FEATURE FRIDAY: Brandon Carnicle Took His Company From Side Hustle to Major Business

Brandon Carnicle has been an entrepreneur at heart since childhood. From a young age, the Arizona native has always started businesses, from selling homemade potholders to mowing lawns and even a trash can roll-out service for his neighbors. 

“After a brief detour through college and contemplating a career in law, I stumbled upon the world of pressure washing and never looked back,” he says. 

Fast-forward through years of hard work, learning the ropes, and embracing every opportunity for growth, and today Carnicle has two decades of experience in the industry, running a company that services major brands and people.

“With the support of my amazing wife Tanya and our two kids, we’re not just running a business, we’re building a legacy,” he says.

Here, learn about his company American Maintenance Professionals, being eco-friendly, and the motto he lives by.

 Tell us about American Maintenance Professionals. 

At American Maintenance Professionals, we are based in the heart of Phoenix, and service all over Scottsdale and the state, in fact. We specialize in providing comprehensive exterior cleaning and maintenance services to both commercial and residential clients across the Valley and state. Our range of services includes mobile hot water pressure washing, window cleaning, and parking lot maintenance, including street sweeping and parking lot striping. With a commitment to quality and attention to detail, we ensure that every surface we touch receives the utmost care and attention, leaving our clients’ properties looking pristine and well-maintained. 

 What drew you to launch the company?  

Launching the company stemmed from a humble beginning—it all started as a side hustle. During my off hours from working as an assistant for an attorney, I found myself pressure washing and cleaning restaurant patios. As word of mouth spread and demand increased, I began to see the potential for something greater. The allure of being my own boss and pursuing a passion led me to take the leap, quitting my full-time job and officially launching the company in 2005. It was a decision driven by ambition, opportunity, and a desire to build something of my own.

Any big clients you can name-drop? 

We’ve had the privilege of serving a diverse range of clients, including well-known names like the Arizona Cardinals, Republic Services, Great Wolf Lodge, Penske, and Lucid Motors. Additionally, we take pride in our discretion and professionalism when working with high-profile individuals, including celebrities and CEOs, where confidentiality is paramount. While we value all our clients’ privacy, we’re grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the maintenance and cleanliness of their properties, no matter how high-profile they may be.

Being eco-friendly is important to you. What do you do to incorporate that into your business?  

Environmental responsibility is at the core of our business values. We’re constantly on the lookout for innovative ways to minimize our ecological footprint. To that end, we prioritize the use of eco-friendly cleaning products and employ advanced technologies to prevent contaminated water from entering stormwater systems. One of our key initiatives involves utilizing water reclamation technology, ensuring that water used in our cleaning processes is responsibly managed and reused whenever possible. Additionally, we’re proud to partner with companies like Faythworx to implement revolutionary products like BAT Guards, further enhancing our commitment to environmental sustainability.

Most satisfying part of the job?  

Without a doubt, the most satisfying aspect of the job is witnessing the transformation of the properties we service. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about taking an area that’s dirty or rundown and turning it into something pristine and inviting. Whether it’s revitalizing a grimy surface with a thorough cleaning or breathing new life into a parking lot by restoring faded lines with fresh paint, the before-and-after transformation never fails to bring a sense of accomplishment.

Favorite places in Scottsdale?

One of my absolute favorite spots in Scottsdale is exploring the local mountains, particularly hiking the Tom’s Thumb Trail in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. There’s something magical about immersing yourself in nature, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the desert landscape. The rugged terrain, breathtaking views, and sense of serenity make it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Plus, reaching the summit and taking in the panoramic vistas is an experience like no other. It’s truly a gem in Scottsdale that never fails to rejuvenate the soul.

Motto you live by? 

Speak truth, honor all, lend a hand, cherish kin, commune with nature, nurture thyself.

When you’re not working, we’d find you … 

When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me soaking up the great outdoors with my wife, kids, and beloved dogs. We’re big fans of hiking and backpacking in the stunning wilderness of Northern Arizona, where every trail offers a new adventure and breathtaking vistas to explore. And when we’re in need of some serious R&R, you can catch us unwinding on Arizona’s very own local beach in Rocky Point, Mexico. Whether we’re scaling mountain peaks or lounging by the sea, spending quality time with loved ones in nature is where we find true happiness and relaxation.