NPTA 5<25 Initiative

Celebrating the Next Generation of

Pest Control Professionals

The NPTA 5<25 initiative, proudly supported by Syngenta, is designed to spotlight and celebrate the rising stars within the pest control industry. We are committed to recognizing the outstanding young professionals under the age of 25 who are already making a significant impact through their dedication, innovation, and leadership.

Pest control is more than just a job, it’s a profession that requires passion, commitment, and the ability to adapt in a constantly evolving industry. The NPTA believes in nurturing the next generation of leaders, and the 5<25 initiative is our way of giving young talent the recognition they deserve, while also inspiring others to strive for excellence.

Our candidates come from diverse backgrounds, but they all share a common drive to succeed. Whether they are leading innovative projects, pushing the boundaries of pest management, or showing outstanding dedication to their teams, these individuals are shaping the future of pest control.

Why 5<25?

We believe that the future of pest control lies in the hands of those who are passionate, forward-thinking, and determined to make a difference. By highlighting these young professionals, we not only celebrate their contributions but also encourage a culture of growth and learning within the industry.

Meet the Candidates

Each of our 5<25 candidates has a unique story to tell and valuable insights to share. Read their profiles below to learn more about their journeys, achievements, and future aspirations.

RHYS

My name is Rhys. I first joined Vermtek on work experience when I was 16, and a year ago I came back as an apprentice. Since then, I’ve completely fallen in love with pest control. I enjoy that every day is different; working in new places, meeting new people, and solving all kinds of problems.

I never expected to want a career in pest control, but I’ve realised this is the industry I want to build my future in. Being accepted onto the 5<25 Professional Futures scheme is a fantastic opportunity for me to learn from experts, gain new skills, and build the confidence I need to take the next steps in my career.

It also means a lot to be part of something that is encouraging more young people to come into pest control. This is a growing sector with so many opportunities, and I’m proud to be part of a programme that’s showing how rewarding and exciting a career in pest management can be.

LEWYS

My name is Lewys. I’m 23 years old and based in South Wales, where I enjoy spending time walking my two dogs in the countryside, as well as playing football and cricket.

For the past four years, I’ve worked at P&P Pest Control Ltd in an office-based role. This experience has given me a solid understanding of the pest control industry behind the scenes, and I’m now ready to take the next step in my career by becoming a qualified pest control technician.

I’m excited to develop my skills and gain hands-on experience, with the aim of progressing into a leading role within the company. Achieving a recognised qualification like the RSPH Level 2 Award in Pest Management is an important milestone, and I’m incredibly grateful to have been selected for the Syngenta NPTA 5<25 Professional Futures initiative.

I’m looking forward to learning from experienced professionals, building my confidence in the field, and contributing more directly to protecting people, property, and public health.

OLIVIA

I’m Olivia Coops, 21 years old and excited to begin a new chapter as I start training in pest control.

I’m someone who’s not afraid to get hands-on and dive into practical, problem-solving work. I’m looking forward to gaining the skills and knowledge needed to help people live and work in safer, cleaner spaces.

For me, this is more than just a job—it’s a chance to build a solid future in a growing industry while making a real impact day to day.

OWEN

My name is Owen Gath, and I am 21 years old.

I am a fully qualified roofer, but when I kept losing money due to getting rained off and not being able to work because of heavy rain and strong winds, I decided it was time for an exciting new challenge.

I got into pest control through my dad, who has a company called Vermin8 Pest Control.

From a young age, I had accompanied my dad to work and on various jobs, but the thought of working in pest control didn’t initially excite me. I remember one particularly memorable job where we had to deal with a massive wasp nest in a family’s attic. It was an intense experience, but it taught me a lot about the importance of thoroughness and safety.

However, I have since discovered a new passion in this field, and I can confidently say it was the best decision I’ve ever made. Every single job presents a new challenge, and when we get called to rodent jobs, it feels a bit like playing the role of a detective, investigating and solving problems. We identify the entry points, set traps, and ensure the rodents are removed safely and effectively.

We meet people from all different backgrounds, and I absolutely love it. There is a real sense of satisfaction in helping people feel safe and comfortable in their homes again.

BRYN

Hi my name is Bryn Crofts and I have recently started a career in pest control at SC Pest Management, which is a small family run business based in Bolton-le-Sands.

