Pi Chi Omega awards 6 entomology scholarships

Pi Chi Omega, the international fraternity for pest management professionals, continued its longstanding commitment to supporting the next generation of entomologists and pest management leaders through its annual scholarship program. Since establishing the program in 1976, Pi Chi Omega has awarded 189 scholarships totaling more than $301,000 to students studying entomology and related fields.

The organization’s first scholarship recipient was Bobby Corrigan, Ph.D., now one of the most respected and recognizable figures in the pest management industry on rodent control. Like many scholarship recipients over the years, Corrigan credits Pi Chi Omega’s support as an important part of his professional journey. Through the scholarship program, Pi Chi Omega not only encourages research and academic achievement that benefits the structural pest management industry but also helps cultivate a strong pipeline of talented entomologists who often go on to build careers within the industry after graduation.

Stephanie Hill, Ph.D., Chair of the Scholarship Committee and a 2010 scholarship recipient herself, shared in a news release, “This year’s applicant pool showcased an outstanding level of passion, academic achievement and commitment to advancing the pest management industry. The committee was truly encouraged by the caliber of students pursuing careers in our field.”

Hill also recognized the efforts of the scholarship committee, stating, “We are grateful to the committee members for their thoughtful evaluation process and dedication throughout the selection process. Choosing just six recipients from such a strong and deserving group of applicants was no easy task.”

Pi Chi Omega President James Miller, ACE, emphasized the organization’s continued investment in future industry leaders. “Supporting the next generation of pest management professionals and entomology researchers is central to Pi Chi Omega’s mission,” added Miller. “These students demonstrate exceptional promise and we are proud to invest in their future success.”

Miller continued, “Our scholarship program reflects Pi Chi Omega’s ongoing commitment to advancing the industry through education, leadership and research. Scholarship recipients are selected for their academic achievement, passion for the field and potential to make meaningful contributions to the profession.”

Below are the following recipients of the 2026 scholarship awards:

• John Osmun Scholarship awarded to graduate student Bandana Shrestha, University of Kentucky – $3,500
• Founders Endowment Scholarship awarded to graduate student Jun-Yin Lum, University of California, Riverside – $2,500
• Alain VanRyckeghem Memorial Scholarship awarded to graduate student Ashmita Sapkota, Auburn University – $2,500
• Austin Frishman Scholarship awarded to graduate student Fan-Ling Liu, Texas A&M University – $2,500
• Norm Ehmann Scholarship awarded to graduate student Austin McKay, Louisiana State University – $2,500
• R. Randall Rollins Memorial Scholarship awarded to graduate student Babatunji Daramola, Rutgers University – $2,500

Students interested in applying for a Pi Chi Omega scholarship can learn more here. Applications are accepted each winter beginning in mid-January and are due by mid-March.

About Pi Chi Omega

Pi Chi Omega is a national fraternity for pest management professionals. Initiated in 1950 by six students of PMP Hall of Famer Dr. John Osmun at Purdue University, including fellow Hall of Famer Bill Brehm, the fraternity today is comprised of nearly 450 members representing 38 states and 4 foreign countries. 

<p>The post Pi Chi Omega awards 6 entomology scholarships first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/pi-chi-omega-awards-6-entomology-scholarships/
Sacramento CA

UPFDA Spring Conference highlights tarrifs, inflation and more

From April 21-22, PMP VP of Content and Group Manager Marty Whitford and Associate Brand Manager Mike Joyce attended the United Producers Formulators & Distributers Association (UPFDA) Spring Conference.

Talking business

This year’s conference featured many topics, including tariff and inflation impact and strategies, making AI-informed decisions and a panel led by Marty Whitford with panelists Andy Linares, president of Bug Off Pest Control Center and  Brent Bunch, business manager of BWI Companies.

VIDEO: PMP STAFF

During the panel, leading distributors share insights on consolidation, tariffs, labor, training, fuel costs and inflation — along with practical strategies to protect margins and drive growth. Expect real-world lessons, actionable ideas and a few personal stories from those helping power the industry every day.

