At Capital Waste Services, great people are the foundation of great service. Building on the overwhelming success of our Drivers of the Year awards in 2023, this year we proudly expand. We are thrilled to honor outstanding team members' success throughout 2024 across four key categories: Driver of the Year, Loader of the Year, Technician of the Year, and Operator of the Year.
This year, we set a high bar with a detailed and demanding set of criteria that reflects what it truly means to be a leader at Capital Waste Services. These awards are more than just a title — they represent a part of our core values, excellence, safety, and teamwork. Each nominee was evaluated based on a set of rigorous criteria, including:
- Safety performance
- Service excellence
- Teamwork leadership
- Attendance
Throughout the year, our Drivers, Loaders, Technicians, and Operators work behind the scenes and on the streets to keep our collection routes, landfill sites, and hauling services running safely and efficiently. Behind the scenes, our General Managers, Fleet Managers, and Landfill Managers submitted nominations, each highlighting the dedication and achievements of their team members.
These nominations were carefully reviewed by our Senior Leadership Team, with attention from Joshua Witsman, Director of Safety, and Mike Hughes, Safety Manager. Winners were selected through a rigorous head-to-head evaluation of safety records, performance metrics, and leadership in service.
Meet Our 2024 Employees of the Year!
Driver of the Year: 🏆 Nakita Gordon – Chattanooga, Tennessee
Nakita has consistently demonstrated outstanding service, teamwork, and a perfect safety record throughout the year.
Loader of the Year: 🏆 Sidney Walker – Lowcountry, South Carolina
Sidney’s attention to detail, strong work ethic, and dedication to safety have made a tremendous impact.
Technician of the Year: 🏆 Wilson Delaney – Columbia, South Carolina
Wilson’s dedication, skill, commitment, and pride in his work is evident in every task he tackles.
Operator of the Year: 🏆 Shane Patterson – Murray County, Georgia
Shane’s leadership at Murray County has been a key part of our success this year.
These outstanding employees truly embody what Capital Waste Services stands for. Whether on the road, on the landfill, or in the shop, their efforts keep our communities clean, safe, and running smoothly. Congratulations again to our 2024 Employees of the Year — and thank you for leading the way!