Key Discussion Highlights

2026 PWIPM Kickoff & Leadership Updates

Samantha Malone opened the meeting with an overview of PWIPM’s focus for 2026, emphasizing member-driven conversations and shared support. Jessica Garcia was recognized as the first female member of the WSPMA Board of Directors. Members shared professional goals for the year and discussed ways PWIPM can help support those goals, including mentoring and hiring efforts.

Hiring & Workforce Challenges

The group discussed ongoing challenges with hiring in pest management. Jessica Garcia shared strategies that have improved candidate quality, including simplifying job postings and using tools like ChatGPT. Samantha offered to share NPMA job posting resources. Product updates were also shared, including ISO 18889 certification for two glove products.

PWIPM of the Year & Recognition Efforts

Nominations for Washington PWIPM of the Year were announced, with plans to recognize the recipient at the Summer Meeting in Leavenworth. Discussion included ideas to promote nominations through flyers, the website, and newsletters. Jessica Townsend offered to cover two hotel nights for the award recipient.

Events & Networking Opportunities

Upcoming events discussed included:

• Pacific Branch ESA Meeting (April 12–15, Spokane), where a symposium highlighting women in pest management is planned
• PWIPM at the Park (April 19, Cheney Stadium), a Tacoma Rainiers game with food and beverages, limited to 40 attendees
• Eastern Washington meetups, with ideas ranging from baseball games to wine or outdoor activities

Samantha will post relevant events to the PWIPM calendar and continue exploring meetup options.

Conference & Community Engagement

The group confirmed plans to attend the Pacific Northwest Conference in February. A PWIPM hospitality suite is being explored for Friday lunchtime to avoid conflicts with other conference activities. Community service ideas were discussed, including potential partnerships with United Way. The Steps of Hope event was also reviewed, supporting the Safe House Project and human trafficking awareness.