Giving back

The event concluded with a volunteer opportunity for all attendees, hosted by P.E.S.T. Relief International which involved cleaning and installing encasements on the mattresses of One80 Place a Charleston, S.C. non-profit that serves hundreds of men facing homelessness, and several hundred families needing assistance with utilities, food and other urgent household needs.

IMAGE: PMP STAFF

Look out for our full coverage in an upcoming edition of PMP magazine.

About UPFDA

In 1968, UPFDA was formed to represent the suppliers to the pest management industry. Suppliers felt that the best way to provide service to the industry was to establish an association to voice their common concerns and position on packaging, shipping, sponsorships, conferences, legislation and regulatory affairs. For 54 years, UPFDA has been giving this important sector of the pest management industry a voice.

<p>The post UPFDA Spring Conference highlights tarrifs, inflation and more first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/upfda-spring-conference-highlights-tarrifs-inflation-and-more/
Sacramento CA

Thermacell: LIV 2.0

Thermacell Repellents Inc., a Bedford, Mass.-based manufacturer of highly effective zone mosquito repellents, announced the launch of LIV 2.0, the next generation of its on-demand outdoor mosquito protection system for backyards, restaurants, resorts and senior living. Backed by newly expanded U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered claims, LIV 2.0 delivers a large protection zone against mosquitoes and no-see-ums — covering up to 3,140 square feet from a single hub with 10 repellers, without sprays, smoke, scent or mess. That is generally enough to protect a regular pool area, outdoor kitchen, dining space and lounge area combined.

LIV has expanded efficacy claims beyond mosquitoes to include no-see-ums, also known as biting midges (Culicoides spp.), addressing persistent, outdoor pests that can significantly disrupt comfort and enjoyment across residential and commercial outdoor spaces. The new LIV 2.0 was field-tested and evaluated at the Thermacell Science & Research Center in Hampton, Fla., and builds on the proven LIV product line trusted across more than 8,000 residential and commercial installations.

As the U.S. enters peak mosquito season, warmer temperatures and longer insect activity periods are increasing mosquito pressure across many regions of the country. According to surveillance data by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mosquito-borne diseases including West Nile Virus, Dengue and Zika continue to expand geographically, increasing demand for reliable outdoor protection solutions for homes and businesses. LIV 2.0 utilizes Thermacell’s scientifically proven spatial repellent technology to repel mosquitoes that may transmit Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), West Nile Virus, Dengue and Zika Virus, consistent with EPA-registered claims.

“Outdoor spaces deserve the same level of comfort as the indoors, without mosquitoes,” Adam Goess, executive director, Global Insights & Innovation at Thermacell, said in a news release. “LIV 2.0 delivers scalable, on-demand protection that integrates seamlessly into how people live, entertain and gather outdoors, without the hassle of spraying your entire yard and reapplying again and again throughout the season.

LIV 2.0 Key Features & Benefits

• Large, Scalable Coverage: Protects up to 3,140 square feet with a single hub and up to 10 repellers, with the ability to add multiple hubs for expanded coverage across larger properties and commercial venues.
• Expanded Protection Beyond Mosquitoes: Repels mosquitoes, including Aedes albopictus, and repels no-see-ums (Culicoides spp.).
• Scientifically Proven Performance: EPA-registered and rigorously field-tested in real-world mosquito environments.
• People, Pet and Outdoor Friendly Design: A scent-free, smoke-free solution that integrates discreetly into outdoor spaces without the disruption of sprays or misting systems.
• App-Enabled, On-Demand Control: Activate, schedule and monitor the system remotely via the LIV+2 app, with added voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Home (available in July).
• Long-Lasting Refills: Professional-grade 1.7-ounce refills, available through pest control professionals, provide extended full season protection for most home users with refill-runout notifications through the App.
• Built for Outdoor Residential and Commercial Use: From everyday backyards to restaurants, resorts and senior living spaces, LIV 2.0 delivers discreet, large-scale mosquito and no-see-um protection zone that helps keep outdoor spaces comfortable.

