New York: The American Cleaning Institute (ACI) has officially announced that Mike Rowe, the beloved host of the hit TV series Dirty Jobs, will headline its 2026 Industry Convention as the Keynote Speaker. The much-anticipated event is set to take place in Orlando, Florida, in February 2026, where Rowe will deliver his keynote address during the Keynote Luncheon on Wednesday, February 4, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
This announcement marks one of the biggest highlights of ACI’s upcoming centennial celebration — a significant milestone recognizing 100 years of innovation, sustainability, and progress in the cleaning products industry.
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A Perfect Match: Mike Rowe and the Cleaning Industry
For those who’ve followed Dirty Jobs, Rowe’s name has become synonymous with hard work, authenticity, and respect for essential labor. His long-running Discovery Channel show explored the untold stories of people who take on America’s toughest and dirtiest jobs — from sewer inspectors and garbage collectors to factory technicians and sanitation crews.
Rowe’s appearance at the ACI Convention couldn’t be more fitting. The ACI — which represents some of the world’s leading cleaning product manufacturers and suppliers — has long advocated for the importance of cleanliness, hygiene, and the workforce behind it all.
In an official statement shared via, ACI President & CEO Melissa Hockstad noted that Rowe’s dedication to championing hard work aligns perfectly with the institute’s core values: “Mike Rowe’s unique perspective and storytelling will inspire our members as we reflect on our century-long legacy and look ahead to the future of cleaning and sustainability.”
What to Expect from the Keynote
While full details of Rowe’s upcoming keynote remain under wraps, expectations are already running high across the cleaning and manufacturing industries. Given his background, Rowe will likely explore topics such as:
- The dignity of skilled labor
- The future of manufacturing and essential trades
- American work culture post-pandemic
- How industries like cleaning and hygiene sustain communities
His talk will also tie into the ACI’s ongoing mission to promote innovation, workforce development, and sustainability in cleaning and hygiene solutions.
Mike Rowe’s Broader Mission: mikeroweWORKS Foundation
Beyond his television fame, Rowe has spent years as a vocational advocate. Through his mikeroweWORKS Foundation, he’s provided more than $16 million in scholarships to individuals pursuing skilled trades — from plumbing and welding to manufacturing and maintenance.
In an era when industries face major worker shortages, Rowe’s foundation encourages young people to re-evaluate the value of blue-collar careers. His presence at ACI 2026 highlights a growing connection between the cleaning industry and broader conversations about America’s workforce future.
Rowe once said, “The people who keep the lights on, water running, and streets clean rarely make headlines — but they should.” That sentiment captures exactly why his voice matters at an event dedicated to those who keep the world clean and safe.
ACI’s 100-Year Celebration: More Than a Milestone
The American Cleaning Institute has been a cornerstone of the global cleaning products industry since 1926. Representing top brands like Procter & Gamble, Clorox, and Unilever, ACI plays a crucial role in research, education, and promoting safe cleaning practices worldwide.
The 2026 Convention isn’t just another industry gathering — it’s a moment to reflect on how far the sector has come, especially after the pandemic elevated the importance of hygiene and sanitation across the globe.
In addition to Rowe’s keynote, the convention will include networking sessions, innovation showcases, sustainability forums, and the annual Charity Luncheon, with proceeds supporting The WASH Foundation, an initiative focused on global hygiene and water access.
Buzz Across Social Media
On LinkedIn, ACI’s official announcement drew widespread excitement among industry professionals, with the post reading: “Guess who’s coming to #2026ACI? The one and only Mike Rowe!”
Dozens of cleaning and manufacturing leaders commented on how Rowe’s message about the value of essential work resonates deeply with the people who form the backbone of their businesses.
Across Reddit and podcasting communities, the news has also sparked interest in how TV personalities like Rowe are using their platforms to spotlight trade industries and workforce empowerment.
A Cross-Over Story for the Podcast World
For podcast listeners and creators, Rowe’s keynote is a reminder of how media personalities can bridge entertainment, advocacy, and education. Rowe himself hosts The Way I Heard It, a storytelling podcast exploring unsung heroes, history, and real-life grit — themes that mirror his Dirty Jobs legacy.
As podcasting continues to shape public conversations, Rowe’s involvement in an event like ACI 2026 shows how storytelling remains central to inspiring workers and innovators alike.
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As ACI 2026 approaches, all eyes are on Mike Rowe to deliver a message that celebrates the unsung heroes of cleaning, sanitation, and manufacturing. His keynote will not only commemorate a century of progress but also highlight the importance of hard work, innovation, and pride in essential industries.
For the ACI, this keynote represents more than a celebration — it’s a call to action for the next 100 years of cleaner, safer, and more sustainable living.
