PENSACOLA, FL – June 17, 2025, Emily Kubiak is a petite lady with an infectious laugh who defies expectations. As a wife, mother, and friend, she challenges traditional stereotypes and is genuinely one of a kind. Her unique perspective on the waste industry, driven by her dedication to safety and service, is a source of inspiration. She believes that solid waste and recycling collection is not just about picking up trash but about serving the community and ensuring a safe and clean environment for all, and she takes this responsibility very seriously.
Before joining the Waste Pro team, she was a school bus driver for Santa Rosa Public Schools, where, with the encouragement of her husband of 16 years, she earned her Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). She had been driving a bus for many years when the opportunity for a new adventure arose with Waste Pro. As she explained, “Driving a school bus is not for the faint of heart; you always have to be aware of the road, the kids, and safety.” She interviewed twice with then-Division Manager Rick Chancey, first during the school year and then again at the beginning of the summer. Rick wanted to extend an employment offer to her, but her commitment to the kids kept her driving her bus until the end of the school year. That sense of obligation was something Rick could appreciate. She was hired in the summer of 2021 as an automated side-load driver on a recycling route and has not looked back. She has since transitioned to residential rear-load services, a role she has grown to love.
For Emily, Waste Pro is more than just a job; it’s a family. With two special needs children, life is a journey every day. Her Waste Pro team has been understanding and supportive, especially during personal challenges. This commitment to her family and her community is a testament to her character and dedication. It also reflects the supportive and understanding environment at Waste Pro, reassuring others about the company’s culture.
She also shared that her work-life balance is better than it has ever been. “I have time to be the kind of mom I need and want to be. My relationship with my family is so essential, and Waste Pro understands that. This role has provided me with a fantastic opportunity and a high quality of life.” She continued to explain that this was the first time she had been able to gain financial stability and not have to work more than one job. However, she does not take it for granted; instead, she continually looks for ways to contribute to the team and grow as a professional in her skills.
Emily’s sense of humor is a defining trait that she brings to the workplace. Known to be a jokester, she keeps things light in the office. With random rubber ducks here and there, she aims to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Her manager and mentor, Scott Lewin, appreciates this about her: “Among the many reasons we enjoy having Emily on the team, her laughter, the way she goes about her job every day, doing her best, excellent customer service, and she is such a team player. We are lucky to have her.”
Emily shared, “My team of leaders at Waste Pro are great; they are patient, encouraging, and want to ensure our team members succeed. Scott and our Division Manager Glenn Schweiger have made such a difference in my life, giving me confidence, and that has made all the difference.”
Recently, Emily earned the coveted $10,000 Driver Safety Award and was thrilled to achieve this goal. “I stuck with it, and knew I could do it, not only for my family, but myself. Never give up!”
