Meet Natasha Smith, a unique individual who brings a competitive spirit and determination to excel in her role as a residential and swing driver at Waste Pro’s Northshore/Covington, Louisiana division. Natasha received her commercial driver’s license (CDL) eight years ago. Her initial plan was to drive dump trucks and work for her cousin, who owned a materials hauling company. But when things didn’t go as planned, she found her first job in the waste industry. Over the next several years, she would work consistently as a driver for two of Louisiana’s major solid waste haulers and also as a concessionaire at the New Orleans Superdome. But it was driving for solid waste and recycling where she felt most comfortable. Natasha first stepped on a Waste Pro property at the end of 2021. She was quickly hired at Waste Pro’s Kenner location, which services New Orleans and surrounding areas, due to her career experience and vibrant personality.
“I really like the change of scenery every day. Each day is different, and you are a vital part of the community. I like being on the road; you see how people appreciate you and what you do. It’s how I know I am making a difference daily in my community.”
Starting as a roll-off driver, she soon learned to drive and operate an automatic side-loader (ASL) and a grapple truck. Management saw her versatility and quickly promoted her to lead driver. When the need for drivers in another Waste Pro location arose, Natasha offered to help and was soon transferred to the Northshore/Covington division, just an hour away. This was an opportunity, at a smaller operation, to stand out as an emerging leader in the region.
The move was exciting and a welcome challenge to continue growing within the waste industry at Waste Pro. “I enjoy learning new things while constantly sharpening my skills. Even though my commute is a bit longer, it’s worth it.” As this division grows, Natasha is happy to be an integral part of the team.
Natasha’s adaptability is genuinely inspiring. She has been at the Northshore location for the last year and has significantly contributed to the team. Division Manager Wayne Leeper explained that she has been nothing short of amazing since joining the team. “Tasha” has taken every challenge she has faced with new routes and lines of business and has consistently exceeded expectations. The team here has welcomed her with open arms, and she has adapted to her new surroundings with professionalism and a work ethic second to none. Her glowing smile and outgoing personality have rubbed off on many people she has touched. She is the divisional trainer and driver mentor for new hires as new drivers get used to their schedules for the residential and commercial roll-off lines of business.”
The feelings of admiration are mutual. Natasha shared that since moving to her new division, things have continued to improve for her. “Wayne is a great problem solver and communicator. He truly cares about the team. I have rarely seen the type of caring and concern from management that I do here at Waste Pro.”
So, what is Natasha’s next challenge? She looks forward to being considered for any supervisor roles that may arise, as long as she can still be out in the community. Her goal is simple: to make a difference. “I love that these opportunities are available; the sky is the limit, and I have seen others reach for their goals and achieve them. When you give your all to a company, that’s all you can ask for: the chance to grow, change, and make a difference. Waste Pro does all of those things.”
Natasha is humbled and grateful for the recognition. She shared that this honor of being a Woman of Waste Pro is proof that she is where she is meant to be. Natasha is a well-rounded employee, a recipient of the $10K Driver Safety Award, a devoted mother, and a grandmother. She is raising two sets of twins: one set is 22 years old, and one set is 16. She also has three grandchildren, and she credits Waste Pro with improving her quality of life and that of her family.
“Waste Pro has allowed me to give my family a better life. I have achieved greater financial stability, and it’s honestly the best job I’ve ever had. It has changed my life, both financially and personally. I am grateful every day to come to work.”