Thank you to everyone who participated in our recent PWIPM meeting on January 24, 2025. We covered some incredible topics and had thoughtful discussions about growing our community, enhancing professional resources, and upcoming opportunities for engagement. Below are the meeting notes to recap what we discussed and outline next steps for our initiatives.

Meeting Notes: PWIPM Meeting - January 24, 2025

Agenda Items

1. Determining Information for PWIPM Toolbox

2. Developing a Statewide Mentorship Network

3. Brainstorming Engagement Strategies for Women in the Industry

Key Discussions and Outcomes

PWIPM Toolbox

The group discussed various ideas for the contents of the PWIPM toolbox. Suggestions included event examples from other states’ PWIPM chapters, recommendations for books and podcasts, uniform guidelines, safety resources, and other professional tools. It was agreed that further direction is needed to refine the toolbox concept, with plans to expand it incrementally. Samantha will work to refine the idea and solicit suggestions from participants. Two recommended resources were Justice: What’s the Right Thing to Do? by Michael J. Sandel (Link) and The Perfectionist’s Guide to Losing Control by Katherine Morgan Schafler (Link).

Statewide Mentorship Network

To address the need for mentorship, the NPMA’s HIVES Mentorship Program was promoted as a temporary solution until a local network can be established. Participants were encouraged to sign up for the program by February 15, 2025, using the following link: https://www.npmapestworld.org/engage/leadership-programs/hives/. This program serves as a bridge while PWIPM continues efforts to develop a dedicated statewide mentorship network.

Impact Awards

Participants were encouraged to nominate themselves or others for the Impact Awards for Women in Pest Management. Nominations close on February 15, 2025, and recipients will be recognized during the Women’s Forum in Austin, TX, from May 12-14. The nomination link is https://www.npmapestworld.org/engage/awards-and-achievements/impact-awards-for-women-in-pest-management/.

Engagement Among Women in the Industry

The group discussed the purpose of PWIPM, agreeing that it serves as more than just a support network. It is a platform for sharing stories, learning from one another, and providing career resources. It also connects members to other events and opportunities for community involvement.

Soft Skills Training Series

A proposal was presented for a 4-6 week soft skills training series consisting of weekly 1-hour sessions. The modules would focus on key communication techniques essential to career success, including:

1. The Importance of Customer Communication

2. Active Listening and Empathy

3. Clear and Concise Explanations

4. Handling Difficult Customer Interactions

5. Building Trust and Rapport

To develop and execute this series, a subcommittee will be established. Interested participants should contact Samantha to get involved.

Upcoming PWIPM Events:

1. PWIPM at the Park: Rainiers baseball game (August 2025).

2. Starve the Mosquitoes Blood Drive: Tacoma, WA (May 2025).

3. Steps of Hope Walk: Fundraiser for Safe House Project (June 1, 2025).

Next Meeting:

• Date: February 27-29, 2025

• Location: Pacific Northwest Pest Management Conference, Hood River, OR