Board Certified Entomologist (BCE) Program
BCE-Intern Testimonial

Becoming a BCE-Intern has opened more doors than I could have imagined. As a student I am always looking for ways to set myself apart. BCE-Intern status has led to increased personal recognition and visibility in ESA. It has also given me an opportunity to interact with entomology practitioners, become familiar with current pest management problems, and explore employment prospects in my specialty area.

The BCE examination process has been very helpful in preparing for my comprehensive written exams. There has also been an additional opportunity for awards. I am listed on the BCE membership directory and have my BCE-Intern status recognized at meetings and in newsletters. In addition, I believe that being a BCE-Intern shows my dedication and commitment to professionalism by adhering to the BCE code of ethics. Having completed both the general and specialty BCE examinations all I need is one year post-graduation experience to achieve full BCE status. However, only the general exam is currently required for new BCE-Intern applicants. I feel that it was advantageous to take the BCE general qualifying exam as a student while the information is fresh. In addition, by completing this process as a student I have saved money as some fees were waived and others are very low.

It is becoming evident that more and more entomologists are or are becoming involved in contract research, consulting and litigation. Advertising as a board certified entomologist draws special attention from clients and customers. It was also brought to my attention that BCEs have a better chance of acquiring pest control contracts from federal, state and local government agencies. We may not perceive a direct benefit of BCE right now but it will have a greater implication in the future. When you compare other professions (e.g., lawyers, medical doctors, accountants, nursing, psychologists, etc) they all require certification to practice in their profession. With increasing government regulations and public demand for reputed professionals, BCE offers great potential to meet such requirements. As a result employers may start requiring new hires to become a BCE. Already having BCE-Intern status may be very attractive to employers as they evaluate potential hires.

Thanks are extended to the BCE's of ESA for making this program and intern status available. I would highly recommend this program to any student who is truly committed to the field of Entomology and looking for additional opportunities.

If you are student and would like to discuss the process, my experiences, or have any other questions I encourage you to contact me.

Neil Spomer
BCE-Intern Ph.D.
Student Department of Entomology
University of Nebraska
Lincoln, NE 68583-0816
Phone: (402) 472-2076
Email: nspomer@unlserve.unl.edu