NWCOA update: A look at the 2026 Wildlife Expo & training

The National Wildlife Control Operators Association (NWCOA) is a key partner for pest management professionals (PMPs), providing essential training, certification and networking. For professionals who manage the high-stakes pests detailed in our Attic pest guide (Part 4): Rodents & wildlife, these updates on professional standards and education are critical. Here’s a look at what the NWCOA has planned for 2026.

Key Takeaways

• The 2026 Wildlife Expo, hosted by the NWCOA, will be held in Las Vegas, Nev., and will feature a dedicated Advanced Operators Training Course
• NWCOA has launched a new, comprehensive “Wildlife Control Operator Training Course” designed as a digital, self-paced program.
• The new training course covers key modules such as safety, trapping, exclusion, animal biology and business management.

2026 Wildlife Expo heads to Las Vegas

The NWCOA has announced that the 2026 Wildlife Expo will be held in Las Vegas, Nev. This annual event is a cornerstone for the industry, bringing together wildlife control operators and PMPs from across the country.

The 2026 event will feature a specialized “Pest Management Track,” offering targeted educational sessions for PMPs who are looking to expand or refine their wildlife service offerings. The expo provides a critical opportunity for technicians and owners to network with peers, explore new technologies from vendors and stay current on the latest regulations and techniques.

New ‘Wildlife Control Operator Training Course’ Launched

In addition to the expo, the NWCOA has launched its new “Wildlife Control Operator Training Course.” This comprehensive program is designed to set a new standard for industry training and is offered as a digital, self-paced course that technicians can complete online.

The new course is designed to be a complete A-to-Z resource, with key modules including:

• Safety and risk management
• Animal biology and behavior
• Inspection and identification
• Trapping, exclusion and one-way doors
• Euthanasia and disposition
• Business management and ethics

The Bottom Line

For PMPs and wildlife operators, investing in continuous education and professional networking is a core part of a successful business strategy. The NWCOA’s focus on providing accessible, high-quality training and a central networking event like the Wildlife Expo demonstrates its commitment to supporting the growth and professionalism of the industry.