On a sunny Wednesday in February, Rambo Total Pest Control did something unusual.
We shut down operations completely. Not because of a power outage. Not because of snow. But because of our insatiable commitment for growth.
As a locally owned pest control company serving Puyallup, Tacoma, and communities throughout Pierce County, we believe training is not optional. It is essential.
Welcome to Winter Games 2026 — our second annual day of competitive, gamified training built around our Core Values: Honesty, Education, Follow-Through, and Teamwork.
And yes… there was a Golden Rat Trap involved.
The Theme: The Future of Rambo
This year’s theme was The Future of Rambo Total Pest Control, so we leaned into futuristic décor and emerging tech.
Teams of three or four (mixing technicians and office staff) battled through presentations, simulations, and knowledge games designed to sharpen skills and strengthen cross-department understanding.
Because when techs understand the office and the office understands the field — client’s benefit.
Honesty: The Initial Service Documentation Challenge
Mariah kicked things off with a presentation on our Initial Service process, complete with custom AI-generated Winter Games music (yes, really). The focus? Documentation clarity and expectation-setting. Teams built out “dummy” client accounts and were graded on accuracy, thoroughness, and alignment with our core value of Honesty.
A 50-point bonus awaited any perfect score. Team “Mice Mice Baby” (Jeremy, Beki, and Katy) nailed it and walked away with the bonus.
Why does this matter?
Because clear documentation means:
- Better communication
- Fewer surprises
- More consistent follow-through for homeowners
Education: Rodent Exclusion Showdown
Next came hands-on technical training.
Chris followed with arthropod identification quizzes and a hands-on rodent exclusion challenge in our basement training area.
With PPE on and a 30-minute timer running, teams tackled real-world entry point scenarios. Grading was based on security, craftsmanship, cleanliness, and attention to detail.
Team H.E.F.T. (Honesty, Education, Follow-through, Teamwork) Brittney, Ed, and Mizziu took the win with work that was secure, precise, and tidy.
Rodent exclusion is one of the most important long-term pest control solutions in the Pacific Northwest. Proper sealing and structural correction reduce repeat issues and strengthen prevention plans.
This type of training ensures our team stays sharp when protecting homes in Puyallup and surrounding areas.
Follow-Through: Leaning Into AI
Robert brought the future into focus.
He explored new AI tools that could streamline technician documentation — including voice-to-note technology that could turn spoken service summaries into clean, consistent reports in seconds.
The goal isn’t replacing people.
It’s freeing them up.
Less time typing in the truck.
More time serving clients.
After his presentation, teams battled through Friendly Feud – and Team H.E.F.T. found themselves back in the winner’s circle.
Technology, when used responsibly, increases efficiency and improves communication for homeowners.
Teamwork: Data, KPIs & Competition
Luke closed the day by showcasing new features in Applause HQ — including real-time scorecards, Power Scores, and technician competitions that reward measurable performance.
Transparency. Accountability. Ownership.
When team members can see exactly where they stand — and how to improve — growth accelerates.
The Kahoot showdown that followed was… intense.
Team Guano Loco (Ian, Mike, and Sam) took the win.
Final Jeopardy & The Golden Rat Trap
After combining scores from all events, we moved into a Jeopardy-style championship round.
The Final Jeopardy clue:
“This is the Rambo Total Pest Control Cause Statement.”
Some answers were close.
Some were… creative.
A couple were perfect.
When wagers were revealed and the dust settled, Team SBR (Matt, Morris, and Tori) emerged as the 2026 Winter Games Champions.
They raised the Golden Rat Trap of Champions overhead while confetti cannons fired.
It was loud.
It was ridiculous.
It was awesome.
Why We Do This
Winter Games isn’t just about competition. It’s about sharpening our craft. Cross-training our team. Embracing technology instead of fearing it. And recommitting to the values that built Rambo in the first place.
We shut down for a day so we can serve better for the other 364.
And we’ll do it again next year.
Looking for a Pest Control Company That Invests in Training?
If you are in Puyallup, Tacoma, or anywhere in Pierce County and want a pest control provider that prioritizes education, follow-through, and innovation, we would love to help. Explore our prevention plans or contact our team today to learn more.
