In the southern regions of Ukraine, where pest management challenges are as diverse as the terrain, Yevgen Rozhko has carved a reputation for being dependable, scientific, and incredibly precise. With a professional background rooted in chemistry and biology, and equipped with advanced tools like the cold fog aerosol generator, Yevgen’s work is more than pest control—it’s pest strategy.
Having served clients from multiple companies across southern Ukraine, Yevgen has built a solid track record of high-quality, complaint-free service. In this interview, we dive into his story, work ethic, equipment, and deep understanding of how science drives his success.
🎤 Q&A with Yevgen Rozhko
Background & Personal Journey
Yevgen, can you tell us how you got started in pest control?
My journey into pest control began after my career in medicine came to a close. I was looking for a field where I could still apply my scientific knowledge and problem-solving skills — pest control turned out to be the perfect fit. It’s hands-on, technical, and deeply connected to public health, just like medicine
What inspired you to enter this field, and what keeps you motivated?
I see a pest control technician as a kind of doctor — but for buildings. Just as doctors diagnose and treat illnesses in people, we diagnose infestations and apply targeted solutions to restore health to homes and businesses. That analogy inspires me every day, and I stay motivated knowing my work protects people’s well-being in very real ways
You’ve worked across southern Ukraine. What are the unique pest challenges in this region?
Southern Ukraine has always had its share of pest challenges — from seasonal rodent surges to invasive insects.
How did your knowledge of chemistry, biology, mechanics, and math help shape your approach?
While a lot of information is available online today, true understanding comes from a solid foundation in science. My background in chemistry and biology helps me choose the right treatments and understand pest behavior. Mechanics and math help me design better traps and application systems. Creativity and innovation in this field don’t come from Google — they come from mastering the basics and thinking critically.
Science Meets Pest Control
Can you explain how your background in chemistry helps in understanding pesticides and treatments?
Chemistry and math are essential in this profession. Without a solid grasp of chemistry, it’s impossible to fully understand the active ingredients behind branded pesticides — and knowing how those ingredients behave is critical to using them safely and effectively. Likewise, math is vital when preparing precise concentrations for treatment. The smallest miscalculation can reduce effectiveness or cause harm, so precision is everything.
What role does biology play in your pest management decisions?
Pests are living creatures, each with specific behaviors, life cycles, and environmental preferences. Understanding biology helps me identify not just how to eliminate them, but also how to prevent them from coming back. Every species requires a tailored strategy — and the more I know about their biology, the more effective and humane my approach can be.
How do you use mechanical knowledge during treatments?
A deep understanding of mechanics helps me get the most out of my tools. I don’t just use pest control equipment — I repair it and even build my own when needed. For example, I designed and constructed an electric sprayer to suit the unique challenges of certain treatments. Custom tools allow me to be more efficient and precise, especially in difficult environments.
Are there any specific chemicals or techniques you prefer using in difficult cases?
Every infestation is different, so I don’t rely on a one-size-fits-all approach. I always start by evaluating the outcome of the first treatment. If it doesn’t achieve the desired result, I adjust the strategy — whether that means changing the chemical formulation, the application method, or the timing. Adaptability is key to solving tough pest problems effectively and responsibly.
Tools & Technology
You mentioned using a cold fog aerosol generator. How does it work and when do you use it?
I actually built my own electric cold fog sprayer, which I use for large-scale properties where wide coverage is essential. It disperses ultra-fine droplets that penetrate deep into crevices and hidden areas. However, for small or medium-sized buildings, simpler shoulder-mounted or hand sprayers are usually sufficient — they’re quicker to deploy and easier to control in tight spaces.
What other types of modern pest control equipment do you use?
In Ukraine, access to the latest pest control technology is somewhat limited, so I rely mostly on classic tools — traps, baits, poisons, and insecticides. While advanced equipment can improve efficiency, I believe the technician’s experience, observation skills, and strategy are far more important. Good results come from good thinking, not just expensive gadgets.
How do you choose which treatment or method is best for each situation?
My first step is always identifying the root cause of the infestation — for example, entry points for mice or unclean areas that attract cockroaches. Then I prepare the “battlefield” by clearing the space and making sure the pests have nowhere to hide. Depending on the situation, I use sprays, powders, or gels — especially when treating cockroaches. But I always emphasize to clients: if we don’t eliminate the cause, the pests will come back. Treatment is just one part of the solution — prevention is the other.
