Mark Jackson: A Clean Focus

By Matt Solis, Editor

For Mark Jackson, establishing a career in the carpet cleaning industry was simply a matter of paying attention to his surroundings. “It all started back in 1969—my older brother had a janitorial service in Peoria, Illinois, and I started working with him and learning how to clean carpet and upholstery,” he remembers. “By the time I was 16, I had my own cleaning crew. It was great because it took me out of the streets and put me in an environment where I could grow.”

Mark eventually decided to pursue a career in application programming and worked for several major companies, but after 20 years in that industry, he opted to pursue his passion for cleaning full-time. Today, as owner of Class Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, he says his favorite part of his job is developing relationships with his clients and earning their trust. “I run into all types of people in this line of work, which I really enjoy.”

A resident of the Bay Area for nearly 50 years, Mark expresses his appreciation for the region’s diversity. “I love the weather and there are endless opportunities for whatever you’re interested in,” he says. “It’s just a beautiful place to live—it never gets old.”

When he’s not working, Mark enjoys spending time with his wife, Frances, and keeping up with his grown children and 10 grandchildren. He also keeps a keen eye on the gridiron once September comes around every year. “I love football,” he affirms. “I used to play when I was in high school and I grew up watching it. I also work out and lift weights, just to keep the blood flowing and keep the weight off.”

In regard to a professional philosophy, Mark espouses the importance of getting back up when you fall down. “Those are major words that I live by,” he says. “When I was growing up, my dad used to tell me that anything worthwhile is hard to get. That’s my main model. Don’t take any handouts; work for it. I grew up in the Midwest, which was tough, but it taught me how to be an adult.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Mark says he’d take steps toward maintaining an active lifestyle. “I would probably join a gym,” he laughs. “The last thing I want to do is become a couch potato. That’s why I like cleaning carpets—I can make money and stay active at the same time.”

Ask Me Anything!


Q: What’s your favorite football team?
A: The San Francisco 49ers.

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Greece. I’ve seen it on some travel TV shows and it looks so beautiful.

Q: What’s your earliest memory?
A: When I was six years old, I saw Wilt Chamberlain score 100 points against the New York Knicks. That was a long time ago, but I still remember it clearly.

Q: If you were a professional athlete, what number would you wear on your jersey?
A: Seven. That has always been a lucky number for me.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?

A: Lay back and watch some TV or play Solitaire on my phone.