Our History
Our mission is to promote the standards and ethics of the industry, provide ongoing education for the pest control industry including the advancement of research and to cooperate with government authorities and education institutions for the good of the community and the pest control industry.
GPCA started in 1950 with 16 members. In 1985 it had grown to 250 companies. In 2004 more than 700 pest control companies are active members in the state-wide association. Representing 85% of the operators in the state, GPCA has a larger “market-share” than any other state pest control association.
Pest control has a huge economic impact on our state. We are a major employer and an integral part of schools operations, commercial establishments, and home management. GPCA is understandably proud of its long, rich history as a partner with the consumers, and law-makers of Georgia.
We started out with leaders focused on professionalism. It remains our focus to this day.
Incorporated
January 1, 1950
The Georgia Pest Control Association was incorporated in 1950 with 16 original members. New chemicals and technology that had been used in World War II were fostering a new wave.
Structural Pest Control Act
January 1, 1955
In 1955 the Georgia General Assembly passed the Structural Pest Control Act which provided the framework for regulating the pest control industry. The primary concerns were: Protect the public from.
University of Georgia Partnership
January 1, 1957
The Georgia Pest Control Association was eager to promote professionalism in the industry and to this end started working with the University of Georgia to hold an annual “short course.”
Office Official
January 1, 1989
For many many years, GPCA was run from the guest bedroom of Executive Director Glenn Burnnett’s Atlanta home. When Burnett retired in 1985, the association hired Valera Jessee.
Expansion
January 1, 1999
In 1999, the association moved into its own 3600-square-foot office building, complete with a training facility.
Leadership
Valera Jesse was Executive Director until 2014. Connie Rogers filled this role from 2014-2020. Kelly McLendon took the lead from 2021 - Feb 2024.
Glenda Lehmberg took the position of Executive Director effective March 26, 2024.
Past Presidents
Past Presidents are listed in chronological order with the most recent year first.
