A prep class for the Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) exam will be offered December 12-13 in Dallas. The class will provide an [optional] opportunity to take the ACE exam on the second day. The class at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Dallas is part of IPM Experience House course series for 2019.
Prep classes are usually small and lively in discussion. Last year’s class included (from left): Brandon Guy and Bruce Guy (Bugs and Blooms), Mike Merchant (Instructor), David Gayle (Gayle Pest Control), Brad Hudson and William (Ashley) Jenkins (Presto-X) and Rodney Hall (Home Exterminating Services).
With over 1,000 ACEs nationwide, the Certification program of the Entomological Society of America (ESA) is the fastest growing certification program for PMPs.
We find that the biggest hurdles for PMPs wanting certification include uncertainty about how to prepare for the ACE exam, and fear of test-taking. That’s where the ACE Prep Class comes in. The Dallas class, December 12-13, is a one-and-a-half day course followed by an opportunity to take the ACE exam on the afternoon of day 2.
Classes provides a review of fundamental entomology and basic knowledge requirements for the exam. The training is intended as either a kick off for the studying process, or as a last minute review and confidence building class (not a substitute for comprehensive studying). Coincidently, the class is also good for new technicians who would like a broad overview of the science of pest management.
Test taking success rates are much higher with good preparation.
Costs for the class
Registration for the Dallas class is available online and costs $60 ($70 after 12/09; click here for agenda and registration). Snacks and water are provided at the Dallas class; lunch is on your own. As part of the IPM Experience House curricula, the Dallas class also includes some extra time with microscopes and specimen viewing.
Size of the prep class is limited to 30 students. Up to 4 CEU credits will be available for those providing license numbers. In addition, you have the option to purchase the highly recommended: ACE Study Guide “IPM for the Urban Professional: A Study Guide for the Associate Certified Entomologist.” Entomological Society of America -$49
How Do I Get Certified?
So what’s involved with getting certified? First you have to qualify. To become an ACE, you must:
Have five years experience in pest control (three years for those with an entomology degree);
hold a current U.S. pesticide applicator’s license; and agree to sign the ACE code of ethics.
If you think you qualify, you can apply through the ESA/ACE website. The application fee is $355 for ESA members and $395 for non-ESA members.
After being approved by the ESA, you will need to study to take the ACE exam. Information about how to study for the exam and what study materials are recommended can be found on the ESA website. Note: if you plan to take the exam after the class prior study is highly recommended. The Prep Class is not a prerequisite for taking the exam, however many people find that the class is a useful way to prepare for study.