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Every day, before most alarm clocks ring and the sun rises, Republic Services employees are on the job – helping keep neighborhoods clean, businesses running and communities thriving.

From drivers who know their customers by name to technicians who keep our fleet moving, the work happening across Republic Services is more than a job. It's a commitment to you, your community and the environment. It's also a reminder that behind every route, every pickup and every truck is a person making a difference.

Here are two stories that reflect the dedication that drives our work every day.

A Legacy in the Toolbox

In Las Vegas, what began with a father's career at Republic Services is now coming full circle through his son.

35 years ago, Merrill Hill followed the advice of his stepfather, who worked at Republic Services and encouraged him to pursue a career known for its stability. Merrill joined Republic Services as a serviceman, helping out in the mechanic shop with everything from assisting on repairs to checking tire pressure.

"Turning wrenches," as he calls it, came naturally. Mechanically inclined from a young age, Merrill built a career doing what he loved. Over the next several years, he worked his way up to maintenance manager, leading teams in Nevada responsible for keeping Republic's fleet running safely and reliably.

Along the way, Merrill found another passion: teaching. As an instructor, he helped train the next generation of technicians, sharing his knowledge on everything from using tools to troubleshooting engines and solving complex problems in the shop.

"This trade is more important than ever. When I joined the industry, I focused on learning as much as I could. It's been an honest career that has supported my family for years,” said Merrill. “The best part is that every day brings something different, and I've been able to mentor new technicians and help guide them down their own paths. It's exciting."

In two years, Merrill plans to retire. But his family's connection to Republic Services is far from over.

Today, his son, Quinn Hill, is carrying the legacy forward.

The two share more than a profession. They share memories of working on cars together, a passion for tinkering with tools and a respect for skilled, hard work.

As an automotive technician, Quinn inspects, maintains and repairs collection trucks at Republic Services' North Las Vegas operation, where nearly 320 trucks leave the yard each day to serve customers. The fleet operates in demanding conditions, hauling thousands of tons of material, and technicians like Quinn play a critical role in keeping those trucks moving.

"Growing up, I saw how hard my dad worked and I learned my way around an engine from him," said Quinn. "He showed me the value of dedication and it's something I've tried to carry into my own career. It’s a mindset."

When Quinn looks ahead, he’s inspired by his father’s example to learn, grow and take advantage of opportunities to develop his career at Republic Services.

“My dad gave me the confidence to know I can go far. Watching him growing up motivated me to want to do more,” shared Quinn. “If you’re hungry to learn, mentors will teach you the trade. Our work is hard. You have to stay motivated.”

Rooted in Detroit: A Calling for Service

For more than three decades, Andre Walk has helped keep the city he loves clean, serving customers throughout his community, from homes and hospitals to grocery stores and manufacturing facilities.

For him, this work is deeply personal.

Born and raised in Detroit, Andre has deep roots in the city he proudly calls home. He graduated from a Detroit high school, married his wife there and serves the same place that helped shape him.

After high school, Andre began his college studies, but when his parents became ill, his path took an unexpected turn. He enrolled in trucking school and pursued a career that allowed him to support his family.

In 1990, he applied for a job as a residential driver at Republic Services. The rest, as they say, is history.

“Being a driver, you see a lot out in the field. I like the challenge and I always say our job is like being in the NFL, just in a truck. Every day we show up, give it our all and go above and beyond for our customers,” said Andre.

Beyond servicing his route, Andre has always had a passion for giving back to the community. As a former block president, he worked alongside local law enforcement, helped build strong relationships with neighbors and played a role in improving the area – all while starting his mornings at 2 a.m. to deliver an essential service.

That same spirit stays with him every day on the job.

When Andre drives through Detroit, he sees familiar streets, local businesses and neighborhoods that are meaningful to him.

“I’m motivated by the work I do. I believe this is my gift. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to provide for my family and value my relationships with my customers,” said Andre.

Throughout his career, Andre has watched Detroit evolve and grow. Through it all, he’s showed up day after day with the same commitment to dependable service and community pride.

Reflecting on his career, Andre simply says, “It’s been a journey and a blessing.”

The People Who Make It Possible

Every day, thousands of Republic Services employees across North America help keep communities safe and sustainable. They do it in neighborhoods they grew up in, alongside others who share their passion and through careers that span generations.

Because while trucks, equipment and technology are all important, it's our people who make the real impact.