08/05/2024

President's Message from Samantha Forrest

Summertime is Busy Time - But PMPs Push Through!

Dear Members,

I hope this letter finds you well and that you are enjoying a productive and successful summer season! As the warmer months are FULLY upon us, we are all acutely aware of the increased pest activity. It is a busy time for our industry, and I commend each of you for your dedication and hard work in providing excellent pest management services across Maryland!

As we continue to grow and strengthen our association, I want to remind everyone of the importance of completing your membership renewals. Your membership ensures you remain connected with the latest industry updates, training opportunities, and networking events. If you haven't done so already, please take a moment to renew your membership and encourage your colleagues who aren't MSPCA members to join. Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more resilient pest management community in Maryland.

It has been a planning summer for our MSPCA board members. We have sent out a ‘call for future conference speakers’ and we have heard from a number of folks – we look forward to bringing in some new presenters for our largest conference in January – yes, planning has started for IPMC 2025 being held January 29th and 30th. I am also excited to share details about our upcoming training sessions, designed to support your continued professional development and ensure you stay current with your pesticide licenses.

The Western MD Recertification Webinar is coming up on October 3rd.  The event will be held virtually, so if you need credits for your license, this will be a convenient way to earn them! As always, this training will offer pesticide license holders the opportunity to earn credits. Keep in mind, our webinars are live-streaming, therefore MDA considers them to be an in-person event, even though they are virtual. Our expert instructors will cover a range of important topics, ensuring that you are equipped with the latest knowledge and techniques in pest management. Keep an eye out for registration to open soon!

We are also announcing a new training event: MSPCA Business Building Blocks & Connections! We are thrilled to introduce a brand-new training and networking event tailored specifically for managers, owners, supervisors, and anyone who wishes to increase their business knowledge within the pest management industry.

MSPCA Building Blocks & Connections: Business Management Training & Networking Event will be all about helping our industry members lay a foundation for PMP excellence in their businesses. This event will feature a lineup of new and never-before-heard speakers who will provide valuable insights and strategies to enhance your, and your operation staff's, business management skills. It will also include a luncheon, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders and peers, fostering connections that will support your growth and success. Get the details in the article included in this newsletter or jump to the event information here. The MSPCA Board will also hold our semi-monthly board meeting directly after lunch. You are welcome to attend!

I also want to highlight that the MSPCA Board & Annual Meeting date has been shifted to November, rather than the busy month of December. Members are invited to attend this annual Board meeting and dinner event to learn more about their association, hear what was accomplished over the past year, and get the scoop on upcoming plans. We hope you will put the date of November 21st on your calendar and will plan to attend.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to excellence in pest management. Your participation in our training programs and events is vital to the success of our association and the industry as a whole. I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming sessions and witnessing the positive impact of our collective efforts.

Happy Busy Season Everyone!