5 Questions with Judy Black, BCE

Judy Black, BCE

After starting in the industry in 1987 at age 25, PMP Hall of Famer Judy Black (Class of 2019) decided to retire. The last day of work for Rollins Inc.’s former VP of quality assurance and entomology was Aug. 30.

1. What made you decide now was the time to retire, Judy?

The time felt right because my department is in great shape for the future, with talented teams in place. My husband, John, retired five years ago, and we are now free to travel and do whatever, whenever.

2. What will you remember most about your pest control industry career, which includes stints with Terminix, Steritech, Rentokil and Rollins?

I am very happy that during my tenure at Rollins, we digitized several processes that made things easier for our operations teammates. On a more amusing note, we were able to change the name of the Technical Services Department to the more descriptive Rollins Entomology Department. Ultimately though, what I am most proud of is the development of the teams I oversaw. They are capable, values-driven, and prepared to move the departments forward without me. What I will remember over my entire career are the great people I got to know, both customers and teammates, and the fun times we had.

PHOTO: PMP ARCHIVE

3. You’ve long championed training women to be industry technicians and managers, as well as office and sales professionals. Do you believe pest control is on the right path these days in that regard?

Definitely. There are so many more women business owners now. Previously, a father of a company would leave it to his son. Now more daughters are saying ‘How about me? Why don’t I run this company?’ Women are also being considered for management roles. There is more open-mindedness all around.

4. How do you foresee professional pest control evolving in the future?

Universities are losing urban entomologists, and the industry will have to step up and support these departments. Part of our problem in fighting regulatory challenges is we don’t have the data to advance a counterpoint. There will be a technological aspect in what we do, but the role of people will remain the most important.

5. You’ve been an educator, mentor and role model for many. How would you like your pest control career to be remembered?

I attribute my success to hard work, and I never shied away from an opportunity. I wanted to do a good job, and I made the most of the opportunities presented to me.

<p>The post 5 Questions with Judy Black, BCE first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2024/10/23/5-questions-with-judy-black-bce/
Sacramento CA