As my time as PCOC President comes to an end this month, I have been reflecting on what a year it has been. A lot has transpired this year with the sale of the building, Chris Reardon’s departure, the hiring of our new CEO Michael Wilson, the challenging legislative year we are having, and personal struggles in my own life with my wife’s health. Even as the year began, I knew I would not be able to do it on my own.  I am so grateful that each member of the Executive Committee stood up and helped drive our association forward. Every member gave their all -- and then gave even more to PCOC. 

In addition to the Executive Committee, I would like to thank a number of people for their support and hard work. Sarah Conrad stepped up, filled in the gaps after Chris left, and did whatever needed to be done. I would also like to thank just a few of the so many that made a difference this year: Mike McKenzie, Chair of the Strategic Planning Task Force, Jen Fox, Chair of Membership Committee, Darren Van Steenwyk, Chair of Legislative Committee, Sylvia Kenmuir, Chair of Rodenticide Task Force, Blair Smith, Public Relations Committee, and Jim Steed, PAPCO Chair. Please know my list is not complete and I am leaving out so many people who contributed to the success of my term. To all of you I say, "Thank you!” It has been an immense pleasure working with each one of you who made a difference this past year. 

I know that the association is in good hands with Michael. He has worked hard to take the reins of PCOC and I am confident that he will do an excellent job leading us into a healthy and successful future. Our President Elect, Mary Hernandez, is well equipped and positioned to take over as President of PCOC. I know that she and the Executive Team will continue to do great things for our association in the coming year.

Speaking of the future, while I may be heading toward the end of my career, I know that the future of the pest control industry is bright, as I have made a point of meeting some of the newest and youngest members of PCOC at each district meeting I attend. There are many young people emerging in the industry that are getting their licenses and building their careers, their companies, and some even their own businesses. I look forward with optimism to the future they will build for PCOC, our industry, and the customers we serve.

Lastly, while raising our children, Mary and I always encouraged them to, "Leave the campsite better than you found it!”  As I turn the gavel over to Mary on Friday night June 23, I pray that I have left PCOC just a little bit better than I found it!

On that note, I would like to encourage you to strive to do the same. Get involved where you can and stay involved. PCOC needs you to continue to move our association and our industry forward. As a long-time member, I have always gotten more out of PCOC than I have ever put into it. I can confidently say that it is absolutely worth it to give your time and energy to make PCOC stronger. In turn, you will grow professionally, make your business stronger, and make the industry stronger for the next generation of pest control professionals. 

Years ago, I stumbled across this quote by Teddy Roosevelt. It has been a guiding light for me over the decades as I have devoted my time and energy to serve PCOC and our industry. 

"Every man owes a part of his time and money to the business or industry in which he is engaged. No man has a moral right to withhold his support from an organization that is striving to improve conditions within his sphere.”

-       Theodore Roosevelt

Thank you for giving me the opportunity and privilege to work "to improve the conditions within our sphere.”  It has been an honor serving as your President, and I look forward to continuing to be involved in the association with all of you.

Greg Augustine
PCOC President