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National Wildlife Control

Operators Association

Call Us: 1-855-466-9262


NWCOA Training and Events

NWCOA is dedicated to offering training to the wildlife control industry that assists WCOs with developing strong business practices and effective technical knowledge and skills. Science-based information and research is at the forefront of all training protocol. Training is conducted by Certified NWCOA Instructors (CNIs) and Master NWCOA Instructors (MNIs). NWCOA’s training coordinator develops new curriculum based on the needs, desires and trends in the industry and continually refreshes existing courses. Training is offered regionally and during the national training event.

We also offer some of our courses online and on demand. To learn more about the on demand training, CLICK HERE. To register for those courses, please visit our learning platform, Thinkific.

Upcoming events

    • 26 Oct 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 28 Oct 2026
    • 5:00 PM
    • 3914 Union Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63115
    • 4
    Register


    Hy-C and WCS is sponsoring Elevated Exclusions

    on October 26th-28th, 2026 at the new Academy location

    Space is limited to 16!




                              


    The Gargoyle Academy presents Elevated Exclusions 3-Day course. Sponsored by HY-C Company and Wildlife Control Supplies

     

    A Gargoyle Academy Deep-Immersion Mastery Training

    This Elevated Exclusions 3-day course is designed for wildlife professionals.  Elevate your exclusionary tasks to a mastery level. We bridge the gap between high-level safety and high-end craftsmanship. You will learn to navigate the most challenging roof pitches confidently and install custom-fabricated metal solutions and exclusion products that stand the test of time.
    Students will learn to safely and professionally exclude nuisance wildlife through hands-on training provided by qualified and certified master instructors in a controlled environment. Learn the ins and outs; and ups and downs; of the evolving industry standards. Learn revenue increasing systems, processes, and procedures, to take your business and your team to new heights. This class will combine steep roof access, custom metal fabrication, and the installation of multiple industry leading exclusion products, while also testing your problem-solving skills. 

    Day one is hands-on learning of safety equipment, rope anchoring, first man up, positioning, self-rescue, etc., on the rooftop mockups. 

    Day two will be hands-on with different hand tools and brakes, learning various exclusion techniques, custom metal solutions, & multiple exclusion product installations on customized ground-level mockups. 

    Day three will be hands-on; on the roof top mockups; where students, using the skills learned in days 1 and 2, will experience real-world installation of exclusion techniques and products while on ladders, scaffolding, anchored ropes, vertical line suspension and different roof surfaces.

    Students will train on several different siding surfaces, including d-log, cedar shake, shiplap, and vinyl. They will also practice different soffit return styles, gable corner styles, gable vent solutions, chimney cap installation, exhaust vent clean out, and replacement while suspended.

    All Materials, tools and Equipment will be provided for the class.  Students may bring their own personal harnesses, tool belts, impact drivers/drills, etc. Ensure they are clearly marked with the student's name. We must inspect and approve these before you can use them. Wear non-slip, closed-toed shoes and clothing suitable for working on rooftops.

    A wild new world awaits you above the gutter line.

    Lunch, snacks and refreshments will be provided.


    Course will be held at:

    3914 Union Blvd

    St. Louis, MO 63115

    Contracted Hotel:

    Drury Inn and Suites St. Louis Airport

    https://share.google/fGRp8Rz8Uqrrt1FtV


    Please note, any unpaid registrations are subject to cancelation without notice due to limited space.

    Any cancellations 15-30 days prior to course will receive 50% refund and any cancellations after 15 days prior to course will NOT receive ANY refund.






    Attendees are responsible for their own travel and accommodations.


    Thank you to our Platinum Sponsors!

            




    Thank you to our Educational Sponsors!



    *Not a member? First time NWCOA members are eligible for $100 first year discount! For more information email us at info@nwcoa.com!


