a partnership and family than a typical business relationship. When I speak with the Home Office, no matter who it is, I spend as much time discussing my personal wellbeing as my company's status."

Jim Hennessy

EC Beachwood

Jim started in 1987 as a part-time nightly cleaner for EC Greater Columbus while attending college. He moved through the ranks and in October 1992 became the managing owner of EC Beachwood, Cleveland, Ohio.

The two people he attributes with having influenced his career most are his wife, Jackie, and good friend and mentor, Jonathan Hanks. "Jackie helps me to keep balance in all aspects of my life. When I get too far out, she reels me in! As my first employer, Jonathan, owner of EC Greater Columbus, pulled me back in spiritually and always knew what it took to motivate me."

Two major factors influenced Jim's decision to purchase EC Beachwood: 1) He recognized the income potential as an EC company owner; and, 2) Meeting Daryl Kraft, Founder and President, and Chris Schneider, Senior Vice President. He recognized them as Christians who were in no way pretentious-just honest people he wanted to be associated with.

Jim had great expectations of EC and offers this story as words of advice to others seeking to branch out on their own:

"I knew I was going to succeed but didn't anticipate the rejection that came with making sales calls. Initially, I took it very personally, which limited my effectiveness. I carried a lot of guilt, until making it a matter of prayer. From then on I was able to move forward to open those doors. Uplifting to me during this time was Matthew 7:7-8, which says, 'Ask, and it shall be given to you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it shall be opened.'"

Jim recommends that everyone investigating The Environment Control Opportunity consider these four important factors:

Set reasonable goals, with defined timelines. You owe it to yourself and to others.
Follow the EC program; after a while you'll think you can do it better-but don't, because you can't.
Stick with the EC Development Program. It encouraged me, and in my book, it's a winner!
Never take a "no" response personally.

EC Beachwood is a member of the President's CORE of Excellence.

Kevin Steinseifer

EC Colorado Springs

EC Colorado Springs, which began operation in 1994, is considered the fastest growing company in EC's history. Owner Kevin Steinseifer is credited with having successfully developed his company to Stage V Development in a record three years, at the same time maintaining a strong financial base and solid organizational structure.

Formerly an electrical contractor, Kevin was successful but became increasingly frustrated by the economic ups and downs of the building industry. He began looking at other business opportunities that would afford he and his family greater financial stability.

During this same time, his wife Diane went to work for Environment Control Sacramento as the Owner's (Ben Evans) administrative assistant. As Kevin got to know Ben through Diane's involvement, he realized that EC served a more stable economic market that afforded the financial stability Kevin was looking for.

Over the next several months Kevin explored opportunities within EC. Once satisfied that the business plan was credible, Kevin visited Environment Control's Home Office to take a closer look at the corporation and the support provided by the Franchisor. Kevin was impressed with EC's corporate philosophy, unique business plan, comprehensive training programs, and support services. In the process, Kevin discovered that Environment Control was an opportunity to be in business for himself without having to be in business by himself.

Kevin and Diane chose Colorado Springs, Colorado as their new home. Kevin will tell you that he owes his company's rapid growth and financial stability to the active support and involvement he receives from both the EC Home Office and from good friend, partner and mentor, Ben Evans. Kevin also believes that at EC, it's a team effort and that he enjoys the excitement of leading a staff of sharp, motivated professionals, who share the success of his company.

In March 2000, Kevin received one of Environment Control's highest awards as a member of the President's CORE of Excellence. This recognition is based on exemplary growth and company performance for a consecutive 24-month period.

Reid Warner

EC Albuquerque

Reid Warner attended the University of New Mexico and obtained a B.S. in history. In addition to owning a small janitorial business in Albuquerque, he wanted to become a better Bible teacher. Reid went to Palo Alto, California for more biblical training and worked part time for the EC franchise in the area. His wife's parents continued to oversee the janitorial business while he was away.

In 1981, Reid, with his wife Amy, and a growing family to support, returned to Albuquerque to open an Environment Control company with a partner. After five years, Reid mortgaged his home again and purchased one hundred percent ownership in the franchise.

