IPCA Spring Conference

Online registration has closed, but walk in registration is available 3/18/25

IPCA Spring Conference
March 18 – 19, 2025
Riverview Inn and Suites
700 West Riverside Blvd, Rockford IL 61103

PROGRAM OF EVENTS

Tuesday, March 18

8:30 am – 12:00 pm       IDPH Exam Prep Course
                                            Curt Colwell

This course is designed and led by Dr. Curt Colwell, retired Entomologist with the IDPH Division of Environmental Health. Armed with decades of exam experience and industry knowledge, Dr. Colwell has carefully designed this prep class to review the critical subject areas you need to know to pass the exam. Additionally, attendees can expect to complete a pre- and post-assessment practice test to help you identify strengths and weaknesses in your scope of subject matter knowledge. The registration fee for this class is $65 for IPCA members, and $95 for nonmembers. This class will be capped at 50 people. *SEPARATE REGISTRATION (WITH IDPH) REQUIRED TO ATTEND THIS PREP COURSE, SCAN QR CODE ABOVE OR VISIT IPCAONLINE.ORG. Restricted Use, General Use

1:00 – 2:00 pm                 Safety on the Job: Pesticide Applicators
                                              Tim Husen, Syngenta

The #1 responsibility of pesticide applicators is ensuring their safety—and the safety of others—while performing their work. In this session, we’ll cover essential safety protocols for pesticide applicators, helping you manage various situations effectively and responsibly. From preventing accidents and spills to knowing how to protect yourself with personal protective equipment (PPE), this talk will provide the tools and knowledge you need to maintain a safe working environment. By the end of the session, pesticide applicators will be better equipped to handle the challenges of their job safely and confidently, ensuring they are prepared for emergencies, are using proper PPE, and can prevent common accidents in the field.

2:00 – 3:00 pm                 Tips for Improving Your Mosquito Service
                                              Stan Cope, Rose Pest Solutions

In this session, we’ll explore the differences between private industry and tax-based mosquito control programs, equipping pest management professionals with the knowledge to effectively communicate these distinctions to customers.  Attendees will gain an understanding of how mosquito biology and ecology influence control efforts, and how to tailor solutions based on the unique needs of both private and public sectors. Topics that will be covered include: biology, ecology, inspection protocols, larveciding and adulticiding, non-target organisms and communication with your customer.

3:15 – 4:15 pm                 Nuisance Ant Management
                                            Tim Husen, Syngenta

Ants are the #1 revenue pest and #3 profit pest in the pest control industry—making effective ant management crucial for your business. In this session, we’ll delve into the biology and behaviors of different ant species, providing you with the insights needed to develop targeted, effective control strategies. Whether you’re dealing with residential or commercial infestations, this presentation will offer a comprehensive approach to managing nuisance ants and maximizing your success.

4:30 – 6:00 pm                 Industry Appreciation Reception

Be sure to stick around for IPCA’s signature event, the Industry Appreciation reception! Take advantage of this great networking opportunity to meet fellow PMPs from across the Midwest and talk shop with conference speakers and industry experts. This event is included in your conference registration and is open to members and non-members of IPCA.

Wednesday, March 19

7:30 – 8:30 am                 Continental Breakfast with Exhibitors

8:00 – 8:30 am                 Welcome and Association Update
                                              Tim Campbell, IPCA President

8:30 – 9:30 am                 Rodent Pest Management
                                              Sara Knilans, Bell Labs

Join us for an in-depth session on the most effective strategies for managing rodent pests in both residential and commercial environments. This presentation will provide pest control professionals with critical insights and practical techniques for tackling rodent infestations, from initial inspection to ongoing prevention. Key topics will include: rodent inspection, exclusion, sanitation, baiting options, customer communication and more.

9:00 am – 5:00pm          IDPH Testing
                                            SEPARATE REGISTRATION (WITH IDPH) REQUIRED

9:30 – 10:30 am               The Key to Audit Readiness in Food Facility Pest Management Programs
                                              Pat Hottel, Rentokil

In the highly regulated food industry, audit readiness is essential to ensuring compliance, maintaining food safety standards, and protecting brand reputation. This session will provide pest management professionals with critical tools and strategies to ensure their pest control programs are always audit-ready. Attendees will gain a thorough understanding of how to prepare for and navigate audits, with a focus on food facility pest management requirements.

11:00 am – 12:00 pm    Stinging Insects In Focus
                                           Oleg Latyshev, Rentokil

Stinging insects pose unique challenges to pest control professionals, from their aggressive behavior to the potential health risks they present. This presentation will provide an in-depth look at the biology, behavior, and identification of various stinging insects, including the infamous Asian Giant Hornet, Cicada Killers, Carpenter Bees, Velvet Ants, and other species. You’ll also gain essential insights into safe and effective management strategies, including Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques, and important regulatory and environmental considerations.

12:00 – 1:15 pm               Lunch with Exhibitors and Charity Contest

Charity Contest tickets for all prizes are available for sale from any IPCA board member or event staff. Cash, credit cards, and check payments will be accepted. Thank you in advance for supporting the H.E.R.O.E.S. Cares Organization!

1:15 – 2:15 pm                 The Dirty Dozen: Global Pest Management Adventures
                                            Stan Cope, Rose Pest Solutions

This lively and entertaining presentation is based on Dr. Cope’s almost 24 years as a Medical Entomologist for the United States Navy, including four years as the ‘Head Bug Guy’ for the U.S. Department of Defense.  Dr. Cope will share twelve real-world pest management scenarios (AKA ‘The Dirty Dozen’) from around the globe, with visits to Viet Nam, Egypt, The Middle East, Australia, Venezuela, The U.S. Vice-President’s residence, and other locales. Lessons learned, specific pest areas, and safety emphasis will be included.

2:15 – 3:15 pm                 Termites, WDI Inspections and Latest Research on Baits and Liquids
                                            Bill Blue, Corteva

This session will dive into the latest advancements in termite control, offering practical insights on how to perform effective Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) inspections. Learn about cutting-edge research on termite baits and liquid treatments, and discover how these methods are evolving to improve efficacy and minimize environmental impact. This talk will equip pest management professionals with the knowledge to stay ahead of trends, enhance their treatment strategies, and provide superior service to clients.

3:30 – 4:30 pm                 Optimizing Pest Control Vehicles: Equipment for Efficiency
                                              Jason Everitt, Rottler Pest Solutions
This presentation focuses on optimizing pest control vehicles for enhanced efficiency and safety, covering essential equipment such as spraying systems, fogging equipment, and chemical storage solutions. It will highlight key safety gear, vehicle modifications, and monitoring tools, emphasizing the importance of operator protection and technological integration. The role of GPS tracking and IoT solutions in optimizing routing and reporting will also be explored. Finally, a cost and ROI analysis will demonstrate the long-term value of investing in well-equipped vehicles and efficient systems for pest control operations.

3 Credit Hours – Register for Segment 1 on Tuesday
member – $75(early), $80(regular); non-member – $125(early), $130(regular)

6 Credit Hours – Register for Segments 2 and 3 on Wednesday
member – $115(early), $120(regular); non-member – $125(early), $130(regular)

9 Credit Hours – Register for the full event
member – $130(early), $150(regular); non-member – $205(early), $225(regular)

Non-Credit Seeking registration available at reduced prices (member – $50; non-member – $75)

Register for the IDPH Prep Course separately through the Events page. Want to register as a vendor? Sign up on our vendor registration form.