WIPC hosts another outstanding conference

Foster Brusca April 10, 2024

WIPC Conference attendees met up in Austin, Texas. PHOTO: FOSTER BRUSCA

This year, The Pest Posse concluded its Women in Pest Control Recognition Series with a twist: Instead of honoring an individual, we chose to recognize an entire industry conference dedicated to women.

The Women in Pest Control (WIPC) Conference took place Feb. 29 and March 1, in Austin, Texas. It was supported by diamond sponsor AAC Distributing and platinum sponsors FieldRoutes and Pest Daily, alongside other suppliers showcased in the expo hall. Pest Management Professional was a silver-level sponsor of the event.

This conference spotlighted the significant contributions of women in the pest control industry, offering two days of informative and engaging presentations from leading women in the pest control industry.

The Pest Posse had the privilege of sitting down with the creators of the conference: Lisa Botts, ACE, owner of Tomball, Texas-based Peacock Pest Prevention, and Bobbie Terry, owner of Austin, Texas-based The Bug Lady (and founder of WIPC, which began as a Facebook Group). We delved into their perspectives on this groundbreaking event, now in its fourth incarnation.

Botts underscored the importance of supporting and empowering women in the industry, advocating for professionalism, health and vector control. Meanwhile, Terry shared her personal journey and the driving force behind establishing the WIPC Conference. Her vision extends to advocating across all states to bolster support for women in the industry, cultivating a nurturing network, and elevating professionalism.

Pest Management Professional Hall of Famer Dr. Cisse Spragins (Class of 2018), far right, speaks to a trio of attendees about her industry product manufacturing company, Rockwell Labs. PHOTO: FOSTER BRUSCA

The conference also featured several awards: the prestigious Bobbie Terry Humanitarian Award, which Lisa Wiedemann of Rose Pest Solutions received, the Service Technician of the Year, and a business grant awarded to a female entrepreneur. Nanette Rota, the proud new owner of Praying Nantis Pest Control, was awarded the business grant. Rota highlighted the importance of mentorship and community support, while Wiedemann shed light on initiatives like Gryphon’s Wings, which anonymously aids those in need.

Amber Byars of Pest Pros was honored as Technician of the Year. She shared her unexpected journey into the pest control industry and her dedication to nurturing and empowering others. Byars emphasized the need to dispel stigmas surrounding pest control and embrace the industry’s pivotal role in safeguarding health and property.

Overall, the WIPC Conference celebrated the achievements of women while fostering collaboration, mentorship and advocacy within the industry. It showcased the diverse contributions of women and underscored the ongoing need for support and recognition for women in the pest control industry. Watch the full coverage of the 2024 WIPC Conference for free online.

The conference grew from a desire to meet up in person after becoming online colleagues. From left are Lisa Botts, Melisa Arnold, Mary Susan Branch, Nanette Rota and Bobbie Terry. PHOTO: FOSTER BRUSCA