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Web-Cote Industries, in partnership with the Academy of Pest Management, announced the launch of the Responsible Glue Trap User (RGTU) Certification – a professional training program designed to guide pest management professionals in the ethical, defensible and effective use of glue traps in real-world service environments.
The program is led by Susan Masciarelli, President & CEO of Web-Cote Industries, alongside Foster Brusca of The Pest Posse, combining manufacturing responsibility with field-based expertise.
Defining a standard before it’s defined for us
Glue traps have long been a foundational tool in professional pest management, particularly for monitoring and control within Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs. However, increasing legislative attention and public concern have created a growing need for clear, professional standards around their use.
The RGTU Certification was developed in direct response to that shift.
“This isn’t about defending a product — it’s about defining professional responsibility,” said Masciarelli, in a news release. “If our industry doesn’t establish clear standards for how these tools are used, those standards will be set for us. This program gives professionals a framework to make decisions that are not only effective, but that can be clearly explained and defended.”
From tool to decision framework
Rather than focusing on the product itself, the RGTU Certification centers on how decisions are made in the field — emphasizing judgment, documentation and accountability.
The program introduces a structured approach to evaluating when glue traps are appropriate, how they should be deployed and how their use should be communicated to customers and stakeholders.
Key components include:
- Five core principles of responsible use: Establishing clear expectations for placement, monitoring, non-target protection and humane handling.
- Five-step ethical decision framework: A repeatable process guiding technicians through risk assessment, alternatives evaluation and necessity determination.
- Defensible communication practices: Training professionals to explain their decisions in a way that aligns with both customer expectations and regulatory scrutiny.
Built for the realities of the field
The certification reflects the operational realities faced by pest management professionals, where decisions must balance effectiveness, safety, public perception and regulatory compliance.
By focusing on practical application rather than theory alone, the RGTU program aims to elevate consistency and professionalism across the industry.
Course Availability
The Responsible Glue Trap User Certification is now available through the Academy of Pest Management, with introductory pricing offered through May 16, 2026.
More information and enrollment details can be found at: https://www.academyofpestmanagement.com/course/rgtu/
About Web-Cote Industries
Web-Cote Industries is a U.S.-based manufacturer specializing in professional-grade adhesive pest control products. Headquartered in Hamburg, New Jersey, the company produces the Pro-Trap brand glue boards, as well as private label and OEM solutions for the pest management industry, with a focus on quality, consistency and responsible product use.
About the Academy of Pest Management
The Academy of Pest Management is a training center for Pest Management Professionals. It provides technical training and certifications to help Service Technicians and business owners improve their skills. The Academy focuses on professional standards, safety and sales training to help the Pest Control industry provide better service to customers.
