Complete Story
08/01/2024
Exciting Announcement: WSDA Launches Computer-Based Testing!
WSDA
We are thrilled to announce that the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) has officially launched computer-based testing for pest management professionals! This significant milestone, over a decade in the making, marks a major step forward for the department and our members.
The journey to this achievement was filled with numerous challenges, including law changes, rule adjustments, staffing issues, credit card processing obstacles, and revisions on how payments are received by the department. These roadblocks made the project extremely challenging, causing frustration as the go-live dates for electronic testing were pushed back multiple times, and the wait times for in-person testing became unacceptable.
Despite these setbacks, WSPMA and its members persevered. Together with WSDA, we implemented a short-term pilot project to alleviate some of the wait times by posting testing results on the WSDA website. This collaboration was crucial in reducing the immediate pressure on our members.
Today, we celebrate a modern and efficient way of licensing our pest professionals. The introduction of online testing is expected to resolve the majority of wait times, offering a more streamlined and accessible process for all.
We are incredibly grateful to the Department of Agriculture for their dedication and hard work in bringing this project to fruition. The WSPMA understands the impact these testing issues have had on our members, and we are confident that this new system will greatly benefit everyone involved.
Thank you again to the WSDA, and here’s to a bright future with more efficient and accessible licensing for all pest management professionals!
