WIPM NEW ZEALAND COMMITTEE

AIMEE MCBEAN Company or Business*

Bugs Gone Pest Control

Mum of three and wife to Craig. I run our small pest management business in Cambridge, New Zealand. I am a Master registered technician for the Pest Management Association of NZ and hold the NZ Cert in Pest Operations (Urban Pest Control). Passionate about all things pest control, protecting our native plants and wildlife. Love spending time with whanau, friends and getting rid of possums!

Why do you support WIPM? Why did you decide to take on this role.*

Supporting women in a male -dominated roles is important for any industry if we want diversity. If I can support someone new to the industry with information or advice which might help them going forward then that's a win for everyone. I also want to make more connections within the NZ Pest Management family for my own benefit.

NIKKI DE RENZY Company or Business*

Economic Pest Control Limited

I am a Zimbabwean who emigrated to Australia and ended up in New Zealand - so pretty much a Southern Hemispherian! I thought I had cleverly arranged early retirement from my very busy role in a large law firm but my partner Mike needed help mid-2020 to run his urban pest management business. I knew how to manage and organise things but knew surprisingly little about pests. So while getting the business on track with administration, I also went out in the field and took on formal training - qualifying last year. The business grew hugely from 2020 to date and we took on a Technician for field work giving Mike more opportunity to expand the business even more. I run the Administration, the Scheduling and Reporting, the Accounting and the Health & Safety. I enjoy having a good relationship and communication with our clients and helping solve issues quickly. I also love going out with Mike and investigating complicated issues - especially ants, clever little things! Never did I realise pests were so interesting.

Why do you support WIPM? Why did you decide to take on this role.*

Historically Pest Management has been a very male dominated career. However more and more women are making it their career choice. WIPM is a much needed support group, a safe place to ask questions, share work moments and learn. The energy of the team is infectious (in the best way) and the recognition and support is so encouraging to all.