MPW’s Canton, Ohio branch has undergone a major transformation, turning a once modest office space into a modernized, functional hub complete with a dedicated training center. After the closure of the Cleveland office left a gap in training infrastructure for the region, the Canton remodel emerged as both a solution and an opportunity.
“We just had our first class here a couple of weeks ago,” said District Manager Steve Runyon. “It was First Line Leadership. The space accommodated everyone, and it looks wonderful.”
The renovation took approximately three to four months, though the groundwork started long before then. The process included some stop-and-go phases due to supply chain issues, but Regional Manager Kevin Smith said the contractor did a good job managing the effort under the direction of Facilities and Grounds Manager Scott Hiles.
Hiles was in daily contact with the contractor, picking colors, sourcing wallpaper and materials, and ensuring all necessary supplies were available. He and Grounds & Maintenance Associate Jay Courson hung TVs and artwork themselves, with some finishing touches like picture hanging still in progress.
The Canton office now features new flooring and ceilings, a modernized wall layout, a kitchenette, and a dedicated training room that was created from former office space. Two newly updated offices near the entrance are now used by Smith and HR Recruiter Rachel Drockton. The bathrooms were also completely overhauled, and the entire building has been transformed from what Hiles described as a dark, “dungeony,” and unprofessional space into a clean, bright environment suitable for meetings and onboarding new employees.
Runyon said that while the building is small, the transformation is significant and reflects a long-held vision. “When Mr. Black purchased this years ago, Kevin and I looked at it and said it may look run-down, but it’ll be beautiful someday,” he said. “And sure enough, you see the fruits of our labor.”
Smith said office exterior updates are being discussed, including plans to improve the front concrete pad, add a walkway to the side door near the street, move the picnic table into that area, and install a cigarette receptacle to keep the grounds clean.
There’s also a proposal to paint the outside of the building, though Smith expressed concern that painting only one building and not its neighbor might create an awkward contrast. That decision, he said, will be up to the building owner.
The facility also allows for future growth, with the flexibility to add office space if needed. Hiles noted that in the absence of major expansion, simply having a dedicated break room and training room is a big win. “It’s a clean space now… Having that area alone is important,” he said, “whether it’s for meetings or for making a positive impression on new hires.”
The Canton team is committed to completing the work, maintaining the improvements, and exceeding MPW standards. As Smith put it, “It’s going to get done, and it’s going to be maintained and kept right because that’s the standard.”
“Canton’s always been a profitable region,” Runyon said, “but it’s never had the best facilities—until now.”