Why slow months are ideal for making discoveries

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My first professional exposure to entomology came as an undergraduate at the University of Florida when I took a summer job working for a retired medical entomologist, Dr. Jerry Butler.

Dr. Butler is a legend in his field, with an impressive list of patents, publications and inventions. I learned a great deal from him about entomology and what it truly means to be a scientist. One of my favorite lessons came about, however, when Dr. Butler explained why entomologists never truly retire. “The more I learn about entomology,” he said, “the more I realize the less I really know about it.”

Making discoveries and broadening your horizons as a pest management professional is a never-ending journey. There’s no better time to expand your knowledge base than during the slower winter months.

The list of training options available today is seemingly endless, and the format of training resources is very diverse. While this can become overwhelming at times, the variety of choices can be an asset. Try focusing on a single topic or pest each month to avoid training overload. Be sure to set a training schedule with clear learning objectives and goals that can be maintained even when business picks up in the spring.

Keep in mind that learning styles can differ greatly from one person to the next. If you or a team member aren’t responding well to assigned readings or textbooks, try switching to podcasts or online training videos that may better suit a different approach to learning.

Another great way to reinforce content is through teaching others what you’ve learned. Group training events led by you or an employee are one of the most effective ways to reinforce new information and educate others.

Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself or your team to learn new things and share those discoveries with others. The journey of discovery is a never-ending path, and there’s no better time to start exploring than now.