Antoine Ouellette’s story touches the heart and soul of Airdrie – a city he has come to love and call home since relocating from Quebec nearly 10 years ago.
As the owner and founder of The Pest Control Guy, Ouellette has poured his heart and soul into the business venture, building it from the ground up with sweat equity and a passion for serving his community.
Upon his arrival to town in 2014, Ouellette quickly formed a bond with the people and the city.
“Airdrie is the best city I could find in the region; they help each other and that's why I decided to stay here,” Ouellette said.
Ouellette's dedication to his work and his community has not gone unnoticed. When he found out that he won gold for the best pest control in the city in this year’s Best of Airdrie Readers’ Choice Awards, he was both surprised and grateful.
“I know we serve many customers and we are very involved in the community. At the same time, there are so many good pest control companies around, so for people to choose us, we take it with great gratitude,” he said.
Ouellette constantly challenges himself to balance his love for his family and business, but he firmly believes that the effort is all worth it.
“As business owners, that's where we struggle the most,” he said. “It's always a challenge because when your business is growing, there's less time. But I know that every sacrifice I make for my business and my family is worth it.”
When he is not busy running his business or spending quality time with his family, he and his team volunteer their time and support various charities such as local food banks. He has also been a gold sponsor for Airdrie’s competitive men’s football team, the Airdrie Irish.
One of the most memorable moments in Ouellette's time running The Pest Control Guy was when he and his team decided to support the Fort McMurray fire victims in 2016.
“For me, that was the moment we decided that this is the community we want to live in,” Ouellette said.
The story of Ouellette highlights the significance of hard work, dedication, and love for one's community. Although he is referred to as The Pest Control Guy, the people of Airdrie hold him in high regard for much more.
Ouellette's success in building The Pest Control Guy from the ground up did not come without its challenges. That is why he recommends to other local business owners to seek guidance from mentors and utilize the resources available, such as those provided by the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce.
His humble and generous spirit is a reflection of the community he serves, a community that he considers family. He hopes to inspire other business owners to succeed in their endeavours and give back to the community that supports them.
He firmly believes success is measured by personal achievements, giving back to the community, and supporting others.
