NPMA Honors Three Groundbreaking Leaders as Part of Black History Month
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In celebration of Black History Month, NPMA would like to recognize the many achievements by African American pest management professionals and the fundamental roles they have played in the history of pest management. This year, NPMA honors the legacies of the late Caleb Wilkins who started the oldest known African American-owned pest control company, and the late Willie Payne of Payne Pest Management who grew what is now the largest known African American-owned pest control company in the United States.
Caleb Wilkins started Wilkins Exterminators in 1946 and is the oldest black-owned pest control company in Washington, D.C. Wilkins Exterminators provided a full range of pest control services since its inception throughout the Washington D.C. metropolitan area.
Mr. Wilkins was a long-time friend and mentor of the late Robert Dixon of Dixon’s Termite and Pest Control. Robert Dixon was a 2009 PCT Crown Leadership Honoree and a strong advocate for the pest control industry in Washington D.C.
Willie Payne started Payne Pest Management in 2006 after 30 years of experience in the pest control industry. Working alongside his wife, Kathy, and son, Jason, he built Payne Pest Management into one of the largest pest control businesses in California, ranking #100 on the PCT Top 100 list.
“These companies embody the entrepreneurial spirit of the pest control industry and are pioneers that deserve to be recognized,” said Scott Steckel, President of NPMA. “Their leadership and contributions have served our industry well and are an encouragement to all.” says Steckel.
“As we reflect during Black History Month and the many achievements specific to our industry, it is inspiring to learn about what Mr. Wilkins, Mr. Dixon and Mr. Payne have contributed to the successes of the pest management industry,” said Dominique Stumpf, NPMA CEO. “We applaud these individuals as we continue to celebrate Black History Month and recognize the contributions of all our diverse membership.”
