What qualities can younger workers bring to the pest control industry?

Dr. Mohammed El Damir, BCE

Adam’s Pest Control

Generally speaking, their openness to learning and willingness to adopt integrated pest management (IPM) approaches supports a more adaptive, modern workflow. When paired with the expertise of seasoned field technicians, this balance of curiosity, technological skill and hands-on knowledge leads to superior outcomes.

Glen Ramsey, BCE, PCQI, HACCP

Amazon & Whole Food Markets

“Younger generations can bring an understanding and excitement for technology, a new way to look at things, and a different perspective because of their life experiences.”

Pete Schopen

RV There Yet Pest Control

“They want to learn! Many leaders of companies that I consult with get frustrated with the 18- to 25-year-old age group because some of them question how procedures are done. Sometimes, these owners feel the younger people are being disrespectful because they don’t automatically comply. I think it is just the opposite: They want to do the job the right way and, in many instances, they are smart enough to see a better way to do it. I implore managers to listen and coach these young people.”

Dr. Hamilton Allen, BCE

Fox Pest Control

“A unique perspective and social awareness. Too often, senior leaders can become comfortable in their roles and live by the mantra, ‘If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.’ Younger team members usually come in ready to challenge established norms. When accepted, their ideas can lead to increased technology engagement and the creation of social and workplace awareness initiatives.”

Eric Scherzinger

Scherzinger Pest Control

“The younger generation brings experience with technology in a vastly different way. They have been around modern technology since they were born and, for the most part, it has been part of their lives ever since. They have adapted with it as they have grown up and bring fresh ideas and an understanding of technology that some of the older generations had to learn later in life, or just don’t have.”

Sheri Spencer Bachman, ACE

Pest Control Business Coach

“Most younger workers want to understand the why behind what they do, not just be told what to do. Once they understand the reasoning, they’re incredibly hardworking and motivated. For our industry, that’s actually a gift. It pushes managers to be better communicators and creates technicians who think critically in the field, rather than just going through the motions.”