Dec 30, 2025 | Company News
At Northwest, our growth is measured not just by the communities we serve, but by the people we empower. We believe that building extraordinary leaders is the foundation of providing extraordinary service. Investing in our team is a core part of who we are, ensuring our people are supported, challenged, and prepared to lead with confidence.
That is why we are so proud to celebrate our newest graduates of the Region Manager Development Program (RMDP). This significant milestone is a direct reflection of the dedication, character, and immense potential of these teammates. Please join us in congratulating:
- Bart Sloan, District Manager
- James Nelson, Region Manager
- Allen Woosley, Commercial Services Director
- Billy Matthews, Region Manager
- David Cogan, Region Manager
- Emily Garcia, Service Center Manager
Their achievement marks the culmination of a year of intensive growth, and we are thrilled to recognize their commitment.
What is the Region Manager Development Program?
The Region Manager Development Program is an immersive, 12-month leadership journey created for leaders throughout our Family of Brands. Selected participants are teammates who oversee multiple business units or departments, or those who have been identified as having the potential to step into that next level of responsibility.
RMDP was launched in 2018 as a direct result of our company-wide talent review process within our parent company, Rollins, Inc. It was designed to support our long-term strategic growth by identifying and nurturing key talent capable of leading at the next level. Since its inception, 143 senior leaders have graduated from the program, continuing to make a meaningful impact across our entire organization.
A Career-Defining Leadership Experience
RMDP is far more than traditional training. It provides a blended learning approach that combines theory with real-world application, ensuring our leaders are not just learning concepts but actively practicing them. The program includes:
- Facilitator-Led Training: Expert-led sessions on advanced leadership principles.
- Executive and Peer Mentoring: Direct guidance from seasoned executives and collaboration with peers.
- Immersive Field Learning: Hands-on experiences that connect classroom learning to daily operations.
- 360-Degree Leadership Assessments: In-depth feedback from managers, peers, and direct reports to foster self-awareness.
- Executive Coaching: A six-month engagement with a professional coach for personalized guidance.
- Personalized Development Plans: Customized roadmaps for growth supported throughout the program.
This comprehensive structure ensures our leaders receive the feedback, support, and practical experience they need to thrive.
A highlight of the RMDP journey is the capstone experience, where participants take what they’ve learned and put it into action. This year’s class traveled to Disney World for a three-day, hands-on team competition across three of its iconic parks. The event challenged them to collaborate under pressure, think creatively, and approach every interaction with a customer-first mindset.
But beyond the adventure and the competition, the capstone is about our teammates’ growth. Graduates demonstrated leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving at the highest level. During the graduation ceremony, attended by their families, Brand Presidents, and members of the Executive Leadership Team, leaders from each brand shared their key takeaways, reflecting on the personal and professional development they achieved throughout the program. The winning team was announced, and each graduate received their official RMDP plaque—celebrating not just the experience, but the incredible growth and dedication of our teammates.
Celebrating Northwest’s Commitment to Leadership
We are incredibly proud of Bart, James, Allen, Billy, David, and Emily for completing the rigorous RMDP program and investing in their personal and professional development. Their achievement demonstrates a powerful commitment to excellence and a readiness to lead with purpose, a people-first mentality, and a desire to serve and make a difference for the people around them.
Programs like RMDP are a testament to what makes Northwest different. We care deeply about our teammates, we invest in their professional development, and we believe that pouring into our incredible people is how we continue to deliver the experiences we strive to be known for within the communities we serve. By providing opportunities, support, and trust, we hope to empower our teammates to create extraordinary experiences.
Congratulations to our newest RMDP graduates! Your hard work inspires us all, and we are excited to see how you will continue to lead, innovate, and make a positive impact across the entire Northwest family.
Dec 30, 2025 | Company News
John Dellapina, Account Executive within our East Cobb Georgia office, is officially retiring after nearly 26 years with Northwest Exterminating, leaving behind a legacy built on relationships, dedication, and decades of stories.
As he steps into retirement, John says he’s most looking forward to slowing down and relaxing. He’s excited to spend more time with his wife and grandchildren, savoring moments that busy schedules once pushed to the sidelines. Still, leaving Northwest isn’t easy. After more than a quarter century, it’s been his home away from home.
