The City of Tampa is taking the month to honor the women who have carved a niche for themselves in what's typically been a man's world – the solid waste industry. With Women's History Month in full swing, Tampa's solid waste department is showcasing the Fabulous Five, a formidable group of women who keep the city's streets clean and the waste management system running efficiently.
After grappling with a harsh hurricane season last year, the recognition feels timely. They're the boots on the ground, as Mayor Jane Castor put it, "making a difference in our community." These words, captured by Tampa Government, underscore a growing trend of acknowledging and appreciating the industry's female workforce. Meet Richele Jenkins, the department's first woman automated side loader driver, alongside Trekina Hall, Christine Matthews, Emani Johnson, and TaNesha Jones – drivers and attendants who play critical roles in Tampa's solid waste operations.
Despite industry-wide statistics in 2020 from the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) noting that women constituted a mere 1% of the 116,000 solid waste workers in the U.S., Tampa is changing that narrative. According to the city's coverage, the percentage of women truck drivers in solid waste has climbed to 13.7% by 2022. This shift signals a more inclusive and diverse industry landscape.
With a focus on opening up opportunities for women, the City of Tampa touts competitive pay, excellent benefits, and room for advancement within the solid waste sector. As Director Larry Washington highlighted, "This field offers a path to success for those ready to take the wheel." He encourages women to "explore careers in solid waste and join our Fabulous Five in paving the way and shaping the future of this industry," according to Tampa Government. These statements are a robust call to action for women to be a part of the change sweeping through this essential city service.
Tampa invites local media for a press conference and a chance to ride along with the "Fabulous Five" drivers, slated for tomorrow, at 2:30 p.m., as detailed on the Tampa Government's official announcement.