Service & Professionalism
You’ve worked with many companies. How do you maintain consistency and high quality in your service?
Quality in pest control depends more on the technician than the company. Just like a doctor can provide excellent care whether working in a hospital or private clinic, a skilled pest control professional brings the same standards to every job. I focus on continuing to learn, adapt, and apply best practices no matter who I’m working with.
What’s your approach to client satisfaction and communication?
I believe clients should feel like patients in a doctor’s office — respected, informed, and guided through the process — not like kings issuing orders. I aim to create a professional, trusting relationship where I explain the situation clearly and recommend what’s truly best for them and their property.
Can you walk us through a typical inspection and treatment process?
I usually start by checking any existing baits or traps — they often tell the real story. Then I speak with the client to get more context. But like Dr. House famously said, “patients always lie” — not because they want to, but because they may not notice important details. Evidence on-site is always more reliable. From there, I create a treatment plan based on what I observe, not just what I’m told.
Have you ever dealt with an emergency or particularly challenging job?
Absolutely. I’ve worked in homes so infested that cockroaches were literally falling from the ceiling. In those extreme cases, I’ve had to remove wallpaper and even pull off skirting boards to reach hidden colonies. These jobs require persistence, creativity, and sometimes deep structural work — but I don’t stop until the infestation is under control.
Hygiene & Education
You mentioned the importance of hygiene and cleaning instructions. How do you educate clients and their staff?
Hygiene is absolutely essential in pest control. I often work directly with cleaning staff — sometimes even lining them up and demonstrating exactly how and where to clean. It’s not just about doing the job, but doing it the right way. If cleaning isn’t thorough or consistent, even the best chemical treatments won’t succeed in the long term.
Do you provide customized cleaning protocols for different industries?
While the basic principles of cleanliness apply across industries, I adapt my advice to each environment — whether it’s a restaurant, warehouse, or private home. The core message is always the same: no area should be left uncleaned, and the space must not become a dumping ground. Cleanliness is prevention, and that’s universal.
Why is hygiene just as important as the chemical treatment itself?
Chemical treatments eliminate the visible problem — the pests. But hygiene addresses the root cause. Without proper sanitation, infestations will return again and again. In other words, treatment fights the results; hygiene prevents the cause.
Experience & Learning
How do you keep learning and improving in this industry?
Every property I work on teaches me something new. Each infestation is different, and I constantly learn by observing, experimenting, and — sometimes — learning from mistakes. Experience is my best teacher, and I stay sharp by staying curious and reflective after every job.
Have you received any certifications, attended training events, or worked on special projects?
In my country, pest control work doesn’t require formal certification or licensing. That said, I still hold myself to a high standard and pursue knowledge independently. I regularly study new methods, chemicals, and tools on my own, and I’m always looking for smarter, safer ways to solve pest problems.
Ukraine’s Pest Control Landscape
How does pest control in Ukraine differ from other countries?
In Ukraine, pest control is less regulated compared to many Western countries — there are fewer permit or certification requirements. While this means more freedom for technicians, it also puts greater responsibility on individuals to educate themselves and work ethically. Experience and personal standards matter even more here.
What kind of pests are most common in the south, and how do you handle them?
In southern Ukraine, the most common pests are cockroaches, mice, rats, and flies. Each has its own pattern depending on the season, environment, and building type. I handle them using a mix of sanitation, exclusion (like sealing entry points), and targeted treatments with gels, sprays, or traps — always adapting to the specifics of the site.
For those interested in understanding one of the most resilient pests, explore The Hidden World of Cockroaches | Fascinating Facts to learn more about their survival tactics and behaviors.
Future Plans & Vision
Are you planning to expand your services or adopt new technologies soon?
I stay up to date with the latest developments in pest control. Whenever I come across something new and useful — whether it’s a technique, a tool, or a chemical — I test it and see if it fits my work. I may not have access to every resource, but I always stay open to innovation.
Contact & Services
Whether you need practical help, expert insight, or just a second opinion — Yevgen brings deep experience and a hands-on approach grounded in science and real-world conditions.
