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.

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!