Herring awarded National Resident Driver of the Year

Hallettsville resident, Terrel Herring was recently recognized by the National Waste and Recycling Association (NWRA) in being named National Resident Driver of the Year.

Herring, who has served for the past 12 years as a residential trash and garbage truck driver for Republic Services, Inc. in Victoria, was presented the award because he exemplifies the commitment to safety and superior customer service.

The announcement took place at the NWRA Awards Breakfast held at the Waste Expo convention in Las Vegas, Nevada on May 7.

Herring, 63, has been a driver for Republic Services for 26 years and started in San Antonio before transferring to Victoria.

According to NWRA, the driver of the year awards are presented to drivers who are safe and responsible in operating their trucks, have outstanding performance records and contribute to overall safety and image of the solid waste industry.

According to NWRA, judging for nominees of driver of the year is based on the difficulty of their routes, considering factors such as the number of pickups and weekly miles they travel, as well as customer feedback.

Herring said the award is very humbling and appreciated.

He said his route and job is never dull and he enjoys getting the reaction from the kids on his route as he approaches their neighborhood and honks the horn.

Herring also helps elderly individuals with their garbage can and many times will stop and visit for a short time.

In winning the award, Herring was presented the keys to a new garbage truck by Republic Services chief operating officer Gregg Brummer with the truck bearing the name “Preacher” on the driver’s side door that also says “This truck is driven by Terrel Herring, National Waste and Recycling Association’s Driver of the Year.”

Republic Services Inc. is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona and serves 240 markets across 42 states. They have over 36,000 employees and 17,000 trucks.

Besides Herring’s award, other Republic Services Inc. drivers awarded included Matt Linden of Elryia,Ohio (National Commercial Driver of the Year) and Rob Hamil of Chicago, Illinois (National Operator of the Year).

“Our top priority at Republic Services is always safety, and our employees live this value every day,” said Jon Vander Ark, president and chief executive officer of Republic Services, Inc. said. “Congratulations to Matthew, Terrel and Rob for their commitment to safely serving our customers. We’re proud to recognize them as the industry’s best.”