PMPs further education through PMU

Pest Management University (PMU) is a cooperative effort among the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and individual pest management professionals (PMPs) to further technical knowledge of pest control. But we’re not here only for professionals in the Sunshine State — we’ve had PMU attendees from across the United States and Canada, as well as several countries worldwide. Our goal is to build a community of PMPs who want more than the minimum requirements for the industry. Owners send technicians to us because we provide standardized, high-quality curricula in three certification categories (GHP, WDO and L&O) throughout the year.

What sets us apart from other industry training resources is three-fold:

1. We work with a team of trainers with expertise in the industry; current research; and laws, rules, and regulations that engage attendees.
2. Our program is a hybrid of classroom and hands-on learning, in small groups.
3. Curricula are based on the task analysis used to develop the state certified operator exam, which results in high pass rates for the state exam held at PMU. Certified operators are required at each business location, which helps companies grow.

I encourage you to learn more and perhaps even enroll online at PestManagementUniversity.org.

Students learn how to pick the right ant bait based on ant feeding preferences (behavior). PHOTO: DR. FAITH OI

Compliance assistance is a hallmark of PMU. Practice vehicle inspections include marking requirements and label reviews so technicians know what to expect. FDACS Environmental Consultant Paul Mitola checks a vehicle logo. PHOTO: DR. FAITH OI

Students learn about foam vs. liquid treatment for termites in a hands-on manner. PHOTO: DR. FAITH OI

Giancarlo Lopez of Professional Pestguard Exterminating Services, Weston, Fla., demonstrates where he would bait for German cockroaches. PHOTO: DR. FAITH OI

FDACS inspector Don Grant shares a tip on how to know you are in compliance with the label requirement for a 6×6-inch trench: A dollar bill is 6 inches long. PHOTO: DR. FAITH OI

DR. OI, a PMP Editorial Advisory Board member, is director of Pest Management University. She also is an associate extension scientist at the University of Florida, and director of Florida’s School Integrated Pest Management program. Contact her at foi@ufl.edu.