“I’m going to miss the daily routine, but I’m really going to miss the people the most,” John shared. “I’m a people person; I just like being around people.”
Known for his great sense of humor, John proudly describes himself as “old school” in the best way. He prefers paperwork over computers and is often teased about his extensive archive of old files; but when systems go down or someone needs an original document, teammates know exactly where to turn.
“Thanks to John, I know now never to toss contracts. He’s been building a paper empire for 20+ years! If you ever need a contract from 2005, he’s your guy!” Jamie Williams, Sales Support Associate.
John’s deep knowledge and long history with the company have made him a walking archive of Northwest Exterminating. Even during a health scare, he never lost his trademark humor, continuing to crack jokes and lift the spirits of those around him.
One of the many meaningful connections John made during his career was with Chuck Negas, Director of Commercial Development. Recognizing John’s strong relationships, especially with real estate agents—Chuck encouraged him to transition into Commercial Sales, knowing he would thrive.
“John was well liked and clients trusted him,” Chuck shared. “He also set a good example for newer salespeople. He was always willing to help and was supportive of everyone he worked with, John never forgot that we were a team.”
John often fondly recalls the trio he formed with close friends Peter Schmidt and Tommy Hubert, along with the practical jokes, laughter, and camaraderie that defined so many of his days. John also likes to remind people that when he was hired, he walked through the door with a $3,000 termite contract under his belt, and he never looked back.
Over the years, John built lasting connections with customers and teammates alike, relationships that made his career especially meaningful
John Dellapina will be deeply missed by teammates across Northwest Exterminating. His stories, humor, reliability, and heart have left a lasting mark, and his impact will be felt long after he clocks out for the final time. Thank you, John, for sharing 25+ years with us!
Dec 30, 2025 | Company News
Barry Teubert, Service Center Manager in Hixson, GA., began his career with Northwest 28 years ago with a simple goal: to learn more about the pest control industry. What kept him here all these years, however, was something even more meaningful: the people and the culture.
Throughout his career, Barry wore many hats. As a Service Center Manager, he inspired teammates, solved customer challenges with a steady smile, and ensured exceptional service was delivered day in and day out. Leadership and teaching others came naturally to Barry, and his influence has been felt across the company for nearly three decades.
While the work was meaningful, Barry’s career was also filled with plenty of humor. One story still makes him laugh:
“Every time I hear the joke, ‘I don’t have to outrun the bear, I only have to outrun you,’ it reminds me of the time Pete Schmidt, and I had to outrun two Rottweilers that chased us to our truck. I only had to outrun Pete—and I did.”
Pete Schmidt, Vice President of Specialty Services, hired Barry back in 1997 when Pete was the Service Center Manager at the Smyrna Service Center. Pete said one of the things he’ll miss most about Barry is his contagious energy, get it done attitude, and constant competitive spirit.
“Barry was a man who stood by his word. If he said it, you could consider it done. I had to bring my A-game every day when working with Barry; he made me better. “ said Pete
Pete was not the only person who noticed Barry’s dedication and performance. Over the years, Barry earned Salesman of the Year four times, was named Teammate of the Year, and received the company’s highest honor, the L.A. Phillips Award. These achievements reflect the respect and admiration he earned from teammates along the way.
Beyond awards and accomplishments, Barry says the most rewarding part of his leadership journey has been watching teammates grow, buying their first homes, getting married, and welcoming children into their lives. Family has always been important to Barry and as he enters retirement, he’s excited to devote 100% of his time to his loved ones, embrace his hobbies, and simply enjoy life.
As Barry prepares for this next chapter, he leaves his Northwest family with one final piece of advice:
“Change is good. Learn from everyone—the good and the bad. Be open to growing and challenge yourself daily.”
Thank you, Barry, for 28 years of leadership, laughter, and lasting impact. Your legacy at Northwest Exterminating will continue through the many lives you’ve influenced.
Nov 4, 2025 | Company News
If you’ve ever attended a Northwest Exterminating event or an event where Northwest might be in attendance, chances are you’ve seen Chuck Negas, Director of Commercial Development, behind the camera capturing smiles, teamwork, and special moments that tell the story from that day. But on October 14, the tables turned when Chuck found himself in front of the lens for a change.
