By Mike DiBella, Chief Executive Officer
The waste industry is more than just hauling trash. It’s about protecting communities, developing sustainable solutions, and leaving a lasting legacy of service. That’s been our mission for nearly eight decades.
My grandfather founded DiBella Sanitation in 1947 with just one truck, and my father took over the business in the 1960s, expanding the operation to over 100 trucks and two permitted transfer stations. It was there that I began my own journey in the industry, learning everything from driving trucks to managing people and growing a business.
In 1999, I started Interstate Waste Services (IWS), and today, after more than 30 acquisitions, my sons, the fourth generation, are learning the business the same way I did as we continue to grow into one of the top vertically integrated solid waste companies in the industry.
Our purpose is clear:
“We protect our communities by consistently providing essential environmental services delivered safely by the IWS family, deeply rooted in the communities we serve.”
This purpose drives everything we do, and it’s supported by five core values that define who we are:
- Do the Right Thing: Always act with integrity, even when no one is watching.
- Refuse to Fail: Approach every challenge with urgency and a relentless commitment to deliver safely.
- Be a Great Team: Earn trust, respect, and help each other reach full potential.
- Say What You Mean, Do What You Say: Value transparency and follow through on commitments.
- Make a Difference Every Day: Pursue continuous improvement and innovation in delivering essential services.
These values aren’t just words; they form the foundation of our success and the reason we’ve evolved from a family business into an industry leader. As we look ahead, our commitment remains the same: to deliver essential services with integrity, safety, and care for the communities we call home.
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