    • 5 Nov 2026
    • 5:30 PM
    • GoToWebinar
    Register

    Ledge Protection Strategies for Wildlife Control Professionals

    November 5th, 2026 @ 5:30pm Eastern Time 
    (4:30pm Central, 3:30pm Mountain, 2:30pm Pacific)
    GoToWebinar


    Proven approaches for keeping birds off ledges across commercial buildings, parking structures, and industrial sites. This session covers site evaluation techniques, installation best practices, product selection guidance, and practical strategies to help you win more jobs.


    Presenter: 

    Tim Coughlin

    Bird-X



    • 12 Nov 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 13 Nov 2026
    • 5:00 PM
    • The Westin Tampa Bay 7627 W Courtney Campbell Causeway, Tampa, FL 33607
    • 41
    Register


    What it is

    BREAKTHROUGH is a two-day executive business summit designed for wildlife control company leaders who are ready to build stronger, more scalable businesses. At this transformative event, we'll explore all the elements that drive a successful company: leadership, financial performance, hiring, marketing, operations and long-term growth. The summit features four in-depth implementation workshops led by experienced operators and business experts, each built around the challenges you're facing right now.

    Who it's for

    BREAKTHROUGH was custom made for the leaders who are shaping the future of their companies, from owners and presidents to general managers, directors of operations and the next generation of leadership. Attendance is intentionally limited to 50 executives, and divided into smaller peer groups on-site, so conversations stay meaningful and relevant and you're surrounded by peers who have already solved the same problems you're working through.

    Why you should be there

    The company you're running today won't look the same five years from now. And every new stage of growth requires making complex decisions: When is it time to bring in an operations manager? Which numbers deserve your attention every week? How do you protect your culture as your team expands? These are the choices that will impact your company's future, and at BREAKTHROUGH, you'll have the opportunity to work through them with people who know the wildlife industry firsthand.

    What you'll get out of it

    The goal of every session is simple: to give you tools, frameworks and processes you can put to work Monday morning. Through the workshops, peer roundtables and action planning sessions, you'll map out measurable next steps for your company before you head home. And because the summit takes place in mid-November, you'll have that plan in place so you can set priorities and budgets for the year ahead.

    What we ask of you

    BREAKTHROUGH is a working summit and the real value comes from the leaders who show up ready to contribute. When you purchase a seat you'll complete an in-depth survey about your business. We'll use your answers to tailor the workshops and match you with the right peer group. By attending you need to be ready to participate fully. Be open about your numbers and honest about what's working and what isn't. Bring your toughest questions to the table. And get ready to BREAKTHROUGH.

    While coordinating BREAKTHROUGH has taken longer than anticipated, we have created a highly exclusive, elevated, and meaningful event. This is NOT trapping technique or gadget geared, but rather designed to help you take your business to the highest level! If you are a business owner looking to grow you will NOT want to miss this!


    Click here to complete the application:

    https://pestdaily.typeform.com/Breakthrough26Register Today

    Hotel Information:

    The Westin Tampa Bay

    7627 W Courtney Campbell Causeway

    Tampa, FL 33607

    Click here to book your room by October 12th to get discounted rate:

    https://app.marriott.com/resview2?id=1789578586432&key=GRP&app=resvlink

    After October 12th please reach out to NWCOA or Pest Daily to book room.


    Our Partner 







    Thank you to NWCOA's Platinum Sponsors:

      


    Thank you to NWCOA's Gold Sponsors:

               




    Thank you to NWCOA's Silver Sponsors:

         

      


    Thank you to NWCOA's Educational Sponsors:




    • 20 Nov 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 21 Nov 2026
    • 5:00 PM
    • 3914 Union Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63115
    • 10
    Register

    Elevated Tasks SSRPT

    Steep Slope Roof Pitch Traversing

    2 Day Course

    on November 20th-21st, 2026 at the new Academy location

    Space is limited to 12!




                 


    The Gargoyle Academy presents Steep Slope Roof Pitch Traversing S.S.R.P.T. Elevated Tasks 2-Day course sponsored by HY-C Company and Wildlife Control Supplies

     


    A Gargoyle Academy Deep-Immersion Mastery Training

    In this Elevated Tasks 2-day hands on course, students get to inspect different roofing materials, use different tools and equipment, learn how to anchor, install, rig, and become more comfortable & confident with their skills. Different roofing materials, pitches, and real world conditions as they pertain to working at heights employees.