Chuck was recognized as the very first recipient of the “Friends of the Industry” Award, presented by Ghertner & Company at their Second Annual Invitational in Nashville, Tennessee.
This year Chuck was asked to provide photography services, capturing team photos throughout the day so that participants will be able to take home a memory of the day’s events. Chuck happily accepted the opportunity, always eager to support partners and strengthen relationships.
Midway through the event, Chuck was called to the front as Ghertner’s leaders began sharing their appreciation for Northwest Exterminating’s partnership, including details about Chuck’s dedication, dependability, and personal commitment to service. To his complete surprise, they presented him with an award, honoring his professionalism, collaboration, and genuine care for their team.
When asked about the award and what it meant to him, Chuck stated, “I was totally shocked, but mostly, I was very humbled by it and proud as well! Just to be able to get Northwest’s name mentioned and recognized in front of such a large audience. I really enjoy what I do, and the opportunity to meet and build relationships with such incredible people.”
This recognition is more than an individual achievement; it’s a reflection of Northwest’s dedication to building strong, lasting relationships rooted in trust, respect, and genuine friendship.
“Relationship building is not about somebody that goes out and tries to get a fast sale.” Said Chuck. “People have to see and understand that you’re there to serve them. They need to know how much you care – that’s what it is all about, care.”
Chuck’s recognition stands as a testament to what happens when dedication meets authenticity. His unwavering commitment to serving others embodies the Northwest Way – where relationships come before sales, and every partnership is built to last.
Congratulations, Chuck! We’re proud to see you honored for the same care and service you bring to every interaction both behind and in front of the camera.
Jul 10, 2025 | Company News
Teammates at Northwest Exterminating’s Team Support Center found the perfect way to jumpstart the week after a long holiday weekend by bringing back the fun with a Summer Field Day!
The event kicked off with a spirited game of tug-of-war, setting the tone for an afternoon filled with energy and laughter. From inflatable bowling to an egg drop challenge and a classic tin toss, teammates rotated through a series of fun and quirky games that kept the momentum going. Greg Green and Kristen Milligan with the Good Deed Team provided hamburgers and hot dogs with all the fixings.
While the food and games were a hit, it was the fellowship that truly stood out. Events like these offer a chance for teammates to connect beyond daily responsibilities, fostering stronger relationships and team spirit. It’s an opportunity to interact with colleagues from different departments.
This Summer Field Day was the latest edition of Monday Mingle, a bi-monthly tradition that mixes food, fun, and friendly rivalry. From trivia contests to “finish the lyrics” battles, each Monday Mingle offers something new. This time, the event was hosted by some of the youngest members of the team. Their enthusiasm and creativity added an extra layer of excitement to the festivities, reminding everyone that a little fun goes a long way in building a stronger team.
Summer is off to a bright start at the Team Support Center—and thanks to events like these, so is the team spirit that makes Northwest such a special place to work.
Mar 22, 2025 | Community News, Company News
The Catoosa County Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose dedication and service have left a lasting impact on the local community. This year, two outstanding leaders—Marilyn M. Helms and Lee Tubbs—have been honored for their significant contributions to business, education, and community service.
Marilyn Helms: A Legacy in Education & Leadership
Marilyn Helms retired in December 2024 after an impressive 25-year career at Dalton State College, where she served as Dean of the Wright School of Business. Her leadership was instrumental in securing AACSB Business Program Accreditation, overseeing a $10 million renovation of Gignilliat Hall, and launching a bachelor’s degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
Beyond higher education, Helms has played a vital role in community health initiatives, serving as Chair of the CHI Memorial Board, where she has been a driving force behind bringing a new hospital to the region. Her dedication to both education and healthcare exemplifies a true commitment to community betterment.
Lee Tubbs: A Pioneer in the Pest Control Industry
A respected leader in the pest control industry, Lee Tubbs founded Enviroguard Pest Solutions in 1997 with a mission centered on quality, integrity, and service. His company quickly became known for its exceptional service and dedication to customer satisfaction.
A former Catoosa Chamber Board Chair, Lee’s impact extended far beyond his business. He recently merged Enviroguard with Northwest Exterminating, ensuring the company’s continued growth and extraordinary service in pest management. His decades of industry leadership also earned him a well-deserved induction into the Georgia Pest Control Association Hall of Fame. At Northwest, we are proud to honor Lee’s legacy and celebrate his contributions to both our company and the communities we serve.
