In the world of pest control, a dynamic duo has emerged, captivating the hearts and minds of Connecticut residents. Keegan Cravo and Joe Clark, siblings with a shared vision, have built a thriving business that has become a beacon of hope in the battle against bugs. Their story is not just about the success of Mosquito Squad Plus; it's a testament to the power of family, innovation, and adaptability in the face of ever-changing environmental challenges.
A Family Affair
What makes this tale truly fascinating is the family bond that fuels it. Keegan and Joe, with their father Peter, embarked on this entrepreneurial journey a decade ago. The idea sparked from a conversation with a business partner, who saw an opportunity in the western part of Massachusetts and Greater Hartford. Keegan, with her background in event planning and sales and marketing at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and Joe, a Trinity College graduate and former football coach, brought unique skill sets to the table. Their decision to venture into pest control was a bold move, one that Keegan admits she never pictured herself making.
"It certainly wasn't on the radar. But after talking to this person, it sounded like actually a really good opportunity to get into something we could own and grow on our own," Keegan shared. This opportunity allowed them to stay close to home, work with their family, and create a business that would thrive on their shared vision.
Building from the Ground Up
The journey began with a grassroots approach. In the first year, they started with one truck and two technicians, including Keegan's parents. The initial success led to the hiring of five technicians and an additional truck. This growth trajectory has continued, with the business now boasting 45 employees and serving 3,000 customers. The key to their success lies in their ability to adapt and expand, offering services beyond mosquitoes and ticks to include rodent control.
"We had to build it from the bottom up and we now have that experience. Over the years, it’s been really great. It’s been a lot of work, obviously getting started and spending a lot of time and energy learning how to run a business and about the new industry that I didn’t know anything about before," Keegan reflected. This hands-on approach has allowed them to understand the industry intimately and build a business that is both sustainable and successful.
A Balanced Leadership Duo
Keegan and Joe's leadership style is a testament to their complementary skills. Keegan, with her marketing and sales expertise, focuses on the business's external face, while Joe, with his operational background, manages the internal workings. Their direct communication and shared vision have created a harmonious partnership, where decisions are made collaboratively, and challenges are met with a united front.
"It’s been really good to work with someone I trust, and we have a good relationship and we enjoy working together," Keegan noted. "We have split it up well enough so we both can do our own thing. I work on more of the marketing and sales, and Joe manages the operational side of the business." This balance has allowed them to navigate the complexities of running a business while maintaining a strong family bond.
The Impact of Climate Change
One of the most intriguing aspects of their business is the impact of climate change on pest control. Joe Clark highlights the longer tick and mosquito seasons, with customers now calling about ticks in March and even February. This shift in pest behavior has created a new challenge for Mosquito Squad Plus, as they adapt their services to meet the changing needs of their customers.
"Climate change has definitely impacted tick behavior in this area of the country," Joe explained. "We are busy treating for ticks in early spring and in the fall. Mosquitoes start up as soon as it gets warm and they’ll stay out through Halloween. The last few years we’ve got those warm Octobers. I would say since we started 10 years ago, the tick season and the mosquito season have gotten longer." This adaptation is not just about treating pests; it's about understanding the broader implications of climate change on public health and the environment.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Mosquito Squad Plus continues to grow, Keegan and Joe are focused on expanding their services and investing in the company. Their goal is to add rodent control to their existing offerings, further solidifying their position in the market. The business's success is not just measured by its growth in customers and employees but also by the positive impact it has on the community.
"We want to be able to employ people and create opportunities for people around us. It’s rewarding for us," Keegan said. This commitment to creating opportunities and building a strong community is what sets Mosquito Squad Plus apart. It's a business that is not just about profits but about making a difference in the lives of its customers and employees.
In conclusion, the story of Mosquito Squad Plus is a testament to the power of family, innovation, and adaptability. Keegan and Joe Clark have built a thriving business that has become a beacon of hope in the battle against bugs. Their journey is a reminder that success is not just about the destination but also about the journey and the impact it has on the world around us.
