Casella drivers honored by NWRA

Casella Waste Systems Inc., Rutland, Vermont, has announced that three of its drivers were honored by the National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA) as part of its Drivers and Operators of the Year program.

With a total of 141,000 refuse trucks operating daily, the honorees represent “an elite group of waste and recycling collection drivers,” Casella says. The award winners include:

• Regional Commercial Driver of the Year: Frank Corl, Cheshire, Massachusetts
• Regional Commercial Honorable Mention: Juan Caraballo, Potsdam, New York
• Regional Roll Off Honorable Mention: Daniel Hale, Salem, New Hampshire

The Driver of the Year awards, sponsored by Environmental Solutions Group, honor drivers who operate safely, responsibly, and with distinction, enhancing both the image and safety culture of the waste industry. Categories include residential, commercial, and roll-off drivers at the local (500-truck fleet), regional (500-to-2,500-truck fleet), and national (2,500-plus-truck fleet) levels.

“We’re proud of our entire team for the essential work that they do each day, and any chance to recognize those who go above and beyond is appreciated,” says John W. Casella, chairman and CEO of Casella. “To have these three drivers recognized in this manner speaks to their commitment to our customers and communities to operate at such a high level over an extended period. Having representation in three states and multiple lines of business gives us all a great sense of pride that our commitment to Casella’s core values is felt throughout our operating footprint.”

Independent judges selected the winners based on letters of recommendation and the difficulty of the route, based on factors such as the number of pickups and miles driven weekly. All three drivers were recognized for their distinguished service at a celebratory awards gala on May 5 at WasteExpo in Las Vegas.

Frank Corl

Frank Corl has spent over 30 years delivering exceptional service and ensuring customer satisfaction, Casella says. His commitment goes beyond simply completing his route, actively ensuring customer needs are met and providing a positive experience for those he serves. Whether responding swiftly to additional stops or supporting fellow drivers, Frank embodies professionalism, leadership and an unwavering work ethic.

“Frank’s dedication goes far beyond his job description. He consistently goes the extra mile to ensure customers are satisfied and everyone is properly taken care of,” says Cheshire, Massachusetts Division Manager Stephen Haeder. “His outstanding work ethic and commitment to excellence from his very first day on the job have always set him apart.”

Juan Caraballo

With over 20 years of experience, Juan Caraballo has become a leader within his division, embodying the “Casella Core Values” in his daily work. Described as a "go-to guy," Caraballo consistently completes tasks with a focus on safety and efficiency, proactively offering suggestions to improve processes and enhance service. His commitment to customers is paramount; he considers them friends and consistently goes the extra mile to meet their needs. An exceptional safety record complements Caraballo's strong work ethic, Casella says.

“What sets Juan apart from others is his extraordinary daily commitment to safety and service, on and off the clock,” says Potsdam, New York, Division Manager Doug Fry. “I hear nothing but praise from Juan’s customers when I am out doing site visits, fellow coworkers in the breakroom and multiple levels of local leadership.”

Daniel Hale

With over 25 years of professional driving experience, Dan Hale exemplifies dedication, reliability and operational excellence as a roll-off driver, according to Casella. Known for his punctuality and impeccable attendance record, Hale has consistently been on time and has never called off work, earning the admiration and respect of his colleagues and supervisors alike. As a seasoned driver, Hale has trained dozens of employees, making a significant contribution to the efficiency and success of his team. His meticulous approach to pre-trip and post-trip inspections ensures the safety and reliability of his vehicle, making him one of the safest drivers in the fleet.

“Dan is a pleasure to work with. His professionalism, expertise, and experience contribute to our daily success as a team,” says Salem, New Hampshire, Dispatcher Glenn Doherty. “He approaches every assignment with a thoroughness that makes the whole division run smoothly.”