Casella Employee from Fredonia Receives NWRA Driver of the Year Award

A Fredonia man employed by Casella Waste Systems recently received an award for being one of the best drivers in his industry. Shawn Dutton was named the 2024 National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA) Residential Driver of the Year, one of four Casella employees in the Northeast to receive Driver of the Year Awards.

Dutton, who has been in the industry for 20 years, is described by Casella as "the ideal community member, with exceptional service." He is known for taking the time to help elderly community members, retrieving totes that are not accessible, and initiating conversations with customers who just need to talk. Management has credited his mentorship as the driving force behind the division's success, training multiple employees to adhere to Dutton's deeply rooted values of service and safety. Dutton is involved in his community, consistently volunteering to assist youth sports programs, and is always eager to participate in community outreach opportunities.

Casella Jamestown Division Manager Bill Delvin says, "Shawn understands the importance of building relationships both professionally and personally. Professionally, he takes the extra time to walk up the driveways of his elderly customers when they have trouble, or he takes a moment to chat with a recent widower. Shawn is well-liked by his colleagues and always willing to lend a hand. He proves his dedication with an impeccable work ethic, safety at the forefront, and perfect attendance."

Below is a video of Shawn Dutton receiving the NWRA 2024 Residential Driver of the Year Award in Las Vegas.