If there is one thing we’ve learned, it’s that there are many misconceptions about women in the pest control industry. So while we could write a blog post about why women are a good fit for Mosquito Joe, we thought there were a few people who could do a better job. In our blog series, Women of MoJo, we highlight the incredible women that are a part of the MoJo family and why it is no longer a man’s world!
This month we’re introducing you to one of our newest franchisees, Lindsay Fitzpatrick. Lindsay and her husband Ted are owners of Mosquito Joe of Naples. On top of that, she still maintains a full time position as a registered nurse and is the mother to a two-year old son, three dogs, and two cats! We are thrilled to welcome Lindsay and Ted to our franchise and have them show you how you can truly be your own boss with MoJo.
What motivated you to get involved in Mosquito Joe?
We had looked at a few other franchises and MoJo hands down had the best corporate culture, attitude and support that we were looking for in a franchise. More importantly, I could see Mosquito Joe as a service that my own family needed in Southwest Florida!! I felt that if it was something we could use, then there had to be other families in our area who would feel the same way!
What is your typical day during mosquito season?
I open the surgery center I work at, so I get to work at 5:30am, come home around 2pm and help with Mosquito Joe until our son is home from school around 3:30-4pm. Then I get to do my favorite job, which is mommy to our two year old son! Having MoJo services in our own yard makes this part of my day so much more fun because we can actually be outside and enjoy it!!
Why is a Mosquito Joe business a good fit for women?
It really caters to the active lifestyle we have as a family. We have a toddler, three dogs and two cats! We protect them all with our services, and it gives us flexibility to be there for our son and still work.
There are often misconceptions around the pest control industry and in particular with women working in that industry (that it’s dirty, etc.); what are your thoughts on those?
I find what we do empowering to families because it gives them the ability to spend more time together doing more engaging activities outside rather than sitting inside watching TV or similar. I feel better knowing I provide an added barrier against disease (always thinking like a nurse) and that being more active outside in the fresh air and sunshine is always good for everyone! My career as a nurse isn’t glamorous, so pest control doesn’t really bother me!
What advice would you give a woman considering opening a Mosquito Joe business?
It is so rewarding to see how you help families and property owners maximize their outdoor areas and time spent there! It gives you flexibility depending on how you structure your role in the business as well. I still manage to work full time, get my family time and help my husband run MoJo! It’s the perfect balance for me, and I know that in the future, I have the ability to continue to mold my role in all of my “jobs” to fit well with MoJo.