LIV 2.0 is available nationwide through Thermacell professional installers. Systems are customized based on property layout and coverage needs.

About Thermacell

Thermacell Repellents Inc., designs, manufactures and markets zone mosquito repellent and insect control solutions. Thermacell repellers have been in the market for over 25 years, with tens of millions of devices being sold in more than 30 countries worldwide.

Thermacell.com/series/liv

<p>The post Thermacell: LIV 2.0 first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/thermacell-liv-2-0/
Sacramento CA

PestWorld 2026 speakers and programming announced

The National Pest Management Association announced the keynote speakers and Main Stage programming for PestWorld 2026, taking place October 20–23, 2026, at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas. This year’s event will bring together pest management professionals from around the world for four days of education, networking, innovation, and industry celebration centered around the theme “Built for Your Business.”

PestWorld 2026 will begin on Tuesday, October 20, with the Opening Ceremony on the Main Stage, sponsored by envu, featuring emcee and mentalist Sean Bott. Designed to energize attendees and set the tone for the week ahead, the Opening Ceremony will bring the entire industry together for an unforgettable start to the event. Through his engaging mix of entertainment, audience interaction, and inspiration, Bott will help attendees build momentum and prepare to make the most of everything PestWorld has to offer.

On Wednesday, October 21, sponsored by Corteva, award-winning broadcaster and human connection expert Riaz Meghji will take the Main Stage with his keynote presentation, Every Conversation Counts: Building Extraordinary Relationships in a Changed World. Drawing from his experience interviewing influential leaders across industries, Meghji will share practical strategies for creating authentic conversations, building trust, and fostering meaningful connections. Attendees will gain insights into communicating with purpose, navigating conflict with empathy, and asking the right questions to create breakthrough moments that inspire action.

The Main Stage programming will conclude on Thursday, October 22, with keynote speaker Kyle Scheele and the annual Industry Awards presentation, sponsored by Syngenta. In his keynote, Becoming an Idea Factory, Scheele will challenge the myth that creativity is something people are simply born with, demonstrating instead how innovation can become a skill cultivated throughout an organization. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to generate stronger ideas, unlock their teams’ creative potential, and build cultures where innovation thrives.

Following the keynote, NPMA will recognize outstanding individuals and organizations whose contributions continue to shape and strengthen the pest management industry during the annual Industry Awards presentation. Awards presented during PestWorld 2026 will include the Pinnacle Award, Culture Catalyst Award, Technology Adopter Award, Emerging Leaders Award, Women of Excellence Award, Excellence in Sustainability Award, NPMA Gives Award, Committee of the Year Award, and Committee Chair of the Year Award.

Click for more on how you can attend PestWorld 2026.

About the NPMA

The National Pest Management Association is a non-profit organization with more than 4,000 members. It was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry’s commitment to the protection of public health, food and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. The association has had many notable leaders over the years, including Pest Management Professional Hall of Famers Bill Buettner (Class of 1998), Dr. Ralph Heal (Class of 2003), Dr. Phil Spear (Class of 2004) and Bob Rosenberg (Class of 2013), to name just a few.

<p>The post PestWorld 2026 speakers and programming announced first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/pestworld-2026-speakers-and-programming-announced/
Sacramento CA

Allergy Technologies: ATAHC Asthma

Asthma disproportionately affects residents in affordable housing, where pests such as cockroaches, rodents, dust mites and bed bugs are common triggers. The Allergy Technologies Affordable Housing Control (ATAHC) Program now offers a science-backed approach, in conjunction with a healthcare provider, called ATAHC Asthma. This new offering is designed to improve respiratory health by targeting these allergens through integrated pest management and preventative measures. Among ATAHC Asthma’s components is ActiveGuard Mattress Liners, which help prevent both bed bug and dust mite infestations, lowering allergen levels in high-risk homes.