    Students will learn about:
    Ladder positioning 
    Lifeline rope positioning 
    Anchoring into and onto different areas  
    Traversing different pitches 
    Harness points and body positioning 
    OSHA regulations 
    First man up systems and methods 
    Useful Knots & Hitches
    Working around roof obstructions
    Self rescuing in a harness
    Students will be provided with all of the necessary safety equipment and gear during this course.

    All Materials, tools and Equipment will be provided for the class.  Students may bring their own personal harnesses, tool belts, impact drivers/drills, etc. Ensure they are clearly marked with the student's name. We must inspect and approve these before you can use them. Wear non-slip, closed-toed shoes and clothing suitable for working on rooftops.

    Lunch, snacks and refreshments will be provided.


    Course will be held at:

    3914 Union Blvd

    St. Louis, MO 63115

    Contracted Hotel:

    Drury Inn and Suites St. Louis Airport

    https://share.google/fGRp8Rz8Uqrrt1FtV


    Please note, any unpaid registrations are subject to cancelation without notice due to limited space.

    Any cancellations 15-30 days prior to course will receive 50% refund and any cancellations after 15 days prior to course will NOT receive ANY refund.






    Attendees are responsible for their own travel and accommodations.


    Thank you to our Platinum Sponsors!

            




    Thank you to our Educational Sponsors!



    *Not a member? First time NWCOA members are eligible for $100 first year discount! For more information email us at info@nwcoa.com!


    • 3 Dec 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 4 Dec 2026
    • 5:00 PM
    • 2636 Garfield Rd. North, Suite 31 Traverse City, MI 49686
    • 9
    Register


    will be Hosting

                                


                   December 3-4, 2026

        Course is limited to 20 Registrants!


    Two-Day Basic Metal Fabrication & Exclusion Course


    The Get Bent Academy Two-Day Basic Course is an intensive, hands-on training designed to teach wildlife and pest control professionals the core skills of metal fabrication and structural exclusion.


    This course features over 14 real-world fabrication exercises performed on a newly developed modular training building, allowing students to practice and perfect the techniques they’ll use in the field every day.


    Participants will tackle challenges such as:

    • Gable and soffit return fabrication

    • Offsetting and sealing animal entry points

    • Identifying and assessing active points of entry

    • Cutting, measuring, and installing metal with precision

    • Proper screw placement and secure installation methods

    • Working around obstacles and irregular structures

    • Forming basic crown profiles and finishing details


    From mastering the fundamentals of bending and braking metal to understanding how to apply those skills to durable wildlife-proof repairs, this course builds the foundation every technician needs to elevate their craftsmanship, efficiency, and professionalism in the field.


    The course will be held at:

    Animal Traps and Supplies

    2636 Garfield Rd. North Suite 31

    Traverse City, MI 49686

      

    Attendees are responsible for their own travel and accommodations.




    Thank you to our Host and Gold Sponsor!


    Thank you to our Platinum Sponsors!

           


    Thank you to our Educational Sponsor!



    • 8 Dec 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 9 Dec 2026
    • 5:00 PM
    • 3914 Union Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63115
    • 16
    Register


    Exclusion Masters 2 Day Course December 8th-9th, 2026

                                

    Course is limited to 20 Registrants!


    The Gargoyle Academy presents Exclusion Masters 2-day intense hands-on course sponsored by HY-C Company and Wildlife Control Supplies 

     

    A Gargoyle Academy Deep-Immersion Mastery Training 

    Master the Art of Metal for exclusions and elevate your wildlife control business from temporary fixes to permanent, architecturally seamless solutions. This 2-Day Exclusion Masters intensive, deep dive into custom metal fabrication is designed specifically for exclusion work. This beginner-to-intermediate course bridges the gap between basic repairs and professional-grade craftsmanship. Through 16+ hands-on modules, you’ll move beyond the basics to Master. Learn revenue-increasing systems, processes, and procedures, to take your business and your team to new heights.

