Get to Know Niles Hooks
Owner, Concrete Pest Solutions
Cleveland, OH
How did you get started in the industry?
After months of scratching, I finally checked under my bed. At that point I had never seen a bed bug in my life. I had heard the saying, but always thought it was an old folktale. Well, turns out I was wrong—they were real, and in my bed. After hiring one of the largest companies in the country with no success, I began vigorously studying how to get rid of bed bugs. After six months of trial and error, I finally cracked the code. I began to help close family members who had also become victims of these pests. During a quick analysis, I realized this industry was very lucrative and possessed endless opportunities. After getting licensed, I left my full-time position to start and grow a pest control company.
Did you have any mentors along the way?
In the beginning of my pest control journey, I was a lone wolf. I jumped in headfirst. Along the way, there have been some individuals who have reached out for mentorship, (like) Scott Steckel. He has been instrumental in shaping our strategic objectives and business operations.
What’s the biggest learning experience you’ve had?
Life is an endless risk-taking process.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
You don’t work, you don’t eat. You don’t grind, you don’t shine.
What’s the worst piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Aim for the moon, so if you miss, you can land on a star.
What life skill do you wish you had cultivated or were better at?
Gardening.
What are you most excited about these days?
The future opportunities in the pest control industry.
What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?
You are a great father.
What’s one thing people don’t know about you?
As a kid, I thought I would retire at 22.
Describe yourself in three words.
Determined, strong-minded, self-motivated.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
That even after you give it your all, there is still more!!
What would your superpower be?
All-knowing.
Who would play you in the film of your life?
Denzel Washington.
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Cakes, cookies and pies.
What’s one thing you had to learn the hard way?
It’s not what you know, but what you can prove. Documentation is king.
Describe your perfect day.
Wake up, exercise, prayer and devotion, light breakfast, explore nature with family and friends.
What’s your pet peeve?
Driving under the speed limit in the fast lane.
What’s heavily played on your music playlist right now?
Paramore.
What book did you most recently finish?
Disciplines of a Godly Man.
