Building the Future Pest Control Workforce
How the NPTA Is Helping Members Attract New Talent
The pest control industry is entering a crucial period. With an ageing workforce, rapid technological change, and an ever-growing need for skilled professionals, attracting new people into the sector has never been more important. At the National Pest Technicians Association (NPTA), we are committed to helping our members meet that challenge head-on.
Over the past year, we have launched several major initiatives designed to support recruitment, widen access, and showcase pest control as a modern, rewarding and vital profession. Together, these initiatives form a long-term strategy to ensure our sector continues to grow, innovate and protect public health across the UK.
The Careers Hub – In Partnership With RSPH
One of the most exciting developments is the launch of our Careers Hub, developed in partnership with the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH). In recognition of the strong links between pest control and public health, this partnership provides a national platform for anyone interested in exploring a career in pest control. It brings together:
- Clear pathways into the industry
- Real-world insights from working technicians and business owners
- Information for schools, parents and careers advisers
- Support for people looking to retrain or progress
- Opportunities for employers to reach new audiences
The Careers Hub also highlights the important public health role our industry plays, something rarely recognised outside the sector. By introducing the industry earlier and more clearly to those considering their future, we have increased sector visibility and improved the perception of pest control as a skilled, professional career.
5<25 Professional Futures – Backing the Industry’s Young Talent
As part of our commitment to future proofing the sector, the NPTA is also launching the 5<25 Professional Futures programme.
This initiative provides fully funded RSPH Level 2 training for young people under 25 employed by NPTA members. Each participant receives:
- Fully funded RSPH Level 2 Award in Pest Management
- Mentoring and industry support
- Access to NPTA expert teams
- A structured start to a long-term career in pest control
The aim is simple: give young professionals the strongest possible foundation and help NPTA members bring fresh talent into their businesses without the financial barrier of training costs.
By supporting early career development, we strengthen planning and ensure the industry continues to attract bright, motivated individuals.
Supporting Members to Recruit from the Armed Forces
Another key route into the industry is through the Career Transition Partnership (CTP). The NPTA has created a dedicated support package for members who are ex-service personnel, offering:
- Funding support towards the cost of RSPH Level 2 training
- Free advertising on the NPTA Careers Hub
- Resources to help employers engage with the Armed Forces community
Service leavers bring exceptional discipline, resilience and problem solving skills, all of which transfer directly into pest control. Our Armed Forces initiative ensures members can connect with this highly capable talent pool and receive structured support throughout the process.
Why This Matters
Together, the Careers Hub, 5<25 Professional Futures and Armed Forces recruitment support represent the most comprehensive talent attraction strategy our industry has seen in the UK pest control sector.
For our members, this means:
- Access to new, motivated candidates
- Reduced costs and risk of recruitment
- National visibility through recognised partner channels
- Stronger pipelines for future workforce growth
But more importantly, this work lays the foundation for an industry that continues to protect public health for decades to come.
The NPTA will keep building this future by raising standards, supporting members at every level, and championing the people who make our profession what it is.
