CPCO of Georgia Fall Conference Recap

MACON, Ga. - The Certified Pest Control Operators of Georgia Inc (CPCO of GA) held its 23rd annual Fall Conference Sept. 29 - Oct. 1, at the Edgar H Wilson Convention Center in Macon, Ga. 

The “Plug-In Early” Kick-Off Celebration included a presentation from special guest Canoo, followed by food/beverages and Vendor sponsored BINGO.  “We were pleased to have a video welcome from Governor Brian Kemp and have Commissioner Gary W. Black present with inspiring words to attendees. Thanks to Target Specialty Products for sponsoring this event which marked the first conference which Canoo displayed their vehicle to our industry," CPCO of GA Executive Director, Glenda Lehmberg

Gary Gumushian, Canoo’s Global Vice President of Commercial Sales and Business Development, and many of his team, shared how their innovative vehicles are customizable to pest management industry.  A prototype model of the lifestyle van was on display and pre-orders available at the conference 

Along with Canoo, dozens of other exhibitors attended this year. The 1 ½ day training included CEU credit hours not only from Georgia but 8 other states.  The robust schedule included a Manager’s Advancement Program (MAP) where decision-makers participated in business-focused topics.  This track concluded with a leadership talk from Chick-fil-A franchisee owner/operators. “I always learn something from the MAP track at the conference and look forward to it every year,” says Jay Lee of Captain Pest Control.   

The CPCO of GA Board of Directors named Eric Shaw of A&E Pest Control the recipient of this year’s Wayne Webber Award of Excellence. This award is given to someone who has made significant contributions to the industry and the association and demonstrates integrity personally and professionally.

In support of one of CPCO of GA’s hurting members, attendees were encouraged to write a note in support for a young technician whose spouse passed away September 21, 2021.  He and his two children, ages 4 years old and 8 months old, will be given cards of inspiration from industry colleagues and cash donations that were clipped to “the Giving Tree."  

Coming up, CPCO of GA is proud to be a sponsor of the P.E.S.T. Relief International Golf Fundraising Event set for Tuesday, November 9 at Rivermont Golf Club in Johns Creek, GA.  Proceeds will go towards building a home in Cumming, Ga., for boys 8-12 years old in foster care. To learn more about forming a team or becoming a sponsor and to register, go to www.pestrelief.org.