    The Tools of the Trade: Gain proficiency with hand tools, Alum-A-Brakes Ultima QMS by Alum-A-Pole, and our Mighty Mock training systems.

    Species-Specific Defense: Understand the biology and damage patterns of raccoons, squirrels, bats, birds, and rodents to build better barriers.

    The "Aesthetic" Edge: Learn to create long-lasting, visually appealing solutions that protect the structure without compromising curb appeal.

    Real-World Scenarios: We tackle the most common entry points with multiple custom-bent solutions for every architectural challenge. Leave your job site with more than just a repair—leave with a permanent signature of quality.

     

    All Materials, tools and Equipment will be provided for the class.  Students may bring their own personal tool belts, impact drivers/drills, etc. Ensure they are clearly marked with the student's name. We must inspect and approve these before you can use them.  Wear Closed toed shoes. 


    Please note, any unpaid registrations are subject to cancellation without notice due to limited space.

    Any cancellations 15-30 days prior to the course will receive 50% refund and any cancellations after 15 days prior to the course will NOT receive ANY refund.

     

    The course will be held at:

    3914 Union Blvd.

    St. Louis, MO 63115

    Contracted Hotel:

    Drury Inn and Suites St. Louis Airport

    https://share.google/fGRp8Rz8Uqrrt1FtV

    Attendees are responsible for their own travel and accommodations.



    Attendees are responsible for their own travel and accommodations.


    Thank you to our Host and Platinum Sponsor!


    Thank you to our Platinum Sponsor!

           




    Thank you to our Educational Sponsors!



    *Not a member? First time NWCOA members are eligible for $100 first year discount! For more information email us at info@nwcoa.com!


    • 10 Dec 2026
    • 5:30 PM
    • GoToWebinar
    Register

    Zoonotic Disease Update - What You Need to Know but Wish You Didn't!

    December 10th, 2026 @ 5:30pm Eastern Time 
    (4:30pm Central, 3:30pm Mountain, 2:30pm Pacific)
    GoToWebinar


    Wildlife control is an extremely rewarding career.  Operators however are at heightened risk for diseases carried by the animals they handle.  So it is important for wildlife professionals to understand the risks and protect themselves against zoonotic illness. This engaging talk will discuss the wide and wild world of zoonotic disease, their danger, and their impact on the world.  The guest speaker is veterinarian and wildlife biologist Dr. Jay Tischendorf.  Dr. Jay serves as NWCOA's scientific advisor and is an expert on the subject.  Zoonotic diseases aren't going away anytime soon.  In fact, they are on the rise.  As the Boy Scouts say, "Be prepared".  


    Presenter: 

    Dr. Jay Tischendorf, DVM — Veterinarian & Wildlife Biologist; Founder & Director, AERIE; Certified Expert Animal Cruelty Investigator; Scientific Advisor & Trainer (NACCA, LETI–University of Missouri, NWCOA)
    • 9 Feb 2027
    • 11 Feb 2027
    • Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at Seaworld



    Exhibit

    The Wildlife Expo brings together professionals in wildlife management and pest control for a comprehensive program focused on technical expertise, business growth, and industry innovation. Attendees gain practical knowledge they can apply to their businesses while connecting with peers and industry experts.

    Event Profile

    NPMA partners with the National Wildlife Control Operators Association (NWCOA) to host the Wildlife Expo. Attendance draws over 400 people with an exhibit hall featuring 60-65 companies.

    Attendee Profile

    Most attendees are owners or managers of pest management or wildlife companies and come from across the United States.Click here to register:

    Register Today


    Hotel/Exhibit Location information: 

    Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld
    10100 International Dr
    Orlando, FL 32821


    Hotel information: 

    Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld
    10100 International Dr
    Orlando, FL 32821

     

    Hotel reservation link coming soon!