Reid believes the strength of the EC business plan, coupled with the monthly telephone contact with the Home Office, are the two major contributors to his success in the first two years of the business. He continues to value his relationship with the Home Office staff and the availability of their professional business counsel and encouragement as his company continues to grow. In 1998, EC Albuquerque received the Outstanding Achievement Award in Company Development at the corporation's National Leadership Conference. In 2004, the company was recognized for its growth in the corporation's national sales campaign.

Environment Control's motto, "It's About Lives," reinforces Reid's commitment to operate every aspect of his business with integrity, and increased his desire to help his employees develop professionally and personally. Other than his wife Amy, Reid says no one has contributed more to his own spiritual development than Daryl Kraft, President and Owner of Environment Control. He says Daryl helped him to see the goodness of God in spite of the difficulties of business and life.

Reid's advice to anyone considering a career in EC:

Be sure your spouse and family are ready to support you in those initial years when you're working nights.
Be prepared to work hard.
Follow the EC business plan.
Peer encouragement is critical... commit to attend the first national conference and your Management Association meetings.

Reid summed up his experience with Environment Control this way: "In the words of Bill Sanders (another successful EC Managing Owner), 'EC is Good.'"

Stephen Bryant

EC Guilford County

Stephen Bryant came to Environment Control Building Maintenance Company in June 1979 with no business degree, not even one business course. In fact, an avid history buff, Stephen's degree was in Chinese History. Even though he was a very new Christian, he joined EC with an intense desire to associate with other Christians, who like himself wanted to grow in their relationship with Christ and ultimately affect the lives of others. Stephen quickly learned that God's truths were foundational to Environment Control's business philosophy.

When Stephen participated in the initial Company Development Seminar in June 1979, he had no idea EC would be his lifetime career. In fact, half way through the five-day training he had to leave unexpectedly to join his wife Deborah for the birth of their first son Peter, born two weeks ahead of schedule!

During his tenure with Environment Control, Stephen has received virtually every company honor-some more than once. And, because of his consistent business track record, he has served on every annual Advisory Council.

At Environment Control's 1998 National Leadership Conference, Stephen was presented EC's highest honor, The Foundation Award, presented to only one other EC Company Owner in EC's 35-year history: recognized for generating the highest annual profit in actual dollars of any EC Company for most of his 20-year career. His steady, consistent approach to growth and development were done with great passion and, as Stephen would say, "I just followed the manual!" Also, Stephen has had a history of influencing people, never forgetting that "It's About Lives."

Other distinguished awards that Stephen has earned over the past years include: The 1997 and 1998 President's Award, the 1980-Decade Award for Company Development, and the prestigious Foundation Award.

Tim Hofer

EC Visalia

Tim began his career with Environment Control in 1971 as a part-time nightly cleaner in the Fresno franchise. Still in college, Tim advanced quickly to foreman after only three nights on the job! And after only four months, he was promoted to a supervisor, learning more about Environment Control every step of the way. Tim found that not only did EC have a commendable track record in the commercial building maintenance industry; more importantly, they based their entire organization on Christian values. In 1973, Tim accepted an opportunity to become a managing partner in Environment Control Bakersfield.

After six years in the business Tim didn't think "janitorial work" was for him. With a bachelor's degree from California State University Fresno, Tim joined the family farming business. But, as Tim will tell you, "I soon learned God had another plan."

Within months of returning to his hometown of Dinuba, California, Tim received numerous inquiries asking for recommendations for a good commercial janitorial service. At that point, he felt the Lord was leading him back into the janitorial industry, and decided to start his own independent janitorial service. But, in 1984 he returned to EC, starting the Visalia franchise as a managing partner.

Asked what major factors have contributed to his success, Tim responded, "I can think of several-these are the main ones:

First and foremost, I give credit to my family heritage. It set the stage for my transition into a business of my own. My folks were farmers, and as I grew up my dad taught me the value of hard work. He stressed that success in any business is an outcome of hard work and dedication.

Along with their unique business plan, EC's training programs, support services, corporate philosophy, and the lasting relationships that are encouraged among EC staff and employees.

