When you think of essential workers, your mind often doesn’t think of truck drivers. Yet, trash truck drivers keep our communities clean and run smoothly, often without much recognition. These unsung heroes deserve our appreciation for the vital role they play in maintaining public health and cleanliness. In honor of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (September 15-21), we would like to show our appreciation by highlighting a few of our very own kmG employees.
Early birds
Trash truck drivers begin their day long before most of us have even hit the snooze button. Before the sun rises, they’re already on the road, navigating through neighborhoods and city streets, ensuring that our waste is collected and properly disposed of. Pedro Benavides, a kmG truck driver since 2006, wakes up for work at 3:30am. Once he arrives at work, he picks up his route, ensures his truck is ready for the day, and drives to the starting location. It’s not just a job of lifting heavy bins; it requires a deep understanding of routes, schedules, and safety protocols to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Challenges they face
Driving a massive truck through narrow streets is no easy task. Trash truck drivers often face challenging weather conditions, from scorching heat to freezing cold, and they do it all while ensuring they’re following strict safety guidelines. Additionally, they manage the physical demands of the job and work long hours to make sure every neighborhood is covered.
But it’s not just the physical demands that make their job challenging. The drivers must also be vigilant to avoid accidents, navigate through traffic, and handle unexpected situations like blocked roads or overflowing bins. Their work requires patience, skill, and a keen eye for detail. John Flores, a kmG truck driver, has been with the company for about 20 years. He not only fills in for those that are unable to take their route that day, but he also trains other employees. Flores says, “I like to train my colleagues on the ins and outs of working at kmG so that everyone can get the job done safely and without accidents.”
Showing appreciation
So, how can we show our appreciation for these hardworking drivers? Start by acknowledging their efforts. A simple thank you, a wave, or even a friendly smile can go a long way in making them feel valued. If you have kids, teach them about the importance of waste management and encourage them to appreciate the work of trash truck drivers.
The next time you see a trash truck driver in your neighborhood, take a moment to appreciate the hard work they do. By recognizing their contributions, we can help ensure they feel valued and appreciated for the vital role they play in our everyday lives.
To our own kmG truck drivers and to all others out there – thank you for your dedication and hard work. You are truly the unsung heroes of our communities!