McCloud technical manager earns ACE certification

Michael Rector, regional technical manager at McCloud Services, received the Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) designation.

Michael Rector. PHOTO: MCCLOUD SERVICES

The Entomological Society of America (ESA) Certification Corp. administers the ACE certification. It also offers the ACE International and Board Certified Entomologist (BCE) certifications. The ACE program is endorsed by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA).

“I knew it was going to be a challenge, but it was a professional development goal that I had to extend my knowledge as a pest management professional,” says Rector. “I spent many nights and weekends studying materials from the ESA and NPMA. When I received the passing score, I was thrilled. Being ACE certified gives me more credibility and knowledge in the field.”

Unlike BCE certification, the ACE designation is available to those who do not hold a degree in entomology. Requirements for non-degreed applicants include a minimum five years of experience in the pest management industry, as proven by a resume, CV or attestation of employment from an employer.

Applicants who have a degree in entomology or a related life science must prove one to three years of work experience, depending on the level of the degree.

Applicants for the ACE program must also provide two letters of professional reference and pass an online test verifying knowledge of structural pest control. A passing score on the exam is 75 percent.

A full list of ACE requirements is available here. Learn more about the application and testing process for the ACE certification here.

Candidates must be permanent residents of the United States and hold a current applicator’s license. The ACE International designation is for those who are not permanent residents of the United States.