EcoShield Pest Solutions Seattle Duo Inspire Students at Blue Heron Middle School Career Day

Written by EcoShield Pest Solutions | Apr 29, 2026 1:18:45 PM

SEATTLE, WA — EcoShield Pest Solutions continues to make a meaningful impact beyond the homes they service, recently engaging with students at Blue Heron Middle School through a hands-on Career Day experience led by Service Managers Jason Sheard and Zachery Merritt.

The opportunity came directly from student interest, making the visit especially significant for the team. “They asked us to do this,” Jason shared. “It’s nice to see that they want us there.” Their participation provided students with valuable insight into blue-collar career paths and introduced them to opportunities within the pest control industry.

For Jason, the experience was particularly personal. As a former student of Blue Heron Middle School, he returned to the same classrooms where his own journey began. “I literally sat in that classroom,” he said. “And I guarantee you none of my friends knew I’d end up in pest control. But it’s one of the best things that happened to me.”

During the presentation, Jason and Zachery focused on creating an engaging and relatable experience for students. Rather than relying on demonstrations, they walked through what a career at EcoShield looks like, covering day-to-day responsibilities, training processes, licensing, and long-term growth opportunities.

“We talked about what it looks like when you first get hired at the job, how to train people, how we help get them licensed,” Zach explained. “And of course why we like what we do.”

Students responded with enthusiasm, asking questions that ranged from memorable field experiences to more practical topics such as compensation, career paths, and how both men entered the industry. “The school wanted us to be open about how we got into this particular field,” Jason said. “None of us planned to get into pest control… but we found so many opportunities in this field.”

Both Jason and Zachery shared nontraditional career paths that ultimately led them to EcoShield Pest Solutions. Jason began working in pest control in 2013 and later joined EcoShield, where he quickly recognized a difference in company culture and operations. “I really liked the culture here right away,” he said. “The division of labor makes for smoother days and a job that you can actually prepare for and do well.” After briefly leaving during the pandemic, he returned to the company. “I’ve seen the other side, and I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else.”

Zachery’s path was rooted in a desire to help others. With experience in carpet cleaning and other service-based roles, he sought a career with stability and growth potential. “Everything I’ve done, I’ve always tried to help people, and with EcoShield, you can make a direct impact on how someone lives and feels in their home,” he said. “If you are willing to work, the company does give you room to grow.”

Beyond sharing career insights, Jason and Zachery’s presence demonstrated the value of hard work, community involvement, and mentorship. Their willingness to speak openly about their experiences gave students a realistic and attainable view of success while introducing them to career opportunities they may not have previously considered.

“It’s a really good opportunity and feeling being able to carry that on to the next generation,” Zach said.

EcoShield Pest Solutions remains committed to serving not only its customers but also the communities it operates in. Through outreach efforts like Career Day at Blue Heron Middle School, the company continues to foster education, inspire future professionals, and reinforce its mission to serve people, build trust, and create opportunities.