Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders: The Impact of AEPMA’s Mentor Program
What does it take to develop the next generation of leaders in pest management? In this article, Envu Technical Sales Manager David Arnold reflects on his experience helping to establish and trial the AEPMA Mentor Program.
Following the AEPMA Conference in August 2025, I was approached by members of the AEPMA Committee to assist in establishing and trialling the AEPMA Mentor Program. The initiative was developed to strengthen the future of the professional pest management industry by connecting experienced industry leaders with emerging professionals and providing a framework for personal and professional development.
As part of the program, I was introduced to David Ford from Western Australia, and together we commenced our mentoring journey. From the outset, we focused on understanding each other’s experiences and identifying areas of strength and opportunities for further development.
One of the key components of the program was to openly discuss strengths, weaknesses and aspirations before establishing clear objectives over three different time horizons:
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1-year goals – focusing on immediate priorities, skill development and short-term achievements.
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3-year goals – identifying opportunities for career growth, leadership development and industry involvement.
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5-year goals – considering longer term ambitions and defining what success would look like both professionally and personally.
Throughout the process, the mentoring relationship provided valuable opportunities to share knowledge, discuss challenges and learn from different perspectives within our industry. The experience reinforced the importance of continuous learning and highlighted the value that strong professional relationships bring to both individuals and the broader pest management sector.
Programs such as the AEPMA Mentor Program play an important role in developing future industry leaders and fostering a culture of collaboration and knowledge sharing.
While the program was initially established as a trial, it has demonstrated the significant benefits that mentoring can provide, not only to mentees but also to mentors themselves.
Reflecting on the experience, I have found the journey with David to be both rewarding and enjoyable. Watching goals evolve into achievements and seeing personal confidence and professional capability grow has highlighted the true value of mentorship.
As our industry continues to evolve, investing in people and supporting the next generation of professionals will remain essential. The AEPMA Mentor Program represents an important step in ensuring the Australian pest management industry continues to develop strong leaders, encourage collaboration and maintain the high standards upon which our profession is built.
It has been an honour to be involved in the program from its inception and to contribute to the trial phase. Personally, I have found the experience extremely rewarding. Seeing David’s growth throughout the program, his willingness to embrace challenges and his continued development as a professional has been a highlight of the journey. I am excited to see what the future holds for David and have no doubt that he will continue to make a positive contribution to both the industry and those around him.
I would also like to acknowledge the AEPMA Committee for their vision in establishing the Mentor Program. Initiatives such as this ensure that the knowledge, experience and professionalism that have shaped our industry continue to be passed on to the next generation of pest management professionals.
“When mentors and mentees work together, the whole industry moves forward.” - David Arnold
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