Route +65: He’s Passionate About Pest Control Because ‘It’s Like Detective Work’
Route +65 is a series on people who have stepped off the conventional career path and are pursuing unique life journeys – showing that even in tiny Singapore, there’s room to do things differently.
While many of his peers were off pursuing jobs in “cool” industries and fast money after National Service, Terry Neo decided to take the opposite route and become a pest control specialist.
It’s not your typical dream job, but Terry saw a lot of sense in the guidance his uncle, who works in environmental services, gave him. “He pointed out that the industry would need more professionals in the future because it’s not seen as a glamorous job by younger people,” says Terry. “His advice helped me realise that pest control could be a stable career with lots of growth potential.”
Now 28 and having spent six years in the industry, Terry is all in. In 2020, he even decided to go back to school to get a degree in facilities management and “deepen my understanding of pest control and get better at what I do”.
“I see my job as a chance to make a real difference,” he says. “Pest control is so important for public health and safety. Just like firefighters or doctors, pest control workers help solve problems that directly impact people’s well-being.”
IMAGES: TERRY NEO
It’s rare to come across someone who’s so passionate about pest control! What about your job really engages you?
The best part for me is that it combines different skills. It’s part biology, part science, and part problem-solving all rolled into one. Every case is different and requires understanding things like the behaviour, eating habits, and breeding patterns of pests.
For example, knowing what kind of insect is causing the problem helps me figure out the best way to treat it. By looking at where they’re nesting and feeding, I can stop them from coming back. When dealing with rodents, I have to understand how they move, like how they can squeeze through small spaces or swim for long distances, to find the right solution.
IMAGE: TERRY NEO
How have your family and friends responded to your choice of a less conventional career?
When I told my family about my decision to go into pest control, they were a bit sceptical, but still supported me. I think they were glad to see me so passionate about something.
I explained to them that pest control is about more than just killing bugs – it’s about finding out how they got into a property and fixing the problem, so it doesn’t happen again. It’s almost like detective work. Once they understood that, they began to appreciate how important and complex the job is.
My friends also know that I’ve never been one to follow the crowd. Even though many of my classmates from secondary school and JC are going for the typical career routes, I don’t feel pressured. I’m content with the path I’ve chosen.
A reticulated python. | IMAGE: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Working with pests can’t be easy. Have you faced any challenges?
One of the biggest challenges for me was getting over my fear of handling dangerous animals, like snakes. [Ed’s note: SCREAMMMMM!!!] It was intimidating at first, but with training and experience, I’ve learned to handle those situations confidently and safely.
Another challenge has been managing customer expectations. It’s not always easy, but I make sure to approach each job professionally. One customer was initially doubtful about my methods, but after seeing the results, they became a regular client. Gaining trust and delivering results is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.
Terry (left) and colleagues dressed in personal protective equipment. | IMAGE: TERRY NEO
What advice do you have for others who want to take the leap and pursue an unconventional career path?
It’s simple: just go for it. Stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to amazing opportunities you might not expect.
Stay focused and be ready to face challenges. They’re part of the journey, but the satisfaction of making a real difference is worth it. If you can find joy in that, the rewards will follow.
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