The main challenge facing pest management professionals (PMPs) now through 2033 will be how to satisfy a growing public demand for zero pests.
Pesticide manufacturers already are developing less-toxic, target-specific pesticides. Concurrently, biologists are developing better monitoring systems and exclusion techniques based on pest behavior. To adapt to these advancing technologies and techniques, the stereotypical “spray jockey” must morph into an applied biologist.
Another key facet of PMPs’ charter over the next 20 years will be more clearly define their roles (aka “better manage expectations”) by underlining to customers and prospects, as well as the media and general public, that:
- Pests infesting structures or adjacent areas pose risks to the health and safety of occupants.
- PMPs’ core job is to manage or remove pest species from structures to protect inhabitants and maintain structural integrity.
Learn & Live the ABCs of SOPs
To design and implement more-successful integrated pest management (IPM) programs, PMPs must know the identity and related biology of a wider range of ever-evolving pests species.
To still be in business in 2033, PMPs also must learn and live the ABCs of SOPs (standard operating procedures) such as:
- Design and implement detailed, customized pest management plans.
- Thoroughly inspect structures and properties for evidence of pest infestations.
- Prescribe appropriate steps toward pest elimination and exclusion.
- Precisely measure and document the dimensions of all treatment areas and all pest management solutions used.
- Closely estimate the cost of services by factoring in travel and labor time, materials, equipment, etc.
- Safely and efficiently operate vehicles and equipment.
- Place bait, traps, monitors and other pest management solutions as recommended.
- Apply various pesticide formulations judiciously.
- And, last but not least, create layers of barriers to prevent pests from entering structures.
Education: ‘The Great Differentiator’
Historically, a high school diploma or the equivalent has been the minimum education requirement for a technician. PMPs can expect that bar to rise. A college degree is fast becoming the norm for techs, and by 2033 very well could be the new minimum requirement.
Although PMPs are trained, licensed and certified for pesticide use, and wear personal protective equipment (PPE), injuries and illnesses occur more frequently in our industry than in many sectors. These injuries and illnesses lead to higher healthcare premiums, workers’ compensation costs, and potential lawsuits and claims.
Technologies, techniques and regulations are changing more rapidly than ever. That’s why continuing education will become increasingly important — whether through ongoing training at the company level or classes provided by universities, associations, manufacturers, distributors, and/or the media. For example, in the near future, applied technology training will include a range of species-specific solutions from specialized biocide formulations and semiochemicals to DNA testing and spatial data logging.
Want to survive and thrive the next 20 years? In the fiercely competitive pest management world, PMPs have two options: Either journey onward and upward … or stand still. But remember, in reality there is no standing still. You either “grow or go.” pmp
Dr. Mitchell, D.O., Ph.D., M.P.H., B.C.E., a board-certified physician and entomologist, is principal technical specialist for PestWest Environmental, as well as PMP’s Technical Editor. He can be reached at docmitchell@northcoastmedia.net or 515-333-8923.
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