Precision Education in Spray Technologies: PEST Academy

Milos Zaric leading tour in the PAT Lab greenhouse.

PEST Academy

The PEST Academy is a research-based and hands-on training program designed to equip individuals with the technical knowledge and operational skills needed for optimized, sustainable, and data-driven pest management. 

Private applicators, crop consultants, and industry professionals will gain more than 16 hours of professional instruction through the academy. Learning opportunities offered include:  

  • Guidance on label interpretation 
  • Hands-on spray training 
  • Enhanced understanding of spray additives 
  • Data-driven tools and evaluations 
Milos Zaric giving a tour in the PAT Lab

Credit Opportunities

Upon completing the academy, participants will have the opportunity to earn a University of Nebraska–Lincoln micro-credential and Nebraska Department of Agriculture recertification credits in categories 00 and 01.   

Spray example from the PAT lab

PEST Academy Participation

Each PEST Academy session is limited to a maximum of 35 participants. The first 35 individuals to apply for the academy will receive free registration. 

Spray cards in the PAT Lab

Session Dates

Session 1: December 10–11, 2025

Session 2: December 22–23, 2025

Session 3: January 15–16, 2026

Session 4: February 10–11, 2026

Session 5: March 10–11, 2026

Session 6: April 8–9, 2026

Spray cards from the PAT Lab

Have questions? Contact us!

Please direct any questions or inquiries to Milos Zaric at mzaric2@unl.edu. 

Corn in a field

 

The PEST Academy is proudly supported by the Nebraska Corn Board.