President's Message: Embracing the Tools That Move Us Forward

Emily Thomas Kendrick
Arrow Exterminators

As I write my final President’s Message, I find it fitting that this issue focuses on technology, because if there’s one thing I’ve witnessed during my time serving this association, it’s how willing our industry is to evolve. From dashcams and telematics that make our fleets safer, to data analytics that sharpen our decision-making, to artificial intelligence (AI) applications that streamline daily operations, pest management professionals are embracing innovation to better serve their clients and communities. 

But what I admire most is how our members approach technology thoughtfully. The articles in this issue reflect that balance—using monitoring tools to coach and support employees rather than simply police them, turning raw data into strategic intelligence instead of chasing every metric, and implementing AI where it genuinely adds value while preserving the human connections our clients depend on.  

That’s the hallmark of this industry: We adopt what works and stay grounded in what matters. 

NPMA continues building resources to support your technology journey. Our new Cybersecurity Guidelines help protect your business and client data as digital tools expand. The Pest Control Industry Cost Study provides benchmarking data so you can measure your performance against industry peers. And the OSHA Resources Toolbox at npmapestworld.org remains an essential resource for fleet safety and compliance.  

I encourage you to take advantage of these tools. They exist because of your membership and your commitment to professional excellence. 

Serving as your president has been one of the great honors of my career. I’ve seen firsthand the passion, integrity, and resilience of this industry’s people, and I leave this role more optimistic than ever about where we’re headed. Thank you for your trust, your engagement, and your dedication to protecting public health. I can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.