JESS — Technician, Guardian of Civilization
Most techs can tell you what they treated. They can even tell you what they used. But can they tell you why they did, or what the key observations were?
Technicians are often trained in the field, and are shown what products to use for the given situation. But do they know how, when, and why to pivot when thrown a curveball?
This is the foundation of the whole Guardian program, and it involves moving with intention. Or, you could say, knowing enough about all aspects of pest control to notice the important things without even thinking about it.
The first chapter of the Guardian of Civilization program teaches you how to see what others don’t see. Not every pest issue is simple, or cut-and-dry. You need to master WWHWW. (whoa whoa, hold on, wait what?) Yep. WWHWW.
WHO is it? Identification first. Not "ants." Which ants? The treatment changes, the biology changes, the conducive conditions change.
WHY is it there? Something is feeding them, watering them, or sheltering them. Usually all three.
HOW did it get in? Find the path. A gap, a grade, a branch touching the roof.
WHERE did it come from? Yes, it’s there. But where did it originate?
WHAT is the solution? Correcting a conducive condition? Applying a product or other treatment? Is it even a pest control problem, or is it a medical issue, or something a contractor needs to fix?
A "Spray-and-pray Bug Jockey" sees only the WHAT. A Guardian starts at the WHO and works up to the solution.
A new hire can memorize five questions on day one. Answering them takes a career, and that’s what the Guardian program is for. This isn’t just for new hires. This is for the seasoned veteran as well.
What’s the single biggest hole in your training right now? Hit reply and tell me. I read every one, and it shapes what gets built next.
Stay tuned for more sneak peeks and progress updates!
Cheers!
Jake Claus, A.C.E.
Guardian of Civilization
Follow along at guardianofcivilization.com.