In pest control, certifications aren’t just paperwork—they’re proof of trust, professionalism, and up-to-date knowledge.
At Complete Ground Control, we make sure our team is not only licensed but actively learning every year.
This week, owner Luke Buggert and the entire crew participated in the 2025 Minnesota Structural Pest Management Conference—a required certification event that helps pest professionals renew their licenses and stay informed on the newest tools, safety measures, and laws.
This year’s event was hosted online, allowing the team to dive into web-based seminars, quizzes, and virtual equipment showcases, all while staying connected to the industry’s most current practices.
What Is Pest Control Certification?
Pest control is a regulated profession in Minnesota.
To legally perform services like spraying pesticides, removing wildlife, and applying heat treatments, technicians must be certified in specific categories—and recertify annually.
Here’s what our team completed during this year’s certification process:
- Seminar-based learning on the latest pest identification and control strategies
- Safety and chemical application training for both people and pets
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM) methodology reviews
- Quizzes to assess understanding and retain official records of participation
- Recertification for each licensed category, both for individual techs and our business as a whole
| Certification Area | Training Purpose | Real-World Example |
|---|---|---|
| Pesticide Application | Safe, accurate use of chemicals | Avoiding overapplication |
| Pest Biology & ID | Recognizing pest behavior and cycles | Targeting bed bugs or ants |
| Equipment Best Practices | Proper usage and maintenance | Setting rodent bait stations |
Why It’s Not Just About Licensing It’s About Mastery
While certification is a requirement, we treat it like an opportunity.
At Complete Ground Control, we go beyond the minimum so that:
- Every tech understands how to apply products safely
- We’re always offering the most effective treatment plans
- We’re using tools and strategies that are cutting-edge—not outdated
- Clients receive consistent, compliant, and expert-level service
“We’re watching videos, seminars, and taking quizzes to get the latest and greatest in technology and tips and equipment,” Luke shared.
That knowledge filters into every service we offer, whether it’s removing bats, excluding rodents, or eliminating cockroaches.
Staying Up to Date Isn’t Optional It’s Essential
The pest control industry moves fast.
New invasive species arrive, pesticide regulations shift, and equipment gets smarter every year.
That’s why the Minnesota Structural Pest Management Conference is so valuable.
It helps technicians not only meet their legal requirements—but also adopt emerging technologies and smarter strategies that benefit homeowners directly.
Top Benefits of Staying Current:
- Safer treatments using modern formulas and application methods
- Better accuracy in identifying pest types and infestation stages
- More effective long-term prevention through advanced tools
- Environmentally conscious techniques with less chemical waste
- Improved trust and satisfaction from educated homeowners
Technology and Tools We Learned About
| Technology/Tool | What It Improves | How It Helps Clients |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Pest Monitoring | Real-time pest activity tracking | Early detection and fast action |
| HEPA Dust Systems | Safer allergen and pest cleanup | Cleaner indoor environments |
| Thermal Imaging Devices | Detect hidden pest nests or heat loss | Improves exclusion accuracy |
Behind the Scenes What Our Training Day Looked Like
This year’s certification was fully remote.
Rather than traveling, the team logged into the state-approved portal, where they participated in:
- Video-based learning modules
- Interactive Q&A sessions
- Industry updates from leading experts
- Final exams/quizzes for recertification credits
We treated it like any other workday: focused, thorough, and collaborative.
Throughout the day, we paused to review new strategies as a group, take notes on emerging pest problems, and identify training improvements we could apply directly to our service calls.
Why Clients Should Care About Certified Technicians
A licensed technician doesn’t just know how to use pest control tools—they know why, where, and how to use them safely.
When you hire Complete Ground Control, you’re hiring people who:
- Meet Minnesota state requirements
- Are trained in category-specific knowledge (not just general pest control)
- Have completed continued education hours this year
- Understand how to protect your family, property, and pets
Would you trust a non-certified plumber with your water lines?
Don’t trust your pest control to someone without current credentials.
Licensed vs. Unlicensed Service Providers
| Provider Type | What You Get | What You Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed & Certified | Expert care, safe treatment, legality | Long-term solutions, peace of mind |
| Unlicensed/Outdated | Cheap service, unsafe practices | Damage, re-infestation, violations |
Why We Think This Is Important
At Complete Ground Control, we’re not just pest guys—we’re professionals who take our role seriously.
That’s why we dedicate time, year after year, to make sure we’re:
- Licensed and legally compliant
- Educated in the newest pest control strategies
- Trained on the latest technology and best practices
- Working safely and responsibly on every property
Certification isn’t about hanging a piece of paper on the wall.
It’s about making sure you the homeowner get the best possible care, every time.
And that’s something we’re proud to commit to, year after year.
FAQs
What is pest control certification?
It’s the process of becoming and staying licensed to safely and legally perform pest control services. It includes training, testing, and continued education.
Why is annual recertification important?
Pest threats and treatment strategies evolve. Annual recertification ensures technicians stay informed and compliant with state and industry standards.
How do I know if a technician is certified?
Always ask! Certified technicians can provide proof of state licenses and continuing education. At Complete Ground Control, we’re happy to show ours.
Is Complete Ground Control certified for 2025?
Yes! Our business and every technician on staff has completed the 2025 Minnesota Structural Pest Management Conference training and recertification.
What happens if I hire someone unlicensed?
You risk poor service, unsafe chemical use, legal issues, and unresolved infestations. Unlicensed providers operate without oversight or accountability.
