Home, Where the Haul Is: Operations Supervisor Michael Welch

Operations Supervisor Michael Welch thrives on connecting with his Pittsfield, MA community. With a hands-on approach, he oversees operations and engages with customers to solve their problems and elevate their day. A lifelong resident of Berkshire County, Welch takes pride in giving back to the community he calls home on and off the clock.

What does your typical workday look like?

As an Operations Supervisor, I oversee the residential pickup in the City of Pittsfield and the surrounding counties. I also drive often. I know and can drive all the routes, which helps in trying to take care of everyday tasks. I do a little of everything, from overseeing to actual hands-on work.

How do you interact with customers on a daily basis?

I am fully dedicated to service, first and foremost. I know we are a customer-run business, and I take pride in that. I definitely take the Casella Core Value of integrity to heart and strive for it daily. I want to make sure that I am taking care of the customer in whatever form that may be.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy working with our customers the most. I like it when I see a smile on their face when I’m out there driving and can help them or take something a little too heavy for them to pick up, get rid of that for them, or bring their containers back. In my position, an email will come in with a customer who has an issue, and that is where I would call them to help. I take pride in solving the issue and making sure the customer is happy and has their issues solved.

What does the community you service mean to you?

I am from the City of Pittsfield and was born and raised here in Berkshire County. It feels great to service my own community. I know a lot of people, and I see a lot of those people every day. If I were to service a community and take care of the people, I would want it to be the community I grew up in.

How do you give back to your community?

I participate in volunteer work that we do, picking up garbage in different areas of Berkshire County, North County, and the City of Pittsfield. I ran the food truck, where we handed out food to homeless people, and I also did a few cookouts. It means something to be out in my community, and makes me feel good to give back.