A solid client base in my territory."

EC Visalia has continually been recognized for outstanding company performance, including the $100,000 Development Award, 2002-2004 Corporate Award, The Foundation Award and is a member of the President's CORE of Excellence.

Michael & Janie Schwab

EC Triangle

Since 1984, Michael and Janie Schwab have built EC North Raleigh into one of Environment Control's ten largest companies. Growth has been steady because, as Michael says, "We have never wavered from following the 'classic' EC philosophy."

Michael began his career in 1981 as a part-time cleaner for Environment Control Guilford County. During the three years he worked for owner, Stephen Bryant, Michael became acquainted with the EC Business Plan as he worked up to a full-time management position. In 1984 Stephen asked Michael if he would be interested in a joint venture to open the Triangle franchise.

Both Michael and Janie attribute their success to EC's unique corporate philosophy that encourages personal and professional growth, integrity, trust, respect, and teamwork. Michael sees himself as living proof that with a healthy desire, proper motivation, and the backing of a proven and caring company such as Environment Control, anyone can become a successful business owner.

Today, Justin Schwab, Michael and Janie's son, is actively involved in the growth and development of the "family" business as the Senior Operations Manager. Along with four administrative support staff and 130 part-time cleaners and supervisors, Justin sees his parents' EC Triangle company as "a family relationship." As the Schwab family continues to pursue a path of steady, consistent growth, they too maintain that they see Environment Control Corporation as a viable "family" support system.

EC Triangle earned the 1996 Corporate Award and has been a member of the President's CORE of Excellence since 1998.

Tim Ortiz

EC Jacksonville East

Tim Ortiz grew up in Michigan and attended Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, Indiana where he graduated in 1986 with a B.S. in Business Administration. It was in college that Tim became good friends with Jonathan Hanks, Managing Owner of EC Greater Columbus. But after graduation, the two friends lost contact with one another.

Tim went into a management position with a company in Michigan, and shortly thereafter was transferred to Jacksonville, Florida to manage their branch office. After six years Tim made a career change and left the company for a new position in sales.

In 1998 Jonathan Hanks tracked Tim down through an Internet search and they reconnected after 12 years. At the time, Jonathan was planning a trip to Orlando and wanted to visit Tim in Jacksonville. During his stay, Jonathan spent time looking around Jacksonville, and thought it would be a good place to start another EC franchise. Tim and his wife Alison prayerfully considered the EC opportunity before deciding to partner with Jonathan in this new venture.

Tim began his EC career working part-time cleaning at night, and continued to work full-time in sales during the day for an office supply company. He had done some janitorial cleaning during college, so the work was not unfamiliar to him; and his background in sales and management was a tremendous help in getting the new EC company off the ground.

In the start-up stages of EC Jacksonville, Tim was mentored and trained by Jonathan, although he feels his parents were the biggest influence on him. They have always believed in him, and continued to encourage him when he started the business. Daryl Kraft and his corporate philosophy have been very meaningful as well. The "It's About Lives" philosophy has shown Tim how to be a better steward of God's blessings.

In 2001 the Franchisor recognized EC Jacksonville with the Initial Company Development Award. Since that time, Jacksonville has scored "Gold" in the nationwide CORE program. The most recent measure of Jacksonville's success is that Tim was able to buy out his partner and become one hundred percent owner of the franchise.

Tim also credits his employees for the company's success. He has strong, long-time employee managers who have been with him from the beginning. Tim acknowledges first and foremost God's blessings; and keeping God at the forefront of all his dealings whether in the business end, or with employees, has unquestionably moved his EC career forward.

Tim and his family believe the EC opportunity was meant to be... God's calling for them. Alison Ortiz is a licensed x-ray technician and mammographer. One reward from the company's growth is that Alison was able to quit her job and join Tim in the business on a part-time basis.

He would tell someone considering a career in EC to really check it out: the program, the company, and the Home Office staff. In his opinion, as Franchisee/Franchisor, there is none better. Tim said, "If you do what it takes, the rewards are everlasting."