Dole's Pest Controller Earns Prestigious Credential
Travis Helmstetler, Dole VA’s pest controller and contracting officer's representative (COR) for pest control, has recently earned the NPMA PRO Certified Credential from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA).
This achievement places Travis among the top pest management professionals in the nation, highlighting his commitment to excellence and public health protection.
“The NPMA PRO Certified Credential is a testament to our industry's dedication to high standards and best practices in pest management,” said Dominique Stumpf, CAE, CEO of NPMA. Travis is one of the first ten professionals in North America to earn this certification, reflecting his comprehensive expertise in safety protocols, regulatory compliance, customer service, and treatment methods.
Travis’s credentials extend far beyond his recent NPMA PRO certification. He holds an associate certified entomologist (ACE) certification along with a public health entomology (PHE) certificate from the Entomological Society of America. Additionally, he is licensed as a commercial pesticide applicator in both Kansas and Texas and is a professional registered sanitarian in Texas.
At Dole VA, Travis uses Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies to create a safe environment. IPM prioritizes pest prevention and least-toxic control methods, focusing on understanding pests’ life cycles, feeding habits, and habitat preferences. This approach not only enhances efficacy but also results in long-term cost savings and reduced environmental impact.
Addressing a drain fly infestation is a prime example of Travis’s effective IPM work. Using his knowledge of pest biology, Travis concluded a broken sewage pipe must be the source. Upon further inspection, Dole VA’s Facilities Management Service determined there was a broken pipe and, by repairing it, the infestation was eliminated, future issues were prevented, and the use of pesticides was minimized.
Travis’s role as COR involves performing monthly quality reviews to ensure pest control contractors adhere to industry standards. “Our key goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of our Veterans,” Travis stated. “Achieving the NPMA PRO certification validates the high standards we set at Dole VA. It's an honor to be recognized for our commitment to excellence in pest management.”
Travis uses consistent communication and dedication to educate the staff on pest prevention and control, making Dole VA a safer place for all.