About Allergy Technologies

Allergy Technologies’ mission is to improve the environmental conditions in which people live. This focus led to the establishment of its trademarked ATAHC Program, which has proven to successfully control and prevent the scourge of bed bugs in both affordable housing and other community and hospitality facilities.

Allergy Technologies notes that its flagship product, ActiveGuard Mattress Liners, is “the only EPA-registered product labeled to deliver two-year bed bug and dust mite prevention, preventing future infestations by killing bed bugs and dust mites in the most challenging environments, such as affordable housing.”

ATAHCnow.com/atahc-asthma

<p>The post Allergy Technologies: ATAHC Asthma first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/allergy-technologies-atahc-asthma/
Sacramento CA

BASF: Fendona CS

Effective mosquito control requires an integrated approach that combines source reduction, larval control, adulticide applications and community education. Professional-grade insecticides remain a vital tool in protecting public health when mosquito populations pose disease risks.

One solution supporting these efforts is Fendona CS controlled release insecticide from BASF. Powered by alpha-cypermethrin and formulated with advanced microencapsulation technology, Fendona CS provides up to 90-day residual control on a variety of mosquito species and other key labeled pests. The controlled release helps protect the active ingredient from environmental degradation, delivering consistent performance even in challenging outdoor conditions. 

For mosquito management programs, Fendona CS can significantly reduce adult resting populations around structures. Targeting shaded harborage areas — such as under decks, along foundations and around dense vegetation — creates a protective perimeter that complements larval control programs and source reduction efforts. Fendona CS has also shown to have ovicidal properties, preventing mosquito eggs from hatching into adults when treated.

In addition to mosquito treatments, Fendona CS is recommended for quarterly outdoor maintenance, perimeter treatments including landscape and turf areas, spiders and tick management. Talk to your distributor about special pricing when you purchase Fendona CS 120-ounce bottles by pallet or half pallet.

About BASF

BASF Corp., headquartered in Florham Park, N.J., is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has approximately 16,000 employees in North America and had sales of $25.7 billion in 2022.

BASF creates chemistry for a sustainable future by combining economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. More than 110,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of its customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. BASF’s portfolio is organized into six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions.

PestControl.BASF.us

<p>The post BASF: Fendona CS first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/basf-fendona-cs/
Sacramento CA

Pro Techs Pest Control keeps company in the family

Todd Gennette, who founded Concordia, Kan.-based Pro Techs Pest Control in 2023, has sold the company to his son Ty Gennette and longtime employee Derek Newlin and his wife, Paula Newlin.

Ty Gennette, and Derek Newlin, who worked with Todd for years and Derek’s wife, Paula, have purchased Pro Techs and will lead it into the next generation of pest control. Both Ty and Newlin are qualified as Master Technicians in pest control. Ty will handle the operational side of the company. Derek, who is a loan officer at the Guaranty Bank in Beloit, will help out in the evenings and on weekends.

“Dad always hoped that Derek and I would take it over, but things held that back for awhile,” said Ty told the Concordia Blade Empire in a news article about the sale. “Derek and I and Paula started talking about it last summer. And Derek’s son Will always had aspirations to be in the business, too. The timing was perfect.”

Ty and the Newlins plan on aggressively expanding the business. “Right now we basically service a 60-mile radius, up into southern Nebraska,” added Ty. “Our goal is to expand that and add more technicians. The sky is the limit for Pro Techs. There’s smaller companies in the area that Derek and I have talked about owning, so we’re going to be very aggressive in expanding.”

“Our role models are our fathers, Martin Newlin and Todd Gennette and also Tom Zugelder,” Derek told the Concordia Blade Empire. “They were in this business their whole lives, and Ty and I learned a lot from them. The pest control industry has always been a part of us, and we will continue that tradition into the next chapter of our lives.”

<p>The post Pro Techs Pest Control keeps company in the family first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/pro-techs-pest-control-keeps-company-in-the-family/
Sacramento CA