    Group Rate: $189/night plus taxes and fees.

    Contracted rates are guaranteed through the reservation close date, January 19, 2027, or until we sell out, whichever comes first. After this date, room rates and availability are at the discretion of the hotel.


    Thank you to our Expo Platinum Sponsors:

      



    Thank you to our Expo Gold Sponsors:

          






    Thank you to our Expo Silver Sponsors:

           

     

    Thank you to our Additional Expo Sponsors:


      







    • 9 Feb 2027
    • 8:00 AM
    • 11 Feb 2027
    • 5:00 PM
    • Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at Seaward


    Registration is Open!

    Register Today

    The 2027 Wildlife Expo brings together the education, connections, and resources you need to strengthen your wildlife management business. From technical training and business insights to the latest products and services, you’ll find practical takeaways you can put to work right away.

     

    Why Attend?

    • Practical Education: Gain insights into the latest techniques, trends, and best practices from industry experts.
    • Industry Connections: Connect with fellow wildlife professionals, experienced leaders, and potential business partners.
    • The Latest Solutions: Visit the Exhibit Hall to see products, equipment, technology, and services designed for today’s wildlife management challenges.
    • Professional Development: Earn CEUs while building your knowledge and advancing your career.
    • Business Strategies: Take away ideas and strategies to help improve your operations and grow your business.

    Whether you’re an established wildlife management company or an independent operator, the Wildlife Expo is designed to help you build skills, make connections, and move your business forward.

     

    Register today and make plans to be in Orlando February 9–11, 2027!  

    Questions? Email meetingsteam@pestworld.org.

    Hotel information: 

    Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld
    10100 International Dr
    Orlando, FL 32821

     

    Hotel reservation link coming soon!


    Click here to register:

    Register Today




    Thank you to our Expo Platinum Sponsors:

      


    Thank you to our Expo Gold Sponsors:

               




    Thank you to our Expo Silver Sponsors:

         

      

    Thank you to our additional Expo Sponsors:





    • 25 Feb 2027
    • 5:30 PM
    • GoToWebinar
    Register

    The Next Town Over: What Works for Wildlife Operators, What Doesn't, and Why

    February 25, 2027 @ 5:30pm Eastern Time 
    (4:30pm Central, 3:30pm Mountain, 2:30pm Pacific)
    GoToWebinar


    Most wildlife operators want more calls. I studied the websites of hundreds of your peers to see what helps them show up in search and AI Overviews, what quietly doesn't, and why. You'll leave with a simple plan to update your website so you stand out in the towns you serve today and the ones you want to serve next.


    Presenter: 

    Chad Treadway

    Cube Creative



    Sponsored By:




    • 11 Mar 2027
    • 5:30 PM
    • GoToWebinar
    Register

    Global Lessons for Feral Hog Management

    March 11, 2027 @ 5:30pm Eastern Time 
    (4:30pm Central, 3:30pm Mountain, 2:30pm Pacific)
    GoToWebinar


    Wild swine are managed under sharply different goals around the world, and each setting holds lessons the others can use. Drawing on experience in 39 countries, this webinar examines both advancements and setbacks in managing wild swine.

    Some nations aim to eradicate invasive feral swine. Others manage native wild boar to limit disease spread or to protect rare and endangered pig species. Where programs have succeeded, success has rested on a sound understanding of the species' biology paired with innovative methods.

    Shortfalls are not only the product of poor planning or implementation. Many stem from newly revealed behaviors of an adaptable animal that continues to surprise researchers and managers.

    Each case highlighted in the webinar covers what happened, the lesson learned, and how that lesson can be built into future management planning and implementation. The webinar also confronts common misinformation about wild swine and closes with the species information still needed to improve future management.


