Dr. Laurel Hansen
Dr. Laurel Hansen is a highly respected entomologist who has dedicated over five decades to the study of insect biology, pest control, and pesticide education. Although she has since retired from academia, her influence continues to resonate throughout the pest management industry. Dr. Hansen taught at Spokane Falls Community College from 1968 until her retirement, shaping countless careers in biology, zoology, and pest management.
Dr. Hansen earned her Bachelor’s degree from Eastern Washington State University, followed by a Master’s and Ph.D. from Washington State University. Her career-long focus on carpenter ants has established her as one of the leading experts in the field. Since 1979, she has been involved in numerous research projects, contributing extensively to the understanding of ant biology and control strategies. Her work has been published in both scientific journals and industry trade publications, advancing practical knowledge in pest management.
Her contributions to research and the industry have earned her numerous accolades, including the Orkin Award for Research Excellence in 1993 and her induction into the Pest Management Professional (PMP) Hall of Fame in 2015. Dr. Hansen was also part of the PCT/Syngenta Professional Crown Leadership Class of 2006, recognizing her as a leader in the pest control community.
Dr. Hansen is also a published author, having co-authored two essential books: Carpenter Ants of the United States and Canada, and Urban Ants of North America and Europe. These works have become vital resources for pest management professionals, offering comprehensive insights into the biology and control of ant species.
Though retired from teaching, Dr. Hansen remains actively involved in pest control research and continues to serve as a trusted mentor and thought leader in the industry. Her legacy of education and research continues to guide and inspire pest management professionals across the nation.