For over a decade, Matt Hacker has been a vital part of the Goodwill team, bringing with him not just industry expertise, but a genuine passion for people and mission-driven work. Recently, Matt achieved a significant milestone: earning his Registered Environmental Services Executive (RESE) certification through ISSA, the Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association, an achievement that helps set the stage for Goodwill Commercial Services’s continued growth into new markets.

Matt joined Goodwill over 10 years ago, initially leading grounds services and lawn care for Goodwill retail stores. Over time, he expanded his role to include managing commercial and state contracts, as well as janitorial services. Today, as Director of AbilityOne and Contracts, Matt oversees several sites, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Tower, Army Reserve Center, and the New Albany Courthouse - ensuring operations run smoothly, teams are supported, and business continues to grow.

Before joining Goodwill, Matt built a strong background in turfgrass management, with experience in golf course operations, commercial lawn care, and private estate management. As his role at Goodwill evolved, he sought to expand his industry knowledge and support the organization’s long-term growth, ultimately leading him to pursue the RESE certification.

The certification process wasn’t easy. Matt traveled to Dallas, Texas, for an intensive three-day bootcamp, completing a rigorous 11-module program that ended with an exam. The certification is widely recognized in the healthcare industry, focusing on everything from chemical safety and laundry operations to budgeting and staff management. Although much of Matt’s current work isn’t healthcare-specific, the RESE certification positions Goodwill Commercial Services for future business development.

“As we grow, we want to be ready,” Matt says. “Having this certification shows potential customers we’re serious, capable, and equipped to handle high-standard environments.”

For Matt, the best part of his job is the people. “The folks we serve and work with every day—you can’t beat it,” he says. “From managers to frontline employees, it’s just a great group. And the focus at Goodwill is always on people, not just production or profits.”

That mission is what continues to fuel Matt’s passion and purpose. At Goodwill, every dollar generated through retail stores, outlets, and the Commercial Services division goes directly back into supporting the community. Whether he’s overseeing site operations or building relationships with new partners, Matt takes pride in knowing that his work creates real, lasting impact for the people Goodwill serves

“I love telling people I work at Goodwill—not at a store, but behind the scenes in Commercial Services,” he says. “They’re always amazed at what we do.”

Outside of work, Matt keeps busy with his family. He is a father of six and enjoys coaching youth sports and playing golf.

His recent certification is just one more example of how Goodwill employees are growing, learning, and leading the way into new possibilities. For more information about Goodwill Commercial Services, please visit: www.goodwillbusiness.org.