May 28, 2026 | Community News, Good Deed Team
Teammates from Northwest Good Deed Team and our sister brand Orkin visited Cane Ridge Elementary School in Antioch, TN, to give students a glimpse into the world of pest control management during the school’s Career Day. Teammates were proud to introduce students to the endless opportunities within the pest industry and help them understand how pest professionals protect homes and communities.
Students were excited to learn about the pest industry, asking questions about everything from training required to enter the field to the tools and equipment used on the job. Some even wanted to know more personal details, like each teammate’s favorite bug. This type of engagement brought smiles to students and teammates and served as a reminder of how something as simple as talking about their day-to-day lives can truly make a difference in the lives of others. No Career Day would be complete without a hands-on experience, and the show-and-tell display did not disappoint. Students were fascinated by a variety of taxidermized animals, including a groundhog, otter, and armadillo. However, the hornet’s nest quickly became the star of the show, drawing the most attention. Students also had the opportunity to take home some fun Northwest items, including snacks and sunglasses, giving them a fun reminder of the day.
For Northwest and Orkin teammates, the partnership was an example of the power of collaboration and of inspiring the next generation. While pest control might not be the first career that comes to mind, many of our teammates talk to how a career in pest control is really a career serving people. By bringing together shared expertise and a passion for service, the teams created memorable experiences that inspired students to think differently about future career possibilities.
May 22, 2026 | Community News, Company News, Good Deed Team
Families across Georgia will have the essential items they need to provide for the youngest members of their families thanks to the help of Northwest Exterminating teammates and other volunteers from across the state. Nearly a dozen dedicated Northwest teammates helped distribute more than 500,000 diapers, wipes, pull-ups, adult underwear, and feminine hygiene products to help families in need. These items will go to the unhoused community or families that are on the brink of homelessness. Greg Green and Kristen Milligan, co-directors of the Northwest Good Deed Team, were also there with the ‘Chillin and Grillin’ grill trailer to provide lunch for all the volunteers.
On May 8, nearly a dozen teammates met in the parking lot of HomeAid Georgia loading stacks of boxes into the vehicles of more than 40 non-profit organizations as they drove through to pick up their pre-arranged supplies. Many of the recipients spoke about the impact the drive has on the communities they serve. “These essentials bring stability and allow moms to focus on other essentials that they need to spend their money on; these diapers make a huge difference,” said a representative from Well Root Family Services. Recipients used words like “wonderful,” “amazing,” and “exciting,” to describe the day but the word we heard most was “blessed.” You could see the gratitude and relief on their faces as they picked up their items. Some nonprofit representatives traveled from as far as Albany, GA., proof of just how great the need is within our local communities. Teammates are always thankful for opportunities to serve, and the recipient feedback was a powerful reminder of Northwest’s true reason behind why we’re in the “bug business: to care for people. This year’s Essentials Drive took a different approach. Instead of collecting items, 27 teams donated money, allowing HomeAid to purchase essentials at wholesale and maximize impact. Northwest contributed more than $2,000 to support the effort.
2026 marks 25 years of the Essentials Drive for HomeAid Georgia, and Northwest has been a proud partner for more than 20 of those years. This partnership is just another great example of what’s possible when organizations share a common goal of supporting members of our community facing the greatest challenges, and a true testament to teammates who show up time and again, ready to jump into action with a servant’s heart and show how much they truly care.
Our Northwest teams look forward to the continued partnership with HomeAid Georgia. If you would like to learn more and further support this incredible organization, please visit https://www.homeaidga.org/.
May 15, 2026 | Company News, Teammate Celebration
Growth isn’t always linear. Sometimes, it comes in unexpected shapes and sizes, through opportunities you never saw coming. For Kathryn Smith, Administrative Operations Manager at Northwest, this has been the most surprising and rewarding part of her journey. Those unexpected moments have offered invaluable lessons, broadened her perspective, and opened her eyes to new possibilities. As she puts it, “Perspective creates possibility.”
Kathryn’s Northwest story began in 2015, when she walked into a Service Center to apply for an Administrative Professional role. From the very first moment, the sense of family and community stood out. Even during the interview, she felt completely comfortable being herself – a rare and refreshing experience. “I knew this place was different,” she shared. “I wanted to be part of it.” That initial feeling of belonging only deepened after she joined the team. The culture, rooted in inclusivity and support, became a driving force that kept her moving forward. At Northwest, everyone has a place.
Over the years, Northwest has consistently bet on Kathryn, offering her opportunities to grow and thrive. Every role and promotion has been a leap of faith, a testament to the company’s belief in her potential. “They’ve continued to believe in me, and because of that, I’ll continue to show up and fight for the Mouse,” she said. This unwavering support has allowed her to pursue her passion for Administration and look ahead with excitement to all that’s still to come.
When asked what advice she’d share with someone just starting out, Kathryn’s words are both practical and inspiring. “Stay the path,” she said. “Focus on excelling at the basics. When you consistently own your craft, people notice. That’s how you quietly become a leader – to yourself and to those around you.”
She also emphasized the importance of resilience and growth in the face of challenges. “Own the ‘No.’ When you’re ready for more, you won’t always hear ‘yes.’ Learn to own the no. That’s where you grow – maturely, intentionally, and with resilience. Ask yourself: How can I grow so that next time, the answer becomes yes?”
Finally, Kathryn offered a reminder to stay true to yourself. “Love your ‘you.’ Your words matter. Learn to say the hard things and speak your truth – but always kindly and for the right reasons.”
