Pi Chi Omega’s commitment to the pest management industry extends beyond networking and professional development—it is rooted in a long-term investment in people. Through its Academic Scholarship Program and Industry Grant Program (IGP), the organization is actively strengthening the pipeline of future professionals while supporting the continued growth of those already in the field.
These two programs represent a strategic investment in the industry’s future—ensuring that talented students are drawn into pest management and that current professionals have access to the training and education needed to advance.
Supporting the Next Generation: Academic Scholarship Program
Pi Chi Omega’s Academic Scholarship Program is designed to support students pursuing degrees in entomology and related disciplines that lead to careers in pest management. Each year, scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement, industry interest, and leadership potential.
The 2026 scholarship cycle marked another successful year, with one of the largest applicant pools in recent history. With 18 students applying, the selection process was particularly competitive, as all candidates demonstrated impressive academic achievements and clear professional goals. While this growth is an encouraging sign of increasing interest, Pi Chi Omega remains focused on expanding both the number of applicants and the diversity of universities represented in future cycles.
Pi Chi Omega will be announcing the 2026 scholarship recipients soon. In the meantime, readers are encouraged to explore the 2025 scholarship recipients’ research updates featured in this issue of Pi Chi Omega News, highlighting the impactful work these scholars are conducting.
As we look ahead to the 2027 scholarship cycle, expanding awareness of this opportunity is critical. Many qualified students are simply unaware that this type of support exists—and that’s where Pi Chi Omega members can make a meaningful difference.
How members can help:
By extending awareness through your professional networks, you help ensure that more talented students discover a path into our industry.
Students and educators can learn more at: pichiomega.org/scholarship
Advancing Careers: Industry Grant Program (IGP)
The Industry Grant Program supports professionals who are actively working to enhance their knowledge, skills, and credentials. Whether pursuing certifications, attending specialized training, or investing in continuing education, recipients use these grants to strengthen both their individual careers and the broader industry.
This spring, the Pi Chi Omega Industry Grant Program (IGP) Committee received applications from six professionals representing a wide range of development goals—exactly the type of engagement the program is designed to encourage. From its inception, Pi Chi Omega intentionally avoided narrowly defining how funds can be used, allowing applicants the flexibility to pursue opportunities that best support their growth. The committee is currently working with applicants to further refine their proposals and will announce the Spring 2026 recipient(s) soon.
In the meantime, be sure to read about Samantha Malone’s experience using an IGP grant awarded last fall, which supported her attendance at NPMA’s PestWorld in Orlando.
Just as with the scholarship program, awareness is key to maximizing the impact of the Industry Grant Program. Pi Chi Omega members play an essential role in helping reach professionals who could benefit from this support.
How members can help:
This simple addition to your presentations can significantly increase visibility and participation, helping more professionals take advantage of opportunities to grow.
The next opportunity is the Fall 2026 Industry Grant cycle, with applications open through September 18. Professionals looking to grow their careers, launch new ideas, or expand their expertise are encouraged to learn more at: pichiomega.org/industry
A Collective Effort to Strengthen the Industry
The success of both programs depends not only on funding—but on awareness and engagement. By sharing information, making connections, and promoting these opportunities, Pi Chi Omega members help expand the reach and impact of these initiatives.
Together, these efforts ensure that Pi Chi Omega continues to invest in what matters most—the people who will drive the pest management industry forward.