When a call for help is made, a Waste Pro steps up and into action; after all, it is the Waste Pro Way. And that is what Charlotte-based Waste Pro Lead and Swing Driver Arica Allen did when drivers were needed in Buncombe County. For the past nine months, she’s done a 2.5-hour drive from her home in Monroe, North Carolina, to Waste Pro’s Asheville Division. Her commitment and dedication to her North Carolina team is unmatched.
Arica’s journey to Waste Pro started when she transitioned from her previous work in construction and concrete. As a child, she was always drawn to trucks and the open road, a passion she inherited from her father, a truck driver. Her mother’s career as a travel nurse instilled in her a sense of mobility and adaptability. This strong family bond and support system, combined with her passion for trucks, allows Arica to thrive in her role at Waste Pro, a testament to the sense of community and togetherness the company fosters.
“I just really like what I saw with garbage truck drivers. I went and applied, and despite being so nervous during my interview, they took a chance on me, and I am so glad they did!”
Her extended family allows Arica the freedom and mobility to help where needed with Waste Pro. Arica is also a mom of a beautiful 10-year-old girl who many say is the spitting image of her mom. “It’s hard to be separated, but my family helps tremendously, and my daughter sees the value of giving your all when you commit to a career.” “Waste Pro has not only transformed my life but also my daughter’s life. She is provided for in ways I had only dreamed of, and I am leading by example.” This is a testament to the positive impact of the company’s values and culture on employees and their families, a source of pride for all of us at Waste Pro.
Arica has been with Waste Pro for over two years and loves her home-based and adopted teams in Asheville. “I have loved working with the team in Asheville. They have been very gracious, but I just got word that I will be able to head back to Monroe in June,” shared Arica, a testament to the company’s flexibility and support.
Arica explained that much of her job satisfaction is due to great managers. She says Waste Pro Managers Phil Sadler and Ted Goode are very supportive and have worked hard to create an environment that allows her to feel equal to her male counterparts. They both expressed their gratitude for having Arica work at Waste Pro and said it’s her work ethic; she has earned the respect and admiration of her fellow Waste Pros. Arica humbly responded, “I love going above and beyond, and everyone knows jobs assigned to me will get done right.” “I also love training new folks in the Waste Pro Way. It’s my way of giving back to a company that supports my career.” Her commitment to her role is truly inspiring and sets a high standard for all of us at Waste Pro.
So, what keeps her motivated? “I try not to disappoint people, so I work tirelessly to ensure that my customers, managers, and supervisors know I am providing top-quality service when I am on my route. Waste Pro is lucky to have this outstanding worker who can adapt and go where needed in our North Carolina Waste Pro divisions.
“It’s not about how you start but how you finish. I look forward to many years with Waste Pro and finishing on top!” And she is on her way, recently promoted to lead driver, we will keep watching as Arica continues her Waste Pro career.