Driver Juan Perez Places First in SWANA International Truck Road-E-O

Competing against hundreds of drivers from across the country, including representatives from top industry peers, Casella driver Juan Perez of Millsboro, DE took first place in the Rear-Load Truck category at the recent SWANA International Truck Road-E-O in Atlanta, GA. The mission of the annual event is to provide operators of solid waste collection and landfill equipment an opportunity to showcase their skills during a one-day event where contestants navigate various field courses and are scored according to their proficiency.

“Juan’s focus, commitment to safety, and surgical-like precision in vehicle operation have set a high standard for his division, our region, and the entire company,” said Kyle Larkin, Casella Vice President of the Mid-Atlantic Region. “Juan’s victory has officially placed Casella on the international Truck Road-E-O map.”

Perez’s journey began long before joining Casella. He earned his commercial driver’s license in 2014 while driving dump trucks, developing a deep understanding of vehicle dynamics and safety protocols. His years of experience—having worked his way up from a Residential Driver to Lead Driver since joining the Millsboro location in 2016—thoroughly prepared him for the Road-E-O event.

The driving competition involved skilled drivers from across the country who earned the opportunity to compete in the international championship by winning their respective local competitions. Each participant competed in one of four truck categories, including Front Load, Side Load, Roll-Off, and Rear Load.

The final competition was composed of a series of timed challenges that replicate the obstacles that drivers experience on their routes, from backing up in a narrow alleyway to navigating tight turns. As Perez maneuvered through the different courses designed to test the limits of skill and efficiency, he drew upon the strong leadership and unwavering support of his team, motivating him to push through every challenge with determination and poise.

Each turn, each stop, and each challenge was executed with immaculate precision. Finally, after hours of fierce competition, the results were announced, crowning Perez first place in the Rear-Load truck category.

This victory was more than a personal achievement; it was a monumental moment for Casella, marking the company's first SWANA International Road-E-O victory. The pride of his accomplishment rippled through the company, inspiring Perez's colleagues and solidifying a culture of safety, dedication, and excellence.

Reflecting on his journey, Perez was humble.

“I knew the one thing that I was going to give was my best,” he said. “Once I heard my name called for first place, I was in shock. It was a feeling inside of me that I cannot describe. I’m so proud to have participated as a Casella team member.”

As Perez looks toward the future, he is already setting his sights on becoming an Operations Supervisor, eager to share his knowledge and experience with the next generation of drivers. His story is one of perseverance, skill, and the belief that dedication can lead to greatness, proving that no matter the challenges, with hard work and a supportive team, success is always within reach.