Alongside his wife, Lee has been a fixture in the community, embodying a spirit of service that goes beyond business. Together, they have built a reputation for customer-first values and a commitment to giving back—principles that have guided their success over the years.
A Lasting Legacy
Both Marilyn Helms and Lee Tubbs have profoundly shaped Catoosa County, leaving legacies that will be felt for generations to come. Whether in education, business, or community leadership, their extraordinary contributions have made the region a better place to live and work.
We celebrate Marilyn and Lee’s incredible achievements and look forward to seeing how they continue to inspire and impact the community in the years ahead!
Feb 24, 2025 | Company News
At Northwest Exterminating, our mission is simple: to create healthier living and working environments for homes and businesses. Every team across our organization is dedicated to making a positive impact by offering innovative, green services with extraordinary care.
This year, we are excited to announce that the Cullman team has been honored with the Quality Assurance Team of the Year award for their extraordinary commitment to quality service. The Cullman team achieved remarkable quality scores throughout the year, setting the bar for excellence in the pest control industry.
The team is truly honored to receive this recognition, reflecting the positive and supportive work culture they’ve built, where both customers and teammates are deeply valued. This award celebrates teams that prioritize safety, innovation, and exceptional service—and the Cullman team exemplifies these values while upholding every one of Northwest’s service standards in all that they do.
Joshua Bell, Cullman Service Center Supervisor, couldn’t be more thrilled about the team’s accomplishments. “At Northwest Exterminating, our Service Standards guide us to be extraordinary in every way. The Cullman Team has shown incredible dedication and hard work to embody what it means to be extraordinary. I’m incredibly proud of every team member, both in the field and in the office, for earning this well-deserved recognition.”
The Cullman team continues to set an inspiring example for all of us at Northwest. Their commitment to extraordinary service and dedication to both customers and teammates are qualities we all strive to embody. We are immensely grateful for the impact they’ve made and look forward to seeing their continued success.
Dec 19, 2024 | Company News
At Northwest, we’re all about recognizing the hard work and dedication of our extraordinary teammates, and this year we’re thrilled to celebrate Chad Gilbert, who has been named PCT’s 2024 Residential Teammate of the Year! We sat down with Chad to ask him a few questions about this honor, his journey at Northwest, and his advice for others. Here’s what he had to say!
How did you feel when you found out that you won PCT’s Residential Teammate of the Year award?
Chad: I was honestly very surprised and shocked! It felt really good that Northwest recognized me and took the time to send my application to represent the company and team. I’ve always looked to give my best at everything I do, but I never expected to be highlighted like this.
What made you choose to be a part of Northwest initially?
Chad: I was looking for a company that genuinely cares about their people. At Northwest, it’s not just about getting the job done. It’s about growing with each other and making sure everyone feels valued, both teammates and customers. Northwest’s vision for growth has always been a big factor for me too, there’s always room to learn and enhance in my role. Northwest offers that, and I’m grateful to be here.
What is your favorite Northwest Service Standard and why?
Chad: Definitely Customers First. Our customers count on us to deliver extraordinary service every single day. If we didn’t have them, Northwest wouldn’t be here, plain and simple. Customers First standard also honors our teammates too – because delivering extraordinary service takes extraordinary people to keep Customers for Life. When you put customers first, you’re also lifting everyone on the team to do what’s right.
What advice would you give others looking to join our industry?
Chad: I’d say, treat everyone the way you want to be treated, whether it’s customers, teammates, or anyone you interact with. This industry is all about relationships, so kindness and respect go a long way. Also, don’t get comfortable in one position, keep pushing yourself to grow. Growth might be uncomfortable at times, but that’s where you can find strength.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing?
Chad: I love attending festivals and cosplay conventions – it’s a great way to unwind and meet people with similar interests! I also film videos for my friend’s tribute bands, which is a fun creative outlet for me. It’s different from what I do day-to-day, and it gives me a chance to be involved in something artistic and community focused.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
Chad: I’d like to step into a safety role within quality assurance. I really enjoy helping people and making sure everyone has the tools they need to do their best work, all while being safe for their team, family, and community. I would love the opportunity to support teammates, encouraging them and supporting their growth so they too can find a path and home at Northwest.
