PestWorld Attendees Prepare to Learn, Connect, Re-energize

Boston is a hub for culture, politics, history, baseball and — throughout this week — pest control. PestWorld, the National Pest Management Association’s annual tradeshow and exposition, is the ultimate opportunity for pest management professionals to learn from and connect with one another in one big, organized setting.

This year’s location is ideal for PestWorld, said Alexis Wirtz, NPMA’s senior vice president of meetings and associations management services. “We expect a lot of local [attendee] traffic being that Boston is accessible to many surrounding states,” Wirtz said.

Additionally, this year’s PestWorld is especially exciting because there is a heightened level of freedom to gather in large groups, as pandemic fears have waned. “We expect a larger group of our international members to be able to join this year,” said Wirtz. “I am looking forward to being back together with our members and creating a place where we can provide opportunities for interaction, cutting-edge education and the largest exhibit hall for the pest management industry.”

KICKING IT OFF. This year’s PestWorld kicks off on Tuesday with the Opening Ceremony, sponsored by Bayer. PestWorld attendees will be entertained by the Boston Police Gaelic Column of Pipe and Drums — an Irish-style bagpipe and drum group. The band was founded in 1992, and during the last 30 years they have led Boston’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Southie and they have performed with Boston’s Dropkick Murphys numerous times.

SESSIONS AND SPEECHES. For the Opening General session, sponsored by Corteva Agriscience, John O’Hurley, the beloved actor and New York Times bestselling author of “The Peterman Guide to an Extraordinary Life” will be presenting. His novel has inspired many to live life to the fullest — authentically and intentionally. His comedy career, which includes a recurring role as J. Peterman on “Seinfeld,” has brought chuckles to millions of bellies. O’Hurley is expected provide a versatile presentation with both heartfelt and comedic elements that will be entertaining. His presentation, which takes place Wednesday, even features a live band.

On Thursday, the General Session will feature Alex Sheen. Sheen is an accountability and commitment expert and has presented five TEDxTalks on the subject. He is a speaker, author, podcast host, internationally recognized humanitarian, and founder of “Because I Said I Would,” a social movement and nonprofit dedicated to the betterment of society through fulfilling promises. He has been featured on the TODAY Show, Good Morning America, The Steve Harvey Show, CNN, Fox News and more.

EDUCATION. Pest management professionals can fully reap the benefits of attending PestWorld by opting for some of the educational opportunities. CEU credits can be earned by attending various learning tracks including customer service, fumigation, general pest, management, public health, sales/marketing, safety, technical, WDO and wildlife. NPMA is an approved provider of CEUs in most states.

NETWORKING. Also on Thursday will be “In the Mix,” a meet-and-greet networking session presented by the Leadership Networking Community (LNC), Professional Women in Pest Management (PWIPM), PestVets and the Diversity Council. All attendees are encouraged to attend the reception and engage with other like-minded industry professionals. NPMA says this is a great opportunity to share knowledge, find opportunities for business growth or simply make friends. This event is sponsored by Corteva Agriscience, FMC, ServicePRO and Target Specialty Products.

AWARDS. There will be several industry awards presented this year at PestWorld, honoring outstanding NPMA members and their accomplishments. The awards being presented include: The Pinnacle Award; Women of Excellence Award, sponsored by Target Specialty Products; Emerging Leaders Award, sponsored by Rentokil; NPMA Gives Award, sponsored by Workwave; 2021/2022 Committee of the Year Award; and 2021/2022 Committee Chair of the Year Award. The awards will be held on Thursday and the session is sponsored by Syngenta.

DAY OF SERVICE. PestWorld is honoring the pest management industry’s constant devotion to philanthropy by continuing its Day of Service event. The PestWorld Day of Service offers several opportunities for attendees to participate in making a positive impact on the world. Events and activities will take place Friday. This event was not featured the last time PestWorld was held in Boston.

The Friday PWIPM 5K fun run and walk is the perfect way to get in a dose of exercise while also benefiting people in need. All proceeds from the 5K run will go to a charity of each runner’s choosing.

Pest World Gives Back is an event in which participants can help package materials to be distributed to local community groups and organizations. There are some fun surprises in store for this event, NPMA reports.

PestVets Gives Back, sponsored by FMC, is an interactive, off-site community service event for those who want to have a more hands-on experience. Join PestVets as they volunteer to aid local veterans in the Boston area. This event will not concur with the other Day of Service events — it will be held Friday.

Visit PCT Online during PestWorld for live coverage, including news reports, a photo review and more.

WRAPPING IT UP. In typical Boston fashion, PestWorld will be closing with a party at historic Fenway Park filled with baseball atmosphere and beer. After a long week, enjoy some food and refreshments while gazing at The Green Monster. This event will be held Friday and it is sponsored by MGK.

The author is PCT’s editorial intern.