PestWorld 2025 Brings Record-Breaking Attendance to Orlando

PestWorld 2025 made history in Orlando with over 4,500 attendees—a record-breaking turnout that brought together industry leaders, innovators, and professionals for a week of education, networking, and celebration. Attendees explored the latest pest management solutions, joined engaging sessions, and built connections that will shape the future of the industry.

"The tremendous turnout at PestWorld 2025 speaks volumes about the strength and momentum of our industry," said Dominique Stumpf, CEO of NPMA. "Seeing more than 4,500 professionals come together demonstrates not only the vitality of pest management but also our collective commitment to innovation, education, and advancing this profession forward."

Opening Ceremony Celebrates Growth and Community

The week kicked off with the Opening Ceremony, sponsored by envu, where Stumpf welcomed attendees to the association's 92nd annual convention. She emphasized the power of individual growth to strengthen the entire industry. "When we challenge ourselves and grow as individuals, we don't just become stronger as people. We make our entire community stronger," she said.

Stumpf shared her journey of earning her Certified Association Executive credential and highlighted member success stories like Joel Nolasco, who went from attending his first NPMA meeting to being elected secretary of the association.

She announced significant milestones including nearly 700 professionals engaging with the new NPMA PRO Certified program in its first six months, record attendance at the Women's Forum, and the association's strongest financial position ever with an almost 9 percent increase in net assets.

"Say yes to something new this week at PestWorld," Stumpf challenged attendees. "Every time you step outside your comfort zone, you grow, and when you grow, our whole community grows with you."

President Emily Thomas Kendrick Champions Workforce Development

Wednesday morning's Opening General Session, sponsored by Corteva AgriSciences, featured the passing of the gavel from immediate past president Faye Golden to Emily Thomas Kendrick, CEO of Arrow Exterminators in Atlanta, Georgia.

In her first address as NPMA President, Kendrick celebrated the industry's strength. "The Pest Control Industry is in my blood—not because I grew up in it and not because it's my family's business. It's in my blood for one reason and one reason alone and that's the PEOPLE of this Industry."

She emphasized the industry's essential role: "We protect the public health, property, and the nation's food supply. We provide peace of mind in a world that quite frankly doesn't always feel predictable. Our Industry isn't only essential—our industry is noble."

Kendrick identified workforce development as the industry's greatest opportunity. "As Baby Boomers retire and Gen X eventually follows, we're facing the greatest transfer of talent our Industry has ever seen," she said, outlining NPMA's strategic initiatives including bridging the skills gap through partnerships, widening the pipeline by reaching veterans and career-changers, and empowering future leaders through mentorship.

"Business as usual is dead," she declared. "Technology including AI is reshaping everything. When we onboard and empower people the right way, we don't just fill jobs—we build careers, we build futures, and we strengthen our profession worldwide."

In a personal moment, Kendrick credited the industry for bringing her together with her husband Hugh, whom she met after following advice from industry mentor Judy Dold at PestWorld 2007 in Orlando. "Eighteen years later here we are in Orlando at PestWorld again and I have a family beyond my wildest dreams," she said.

The Wednesday session also featured Olympian Chaunté Lowe, whose story of perseverance and triumph over adversity—including her battle with breast cancer—encouraged attendees to overcome challenges with strength and optimism.

Inspiring Keynotes and Industry Recognition

Thursday's Industry Awards and General Session, sponsored by Syngenta, celebrated outstanding professionals across the pest management community. Dan Moreland received the prestigious Pinnacle Award for his 40-year career documenting the industry through PCT magazine. Attendees were also inspired by futurist Elatia Abate on the future of work and leadership in the age of AI.

Throughout the week, educational sessions focused on business growth, innovation, and best practices. The exhibit hall buzzed with energy as companies showcased cutting-edge products and services, while attendees forged connections and shared ideas to strengthen their businesses and the industry.

Friday began with NPMA's PestWorld Day of Service, highlighting the industry's dedication to giving back. Participants joined the PWIPM 5K Fun Run/Walk and PestVets Gives Back initiatives, raising funds for the Heart of Florida United Way and assembling comfort items for those in need.

PestWorld 2025 concluded with PestFest, a lively poolside celebration featuring local entertainment, fun activities, and plenty of farewells among friends and colleagues—the perfect finale to a week filled with learning, leadership, and connection.

Thank you to all attendees, speakers, exhibitors, and sponsors for making PestWorld 2025 unforgettable. We hope to see you next year for PestWorld 2026 on October 20-23, 2026 at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center in Grapevine, TX.