I’m 23 years old and currently live in Garstang. Previously I used to work on a farm but have decided to pursue a career in pest control, following in my dad’s footsteps. A hobby of mine is fishing, however like in pest control, I’m a bit of a novice. My goal is to be able to help expand my dad’s business and one day, when the times comes, be ready for him to pass the torch over to me.

JESS

I am the proud daughter of MozzyMak Pest Control, located in South Lincolnshire. Since leaving secondary school in 2022, I have had the privilege of working alongside my Mum, in which I discovered how much of a variety of pest control work is out there and how amazing it feels to provide a solution to help people. Attending pest shows, award ceremonies and seminars has really opened my eyes to how big the industry is and how welcoming and supportive everyone has been towards me. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my two wonderful horses, Joey and Jelle.

Winning this opportunity to take my Level 2 is life changing! I will finally be in a position to head out on my own and expand our small family run business with the knowledge I will have learnt. My goal is to make our company bigger and better and therefore create job opportunities for younger individuals like myself. I am committed about influencing the younger generation as to what an exciting industry the pest control world is.

WILL

I am 19 years old and live in Warrington. I have always been surrounded by the industry of Pest Control with my dad who created his business 25 years ago. One reason I applied for this scheme is my strong desire to help my dad retire early and successfully expand our business. I can’t think of a more fulfilling achievement than making this dream a reality.

I have a strong passion for rabbiting with my lurcher and ratting with terriers as these pursuits allow me to engage with the outdoors and develop my skills. I believe that others should consider participating in this field as it offers a rewarding career where no two days are ever the same. I am looking forward to participating and expanding my knowledge within this scheme and encouraging young people, like myself, to join Pest Control.

MADELINE

I grew up in rural Derbyshire, and because of this, I have been obsessed with plants and animals since I was very little. I have had many pets in my childhood, with a mad array of chickens, dogs, ducks, ferrets, rabbits and many more. In my spare time, I really enjoy cooking, in particular Italian or Asian dishes, gardening and growing my own vegetables and flowers, and gaming with my friends.

I applied for the Professional Futures initiative to help gain a wider understanding of the pests I may come across and to gain knowledge of legislation to educate clients on pest prevention. I am also passionate about deepening my knowledge of the effects of rodenticides and insecticides so I can go about my work minimising environmental harm.

I saw this initiative as an opportunity to demonstrate that my profession isn’t limited to any certain demographic or type of person, and to show that, because of the Pest Control Industry’s ever-evolving nature, it makes for a very interesting career and one in which there will always be something to learn.

FARRER

I am 23 years of age and Live in Leeds. I like to keep fit by going to the gym and playing football. I particularly enjoy driving and support Leeds United.

I have always been interested in pest control mainly due to my dad having his own business and being in the industry for over 30 years. But since gaining more experience in the field I have become more involved and keener to develop my skills further. My dad would like to retire, and I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to grow the business further. This is the reason for applying for the 5<25 Profession Scheme.

I feel the scheme will enable me to relate theory to practice and ensure that my professional development is achieved. Pest control is changing all the time, and I would like to keep up to date with all the legislation. I need more theory knowledge to ensure I am carrying out the best practice for my customers and future staff members.

ELLIE

I’m a 24-year-old pest control technician based in Southport, Merseyside. After working part-time for my dad’s pest control and decontamination business for several years, I made the decision to join the company full-time after graduating from university. Since then, I’ve been dedicated to expanding my knowledge and gaining hands-on experience across all areas of the industry.

My main area of interest is entomology—I’m fascinated by the biology and behaviour of insects, and I enjoy learning about their life cycles and the most effective methods of control. I’m particularly passionate about exploring innovative approaches within the industry and developing preventative solutions for businesses.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading, writing and watching films. I also love spending time in nature, which has further strengthened my respect for the balance between pest control and environmental responsibility. I regularly undertake self-directed research projects on topics that interest me and strive to stay informed about best practice, including the latest guidance from the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU).

I believe pest control plays a vital yet often unseen role in protecting public health, homes, and businesses across the UK. It operates almost like a silent partner—keeping businesses safe, compliant, and functioning behind the scenes.

As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, I feel proud and excited to be part of the next generation of pest control professionals. I’m committed to growing my expertise and contributing meaningfully to both my family business and the wider industry.

If you know a young professional who should be featured in the next 5<25 cohort, please contact us at office@npta.org.uk. We look forward to celebrating more outstanding talent in the future!