Syngenta NPTA 5<25 Professional Futures - Meet the latest successful candidates

More successful candidates for the hugely popular Syngenta NPTA 5<25 Professional Futures initiative have been announced. They will now start their journey to the industry recognised RSPH Level 2 standard, and set them on a path to a successful career. 

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT 5<25 PROFESSIONAL FUTURES

Each of the 5<25 candidates has a unique story and a personal reason for being involved. Read their profiles below to learn more about their journeys, achievements and future aspirations.

Brook

HF Pest & Bird Control

Brook is gaining hands-on experience across pest and bird management, developing practical skills in identification, prevention, and customer service. Now focused on expanding technical knowledge, Brook is committed to progressing through both field experience and formal training.

Cassius

Pest Shields, Newcastle Upon Tyne

At 19, Cassius joined the industry after seeking a more varied and challenging career. Inspired by the problem-solving nature of pest control, he is now focused on building his knowledge and developing into a confident technician.

Jack

Riseholme College

Currently finishing college, Jack has already gained work experience in his family’s pest control business, continuing a fourth-generation tradition. He is now looking forward to developing his own career within the industry.

Joe

HF Pest & Bird environmental

With a strong falconry background, Joe brings an excellent understanding of bird behaviour into professional pest management. He is keen to broaden his experience across general pest control and continue building his technical capability.

Nathan

RSPH L2 APPRENTICE

Nathan, aged 18, is completing his RSPH Level 2 qualification through an apprenticeship supported by the NPTA and Syngenta. Following in his father’s footsteps, he is enjoying the investigative side of pest management and has long-term ambitions within the environmental sector.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT 5<25 PROFESSIONAL FUTURES

The 5<25 Professional Futures initiative is designed to spotlight and celebrate rising stars within the pest control industry, reports NPTA Chief Executive, Kevin Lawrenson.

”We are committed to recognising the outstanding young professionals under the age of 25 who are already making a significant impact through their dedication, innovation and leadership,” he said.

“Pest control is more than just a job, it’s a profession that requires passion, commitment and the ability to adapt in a constantly evolving industry.” 

The NPTA believes in nurturing the next generation of leaders, and the 5<25 initiative is our way of giving young talent the recognition they deserve, while also inspiring others to strive for excellence, he added.

The candidates come from diverse backgrounds and businesses, but they all share a common drive to succeed.  These individuals are shaping the future of pest control.

Richard Mosely, Syngenta Professional Pest Management Business Manager, added: “We believe that the future of pest control lies in the hands of those who are passionate, forward-thinking and determined to make a difference. 

“By highlighting and rewarding these young professionals, we not only celebrate their contributions, but also encourage a culture of growth and learning within the industry.” 

Some of the previous successful candidates now in their way to a future career in pest control include:

Farrer Moore

I am 23 years of age and live in Leeds. I have always been interested in pest control, mainly due to my dad having his own business and being in the industry for over 30 years.  

But since gaining more experience in the field I have become more involved and keener to develop my skills further.  My dad would like to retire, and I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to grow the business further.  This was the reason for applying for the 5-25 Profession Scheme.  

I feel the scheme will enable me to relate theory to practice and ensure that my professional development is achieved.  

Pest control is changing all the time, and I would like to keep up to date with all the legislation.  I need more theory knowledge to ensure I am carrying out the best practice for my customers and future staff members.

Jess Symak

I’m the proud daughter of MozzyMak Pest Control, located in South Lincolnshire.

Since leaving secondary school in 2022, I have had the privilege of working alongside my mum, through which I discovered how much of a variety of pest control work is out there and how amazing it feels to provide a solution to help people. 

Attending pest shows, award ceremonies and seminars has really opened my eyes to how big the industry is and how welcoming and supportive everyone has been towards me. 

Winning this opportunity to take my Level 2 is life changing! I will finally be in a position to head out on my own and expand our small family run business with the knowledge I will have learnt. 

My goal is to make our company bigger and better and therefore create job opportunities for younger individuals like myself. 

I am committed about influencing the younger generation as to what an exciting industry the pest control world is.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my two wonderful horses, Joey and Jelle.

Will Coombs

Hi, I’m Will. I am 19 years old and live in Warrington. I have always been surrounded by the industry of pest control with my dad who created his business 25 years ago. 

One reason I applied for this scheme is my strong desire to help my dad retire early and successfully expand our business. I can’t think of a more fulfilling achievement than making this dream a reality. 

I have a strong passion for rabbiting with my lurcher and ratting with terriers as these pursuits allow me to engage with the outdoors and develop my skills. 

I believe that others should consider participating in this field as it offers a rewarding career where no two days are ever the same. 

I am looking forward to participating and expanding my knowledge within this scheme and encouraging young people, like myself, to join pest control.

Madeline Perrott

I grew up in rural Derbyshire, and because of this, I have been obsessed with plants and animals since I was very little. I have had many pets in my childhood, with a mad array of chickens, dogs, ducks, ferrets, rabbits and many more. 

I applied for the Professional Futures initiative to help gain a wider understanding of the pests I may come across and to gain knowledge of legislation to educate clients on pest prevention. 

I am also passionate about deepening my knowledge of the effects of rodenticides and insecticides, so I can go about my work minimising environmental harm. 

I saw this initiative as an opportunity to demonstrate that my profession isn’t limited to any certain demographic or type of person, and to show that, because of the pest industry's ever-evolving nature, it makes for a very interesting career, and one in which there will always be something to learn. 

In my spare time, I really enjoy cooking, in particular Italian or Asian dishes, gardening and growing my own vegetables and flowers, and gaming with my friends. 

Ellie Egerton White

I’m a 24-year-old pest control technician based in Southport, Merseyside. After working part-time for my dad’s pest control and decontamination business for several years, I made the decision to join the company full-time after graduating from university. Since then, I’ve been dedicated to expanding my knowledge and gaining hands-on experience across all areas of the industry.

I believe pest control plays a vital yet often unseen role in protecting public health, homes, and businesses across the UK. It operates almost like a silent partner—keeping businesses safe, compliant, and functioning behind the scenes.

My main area of interest is entomology—I’m fascinated by the biology and behaviour of insects, and I enjoy learning about their life cycles and the most effective methods of control. I’m particularly passionate about exploring innovative approaches within the industry and developing preventative solutions for businesses.

I also love spending time in nature, which has further strengthened my respect for the balance between pest control and environmental responsibility. 

I regularly undertake self-directed research projects on topics that interest me and strive to stay informed about best practice, including the latest guidance from the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU).

As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, I feel proud and excited to be part of the next generation of pest control professionals. I’m committed to growing my expertise and contributing meaningfully to both my family business and the wider industry. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, writing and watching films.