Kathryn’s journey is a powerful reflection of what makes Northwest extraordinary: a culture that fosters growth, a community that feels like family, and a belief in the potential of every individual. Her story is a reminder that growth isn’t just about climbing a ladder – it’s about embracing every twist, turn, and unexpected opportunity along the way.
Click here to find out your team’s wellness score.
May 15, 2026 | Community News, Community/Events, Company News, Good Deed Team
Students and teachers at Shadow Rock Elementary School received a special treat when Northwest Exterminating teammates rolled in with the Chillin’ & Grillin’ grill on May 7. Teammates hosted a special Teacher Appreciation and 5th Grade Recognition lunch, serving burgers and hot dogs to honor hard working educators and the achievements of students preparing for their next big step of graduating to middle school. For many teachers, they were aware that Northwest was planning something, but they didn’t know just how big the outpouring of love and appreciation would be.
“I thought we were just going to have a few snacks,” said school psychologist Dr. Terri Blake. “When I saw the burgers and hot dogs, I thought, ‘Oh, they really love us.’ This is the type of school climate that I’m enjoying being in.”
The impact was just as meaningful for students. Fifth graders felt special and were proud to be recognized for their hard work. Younger students passed by noticing the special lunch set up, and many asked why they couldn’t join the celebration. Teammates were quick to encourage them, reminding students that if they continue to get good grades, they will get the same special treatment when they’re in the 5th grade.
Moments like these create a ripple effect. As Dr. Blake shared, “It makes the long days go faster. Our students are used to being supported and celebrated. I’m hoping they’ll see us being loved on and appreciate us a bit more and then its full circle, happier teachers mean happier students.”
For Northwest teammates, the day was just as uplifting; opportunities like this go beyond service. It’s about taking the initiative to make a difference in the lives of others and creating moments that remind people that they are appreciated.
Educators pour into the next generation every single day, and small gestures can make a lasting impact. Everyone has the ability to brighten a teacher’s day. We encourage everyone to take an extra moment to show appreciation for those making a difference around you!
May 8, 2026 | Teammate Celebration
Northwest teammates Ana Nedio, Broward, FL Office Manager, and Erica Tucker, Region 1 Regional Administrative Leader, have been named recipients of the 2026 NPMA Impact Award for Women in Pest Management, a recognition that celebrates their leadership, dedication, and commitment to putting people first.
Both teammates were nominated because of how they not only embody our Service Standards to their teammates but also to their customers and communities.
Ana Nedio: Leading Through Listening and Care
Ana Nedio is widely known for her ability to mentor, coach, and genuinely connect with others. Ana creates an environment where teammates feel comfortable bringing both professional challenges and personal concerns to the table. She offers guidance, encouragement, and support. Whether it means staying late or stepping out of the office to help someone through a difficult moment, Ana consistently shows up for her team.Her strength in active listening extends beyond teammates to customers as well. When a frustrated customer considered canceling their contract due to a service issue, Ana saw this as a golden opportunity to turn the situation around by constantly communicating with the customer. The customer was grateful for Ana’s involvement and walked away feeling heard and valued—ultimately deciding to continue their service with Northwest.
Ana’s leadership also shines in the way she approaches her weekly team meetings. Ana creates a space where teammates feel comfortable asking questions and sharing ideas. Her meetings also serve as a pulse check on the team, giving her insight into how teammates are doing both professionally and personally. She is intentional about making sure every teammate leaves with clarity, confidence, and the tools they need to succeed.
Ana’s leadership is a reflection of Northwest’s Service Standard #6 Genuinely Listen. Her dedication to being a pillar of support is a great example of what it means to create meaningful connections that make a difference and ensure customers and teammates feel valued.
Erica Tucker: Bringing People Together with Purpose
Erica Tucker has a gift for bringing people together and creating a sense of belonging across her region. Known for her thoughtful leadership style, she goes beyond traditional management by fostering connection and collaboration among teammates.
Her quarterly manager meetings in Region 1 are anything but ordinary. Erica blends creativity and fun with purposeful discussion, creating an environment where teammates feel energized, valued, and inspired. It’s not just about goals and growth numbers; it’s about building relationships and recognizing the people behind the work. She makes it a priority to visit each service center in her region every month. Her presence has a profound impact on her team. During her visits she’s available to any teammate who wants to talk to her. Whether celebrating successes or working through challenges, Erica ensures every teammate knows they have someone in their corner.
Behind the scenes, Erica’s impact is just as meaningful. One of her greatest strengths is her ability to track and analyze key data points that help teams grow and support one another more effectively. She has developed systems to track sales cross-promotion, office administrative performance, and community outreach—bringing clarity and structure that allows teams to scale with intention.
Erica’s leadership is a reflection of Northwest’s Service Standard #18 Make it better. Her dedication to improving the internal and external experiences we create by bringing people together and striving to be better helps strengthen Northwest’s culture.
Ana and Erica’s recognition as 2026 NPMA Impact Award recipients is a testament to the power of putting people first. Their stories remind us that leadership isn’t just about the titles we hold, but the intentionality we bring to every conversation and the systems we build to support one another. As we celebrate their incredible achievements, let’s all take a page from their book: lean into active listening, lead with genuine care, and always look for ways to make our teammates and customers feel truly valued.
Please join us in congratulating Ana and Erica for setting the standard and showing us all what it means to lead with purpose.
