In recognition of Truck Driver Appreciation Week, DPWES is highlighting a few heavy equipment and motor equipment operators in the Solid Waste Management Program (SWMP). Read the stories of SWMP drivers and their experience on Fairfax County roadways.
Antonie Hall
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
Antonie Hall has worked for the Fairfax County Solid Waste Management Program for 19 years. He started his career riding on the back of the waste collection trucks and worked his way up to driving. He remembers when he was 9 years old, seeing waste collectors come and pick-up his mother’s cans. The same company still picks up her trash. Hall was single when he started with the county. Now he’s a husband and a father. He has big family and is grateful for the opportunities to provide for them.
“Never in my life would I have thought I’d be behind the wheel of a waste truck,” Hall said. “But it has been a blessing for my family.”
Hall said serving the community has been a surreal experience. He reminisced on his years with the county and said he remembers all the kids he used to see run out to greet him — some who were in diapers are now going to college. The appreciation people show on a daily basis is second to none and he thanks the community for all their support over the years.
“The bottles of water, the letters and cards all truly make a difference,” Hall said.
Hall, was also happy to impart some wisdom for the next generation of drivers coming through Fairfax County. “Take your time. Take the job seriously. Think of other drivers on the road as if it were your family riding beside you. Roadways can be dangerous in Fairfax County. It is important now more than ever to take care of yourself, stay vigilant and protect your team.”
Anthony Brown
EQUIPMENT REPAIR & OPERATOR
After 23 years working with Fairfax County, Anthony Brown has served his community in many different ways. As he reflects on his career, Brown appreciates the ability to give back and make meaningful impacts, one of which was helping during the Little Hunting Creek floods, when he move damaged furniture and household items.
“It is a privilege to help your community during one of the toughest times in their life,” Brown said. “Being customer focused is more than just doing a job; you must believe in what you’re doing.”
Brown wants collection customers to know their generosity matters — everything from the Gatorades, friendly waves, letters and cards. Brown also wants to thank his fellow coworkers for their camaraderie and their willingness to help one another — especially during the long days.
Warren Brown
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
Warren Brown has driven for Fairfax County for nearly six years. He describes the tough nature of the job, starting work at 6 a.m., driving through tough road conditions, traffic and aggressive driving. Brown says that every day he wakes up to get ready for work it is another day he has to keep himself, his team and all those on the road safe. One of Brown’s favorite ways to help the community is assisting elderly residents with their trash and recycling containers through the Back Door Collection program.
Brown thanked the community for all they do to help keep him and his team hydrated and energized. “It matters,” he said. Brown hopes when community members drive on the roads, they realize collectors have families too and that minimizing aggressive driving is a great way to show appreciation for county drivers.
“We are a team in SWMP and we have to care for one another so we can all get home to our family,” Brown said.
Wayne McCloud
MOTOR EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
Wayne McCloud has only worked for Fairfax County for a few months but is enjoying it so far. He said it is great to be able to put his Commercial Driving License to use. “It’s a tough but rewarding job,” McCloud said.
McCloud enjoys having consistent work and being able to be out on the road serving his community. He looks forward to having a long career with the county and being able to retire.
McCloud wants to thank the county residents for making him feel welcome on his route.
Luis Alcantara
MOTOR EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
Luis Alcantara has driven for the county for three months and has loved every minute of it. Alcantara works at the I-95 Landfill Complex, where he operates a hauler. He spends most of his days hauling mulch, scrap metal and other waste. He came to work for the county for consistent hours and job growth.
“It is nice to know the work you do matters,” Alcantara said. “Everybody helps one another and are invested in seeing you succeed.”
He hopes the longer he works for the county the more responsibilities he will be able to take on. He would like a supervisory role one day and make a larger impact on his community. While Alcantara doesn't have much interaction with the community in his current role, he always enjoys the waves as people visit the facility.
GET YOUR CAREER ROLLIG BY DRIVING FOR US
DPWES is looking for Class A and B drivers. Earn great pay and benefits; enjoy steady hours; drive modern, well-maintained equipment; and work with a professional team that values safety.