    Presenter: 

    Aaron Sumrall

    Pig Birg Trap Systems

    • 8 Apr 2027
    • 5:30 PM
    • GoToWebinar
    Register

    Moles, Voles & Gophers

    April 8, 2027 @ 5:30pm Eastern Time 
    (4:30pm Central, 3:30pm Mountain, 2:30pm Pacific)
    GoToWebinar


    Join us for an informative webinar covering the characteristics, biology, and field identification of moles, voles, and gophers. Attendees will explore practical solutions for managing each species, including effective mole-trapping techniques and helpful tips for improving trapping success. The webinar will also address pricing models and important operational factors to consider when offering these services.


    Presenter: 

    Rick Huberty

    Modern Mole Trapping & Supplies

    • 13 May 2027
    • 5:30 PM
    • GoToWebinar
    Register

    Coyotes and Suburbia 

    May 13, 2027 @ 5:30pm Eastern Time 
    (4:30pm Central, 3:30pm Mountain, 2:30pm Pacific)
    GoToWebinar


    The main difference between the urban coyote and its rural counterpart!

    The focus of this presentation is to understand why this canine is different from its rural lineage, client and group education on this canine, mitigation tools and strategies, hazing and children and domestic animal safety.

    The wildlife control professionals most formidable adversary.....Canis latrans


    Presenter: 

    Bill Christman

    QC Pest Proofing / Urban Coyote Solutions

    • 10 Jun 2027
    • 5:30 PM
    • GoToWebinar
    Register

    Resident vs Migratory Canada Geese: How to Identify Them, Manage Them, and Explain Them to Clients

    June 10, 2027 @ 5:30pm Eastern Time 
    (4:30pm Central, 3:30pm Mountain, 2:30pm Pacific)
    GoToWebinar


    Resident Canada geese present unique challenges for wildlife control operators, and correctly identifying them is the foundation of effective management. In this webinar, we’ll break down the key differences between resident and migratory geese using clear, practical examples, including one operators can share with clients: Have you ever invited a family member to stay for the weekend, and then they move in and take over your whole house? That’s a resident Canada goose. A true migratory goose would stay 24 hours, say thank you, and move on.

    We’ll cover seasonal behavior patterns, how to recognize resident geese in the field, and effective non‑dog control methods operators can use immediately. Because operator success often depends on client understanding, we’ll also explore communication and outreach strategies for explaining goose behavior, addressing feeding issues, setting expectations, and reducing public conflict. Attendees will leave with species‑specific insights and practical tools they can apply with clients, HOAs, and the general public, because you shouldn't wait until someone threatens your life before educating people about resident geese.


    Presenter: 

    Mary Kazmir

    CLE Goose Girl
    • 15 Jul 2027
    • 5:30 PM
    • GoToWebinar
    Register

    Breaking the Silence: Mental Health, Suicide Awareness & the Power of Speaking Up

    July 15, 2027 @ 5:30pm Eastern Time 
    (4:30pm Central, 3:30pm Mountain, 2:30pm Pacific)
    GoToWebinar


    Behind every uniform, service truck, sales goal, and leadership position is a person facing challenges that others may never see.

    The pest control and wildlife control industry is built on hardworking individuals who spend their days solving problems, serving customers, and taking care of others. But who is looking out for them?

    In this powerful and personal webinar, KP Whelpley, a suicide attempt survivor, mental health advocate, and industry professional with over 20 years of experience, shares his journey from surviving to serving.

    Through his personal testimony and industry experience, KP addresses the importance of recognizing mental health struggles, understanding suicide warning signs, breaking the stigma surrounding asking for help, and building workplace cultures where employees feel supported rather than judged.

    From field technicians and sales representatives to managers and company owners, this message is for everyone.

    Because no sales goal, service ticket, or company achievement is more important than the person behind it.

    Key Message: It's okay to ask for help. It's okay to speak up. You are not alone, and one conversation could help save a life.


    Presenter: 

    K.P. Whelpley

    GutterLock Enterprises

Upcoming events

NWCOA Sponsors

Events


National Wildlife Control Operators Association

1250 W Ohio Pike #203

Amelia, OH 45102

855-466-9262

info@nwcoa.com


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