Get to Know Shawn White
Shawn White, CEO
Pisgah Pest Control
Brevard, North Carolina
How did you get started in the industry?
I was tending bar when someone recommended that I apply to teach entomology. Thereafter, I met my future wife [while] bowling. Her family got me into pest control, and the rest is history.
Did you have any mentors along the way? Who are they, and how did they impact your career path?
NPMA connected me to Kristin Dodd [president of Carolina Pest]. She and I have continued our mentoring relationship for many years. Her patience, understanding, and knowledge of the pest control world have been invaluable.
What’s the biggest learning experience you’ve had?
Hands-on learning experiences, from learning to install bait stations to building websites and writing budgets.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Give our co-workers a goal, and don’t micromanage. Understand that sometimes we win, and sometimes we learn.
What’s the worst piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Whatever you’re passionate about, you should do as your job. This is terrible advice. I loved sewing until I was a tailor and had to sew for other people.
What’s your secret talent?
I am an artist, blacksmith, and silversmith.
What life skill do you wish you were better at?
Picking up on social cues.
What are you most excited about these days?
Our company has grown to a point where we can give back to the community. I’m excited to see what the future holds.
When’s the last time you changed your mind about something significant?
This morning. I am very willing to change my mind when shown new information.
What keeps you awake at night?
Creative projects.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
Enjoy now. Take a deep breath. Everything is temporary.
What was your most embarrassing moment?
When I accidentally locked my left ear in a car door.
If you could be a fly on the wall anywhere in the world for a day, where would you choose?
The National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.
What was one of the best parties you’ve ever been to?
Riding on the tour buses of well-known rock bands.
Who would play you in the film of your life?
I wish it would be Joe Manganiello, but sadly it’d most likely be Steve Buscemi.
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Cigars and scotch.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
To be able to spell without assistance.
What’s one thing you had to learn the hard way?
Not everyone is being honest with you.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
“You know what I mean?”
What’s a book that has stuck with you?
The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason.
What’s your favorite holiday?
My wife’s birthday.
Where was the best vacation you’ve ever taken?
The Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser resort in Walt Disney World with my family.
Finally, what do you want to be when you grow up?
Taller.