Chad’s dedication to his work, team, and community truly exemplifies what it means to be a Northwest teammate. Congratulations again, Chad, and thank you for all that you do to make Northwest a place of extraordinary service and opportunity!
May 11, 2023 | Company News
Each year, the National Pest Management Association celebrates women in the industry with the Impact Awards. In 2023, Northwest saw four of our teammates nominated and four of our teammates be honored with this Award.
The Impact Awards honor and celebrate exceptional women at all levels within the pest management industry, in any role, including management, technical/service, sales, or office staff. What is unique about Northwest’s four recipients is that each joined the Northwest Family from an acquisition. We are thankful for teammates like Andrea, Chrystal, Stephanie, and Mercedes for all they do to make Northwest, Northwest. Below we share more about what makes each of these four honorees extraordinary!
Andrea Arrieta, Region 12
Andrea joined the Northwest Family in 2021 and is currently the Regional Administrator for our South Florida region. Andrea personifies the Northwest Service Standards of Initiative, Open to Growth, and Embrace Change. When joining the Northwest team, she took on an interesting, dual role throughout a brand and company transition. She took on this challenge with grace, learning and shaping procedures to support her Northwest team and customers. She is patient, helpful, and understanding, consistently looking for opportunities to make processes better. Andrea completed Northwest’s Leadership Experience in 2023.
Teammates from across the region look to her for guidance and coaching. She has embraced her new role, with teammates from across the region celebrating all she has done and continues to do for others around her. She is an extraordinary addition to the Northwest Family!
Chrystal McCoy, Team Support Center
Chrystal joined the Northwest Family in 2021. She was in the pest control industry for over 20 years prior, developing a wealth of knowledge, relationships, and industry experience. Previously in an Office Manager role, Chrystal had a vast understanding of service software and office procedures that the Northwest team quickly wanted to elevate and celebrate. She embraced a new role, Operations Support Specialist, in 2022, which allowed her the unique opportunity to split her talents between operations, information technology, and accounting needs. Chrystal completed Northwest’s Leadership Experience in 2023.
Chrystal’s software understanding has been leaned on heavily throughout several brand transitions in 2022 and 2023. She embodies the Northwest Service Standards of Honor Our Teammates, Communication, Embrace Change, and Initiative. She is consistent, supportive, and a problem solver. All who know her know she is someone they can rely on. She is always looking for ways to improve herself and others around her. Chrystal makes a difference with every project she supports, and Northwest is made better with her as a teammate!
Stephanie Hill, Region 12
Stephanie joined the Northwest Family in 2021. She has previously held leadership positions within the Rollins Family of Brands and currently serves as Northwest’s Regional Director. Stephanie took on the opportunity to grow the Northwest brand with an acquisition in South Florida. With Stephanie’s PhD in Urban Entomology, she brings a firm technical understanding while also being a leader who is supportive, growth-focused, and attentive. Stephanie completed Northwest’s Leadership Experience in 2023.
Stephanie leads Northwest’s Region 12 teammates through the various procedural, operational, and brand changes with a steadfast consistency and confidence that all appreciate. She is an extraordinary example of WOW with Pride and Professionalism, Embrace Change, and Celebrate. Northwest is thankful for Stephanie’s care for others and continued leadership.
Mercedes Moreno, Region 12
Mercedes joined the Northwest Family in 2021 and is currently the Office Manager for our Miami Gardens Service Center. Mercedes has been and continues to be an integral part of MiamiGarden’s success. She consistently looks for ways to bring her team together and work toward the common goal of a successful service center. She leads by example, offering her kindness and patience to those around her and to those who need it most. She is also a 2023 Northwest Leadership Experience graduate. Her teammates are quick to recognize not only how she embraces any type of change but also how she takes the time to help those around her with it too. Mercedes is an extraordinary example and embodiment of Northwest’s Service Standards, Servant’s Heart, Open to Growth, and Embrace Change.
No matter who is asked, every teammate will agree that she is a joy to work with! Northwest is grateful for the consistent commitment and professionalism Mercedes brings to the Northwest Family.
To learn more about the National Pest Management’s Association’s Impact Award winners from across the United States, including Northwest’s four extraordinary teammates, you can read more at the NPMA’s website.
