Recap: Georgia Pest Control Association Winter Conference

The Georgia Pest Control Association 2026 Winter Conference, themed “sustainable by design,” took place in Athens, Ga., Jan. 13-15, 2026, emphasizing the GPCA’s foundation pillars: Growth, Professionalism, Community and Advocacy.

The conference totaled over 575 attendees, which included more than 60 vendor companies and 55 speakers.

Co-chairs Wyatt West of Arrow Exterminators and Mark Turner of Neogen were instrumental in the planning of the event.

GPCA staff and executive committee worked diligently to create opportunities which included business topics, wildlife courses, interactive panels and Georgia Department of Agriculture updates for growth and professional development.  Community focus is always top of mind. 

Events included a welcome reception, allied meet and greet and membership meeting were built into the schedule for engaging conversations. Advocacy continues to be a priority.  The Georgia Link Lobbyist, Trip Martin, attended as a speaker, and Chris Gorecki, Chair of the Structural Pest Control Commission (GSPCC), provided a Rules & Regulations Update. 

Another highlight of this event included the recognition of award recipients. This year, GPCA provided a special recognition for Timothy Taylor, who worked in the Georgia Department of Agriculture for over 30 years. Taylor passed suddenly on Nov. 19, 2025.  The Legacy Impact Award was presented to the GDA Structural Pest Control Division Team on his behalf.

2025 Awards recipients:

Several GDA staff attended and participated in a GDA Update Class taught by Derrick Lastinger, Vice Chair of GSPCC, and a company inspections class provided by state inspectors. 

All images courtesy of the GPCA

Not pictured was Nisus‘ Charlene Mertz, receiving the PestVets Veteran of the Year award.

The Legacy Impact Award was presented to the GDA Structural Pest Control Division Team on his behalf.

Bonnie Davis, Northwest Exterminating, receives the Administrative Professional of the Year award.

Patrick Morris, Massey Services, receives the Outstanding Pest Management Professional award.

Tiffany Raines, Bug Busters, receives the Woman of Excellence award.

Roger Lemasters, Cook’s Pest Control, is honored with admission into the GPCA Hall of Fame.