The pest control industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation. From smart traps that monitor pest infestations in real-time to eco-friendly Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques, innovation is reshaping every aspect of pest control operations. But who will guide this evolution, balancing cutting-edge technology with traditional pest control methods?
Enter NPMA’s Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) – an initiative designed to nurture the next generation of pest management professionals. This year’s class brings together a diverse group of individuals, each with unique perspectives on the future of pest control. As the exclusive sponsor of the ELP program, WorkWave had the opportunity to speak with several of these esteemed experts regarding the future of the pest management industry.
Embracing Growth and Innovation
For many ELP participants, the program represents more than just professional development – it’s an opportunity to revolutionize the entire pest control industry’s approach to pest management. One participant, Jennifer Miller of Miller Pest & Termite, shared why this type of program is so important for personal and professional growth.
“I saw it as a great opportunity to expand my expertise in the pest control industry, improve my leadership skills and benefit from the mentorship offered. The program’s focus on diversity echoes my own professional goals and my dedication to never stop learning and growing.” – Jennifer Miller, Miller Pest & Termite
This desire for growth is a common theme among the emerging leaders. Noelle Goins of Get Goins Pest Control details the unique challenges – and excitement – of being a business owner while still serving as boots on the ground in the field. Making sure she can outperform in both areas, she says, is key:
“[My goal for this program is] to be the best owner and technician that I can be, including becoming more comfortable with unique parts of the job, like chemical mixing and equipment use. I’m constantly in the field and love everything about inspections, customer service, rodent proofing and IPM problem solving, and making sure I’m caught up on the chemical and equipment side of things helps support my success in every other area.” – Noelle Goins, Get Goins Pest Control
From mastering new technologies, developing new skills and challenging the status quo, these leaders are committed to pushing themselves—and their companies—to new heights. They understand that embracing new pest management techniques is essential to staying competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
Building a Connected Industry
When pest control experts collaborate, they gain insights into effective pest management methods, new technologies and alternative approaches such as Integrated Pest Management. This collaboration not only fosters individual growth but also strengthens the collective ability of the industry to tackle complex problems. In an industry where regulations and environmental concerns are constantly evolving, staying connected ensures pest professionals can adapt and thrive, using the most effective and sustainable solutions.
Ryan Olson’s, Olson’s Pest Technicians, ambitions illustrate another key element of career advancement within the pest management industry. He stated that the ELP class helps enable him to “grow a professional network in this industry, grow as a leader and make our company even better and more efficient.”
For Olson and others aspiring to leadership roles, it’s important to build a clear pathway to higher positions, such as in state or national associations. Leadership in these areas not only provides the opportunity to influence the direction of the pest control industry, but it also helps shape policies that affect how companies operate. Being in a position of influence allows future leaders to advocate for the adoption of new practices, champion professional development for peers and ensure the industry remains adaptable to change. By working toward senior roles aspiring leaders can drive innovation and create a lasting impact that benefits not just their business but the industry as a whole.
By building a more connected industry, these leaders aim to share knowledge, drive innovation and collaboratively develop more effective pest control services.
Balancing Tradition and Shaping Perception
While excited about new technologies, these emerging leaders haven’t lost sight of the value in traditional pest control methods. Jay Swann of Appalachian Pest Control expressed a desire to “be part of the effort that continues to educate the public” about the vital role of pest control in public health and safety. So often, pest control companies are the target of negative attention. However, between the NPMA, its members, the positive leaders in the industry and the essential nature of the work, the perception of pest control is beginning to change. As a member of ELP, Olson says, “I hope to be an active member that carries on that legacy.”
Becoming a True Pest Control Leader
Many ELP participants are looking beyond their immediate operations to the broader impact they can have on the pest management industry. As one participant from Whitmore Pest and Wildlife Control, Inc. explained:
“I want to improve my leadership skills, expand my network with industry leaders and learn how to represent our industry well when speaking with politicians and those shaping public policy that affects our industry.” – Richard Christner, Whitmore Pest and Wildlife Control, Inc.
Goins, too, emphasizes the importance of advocacy in the industry.
“When we went to Legislative day–not only in D.C., but also in Sacramento–every legislative office perked up when we brought up our nonprofit. We got to help our first family and beneficiary of services just a couple of weeks before our Legislative Day in Sacramento, and sharing that final video of the job for all of our colleagues and mentors of PCOC was an honor. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room! These stories of us protecting people and our environment have to be told, and Rian and I are not afraid nor do we shy away from telling those stories. It’s not about our foundation getting the shine it is about our industry itself shining the way it was always intended to do!” – Noelle Goins, Get Goins Pest Control
Watch the Keep It Goins project!
This focus on advocacy reflects the growing awareness of the crucial role pest professionals play in public health and environmental responsibility. These leaders are determined to educate policymakers and the public on the value of effective pest control, ensuring their work is understood, respected and advocated for in the future.
A Vision for the Future
The conversations with these ELP participants reveal a shared vision of a pest control industry that’s innovative, responsible and deeply connected to the communities it serves.
As Jesse Gooch of Kanga Pest Control aptly states, they see themselves as part of “a group of amazing individuals all doing their part to keep our industry and our association vibrant and relevant.”
This commitment to advancement, coupled with a strong focus on professional development and community engagement, signals a bright future for pest management. These emerging leaders bring fresh ideas, technical skills and a genuine passion for their work, ensuring the pest control industry continues to thrive.
In the coming years, these visionaries will drive significant changes in how pest control businesses operate. Their holistic approach to pest management decisions promises to make pest control services more effective and environmentally friendly. By developing new Integrated Pest Management programs and reimagining customer relationships, these leaders are poised to redefine the industry’s approach to pest control. And, class member David Brown of Viking Pest Control put it perfectly when he spoke with us, saying, “I want to give back to the community that has allowed me to have a better life.”
The pest management landscape of tomorrow, shaped by these emerging leaders, is poised to be more efficient, more sustainable and more attuned to the needs of both customers and the environment. As we look to the future, it’s clear that the industry is in capable hands. These innovative professionals are ready to chart a course for truly effective pest control now – and in the future.
About the Emerging Leaders Program
The Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) is designed to equip participants with the skills necessary to achieve this balance. Through a combination of professional development, mentorship and hands-on learning, the program ensures that rising stars in the industry are familiar with emerging technologies, traditional pest control methods and leadership skills. well-versed in traditional pest control methods. This holistic approach allows participants to understand both sides of the spectrum, empowering them to make well-informed pest management decisions.
Are you interested in becoming a part of a future WorkWave-sponsored ELP class? Learn more about class information and apply to become a part of future programs with NPMA.
