Local Recology Driver Zac Ramsey Recognized as National ‘Driver of the Year’

Zac Ramsey – Driver of the Year

Zac Ramsey, a driver for Recology Arcata, has been honored with the prestigious title of Driver of the Year by the National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA). This accolade is part of the 2025 NWRA Driver of the Year competition, where Ramsey triumphed in the regional residential category, marking an exceptional milestone for a small-town driver in a nationwide contest.

Ramsey’s win comes as a major success not only for him but also for his local community and Recology Arcata. “It was a huge long shot for Zac to win coming from such a small town,” said Frank Nelson, General Manager of Recology Arcata, “but his customers love him, and it’s clear why. His professionalism, commitment to safety, and engagement with the community have earned him this national recognition.”

The NWRA Driver of the Year awards honor waste collection professionals who demonstrate outstanding safety records, dedication, and service in their respective communities. This year, Recology was thrilled to have three of its drivers named Drivers of the Year, with Ramsey earning one of those coveted spots. All Recology honorees, including Zac, maintained perfect safety records—no accidents, no injuries—showcasing their exceptional skill and care on the job.

Zac Ramsey’s commitment extends beyond just his work on the routes; his friendly demeanor and reliability have made him a favorite among his customers. Known for his years of consistent service, Zac’s impact is felt deeply within the Arcata community, where he has worked diligently to ensure that waste collection is efficient, safe, and always with a smile.

Ramsey’s win is part of a larger success for Recology, with nine additional drivers from the company also receiving Honorable Mentions in various categories. This recognition marks Recology’s best performance in the national competition to date.

“It’s a cool story,” Nelson added, “and it’s a reflection of Zac’s dedication and the strength of the Recology team here in Arcata. We couldn’t be prouder.”

The NWRA awards recognize not only safety but also route difficulty and community involvement, areas where Ramsey has consistently excelled. He is now among an elite group of drivers nationwide who are celebrated for their hard work and commitment to the waste and recycling industry.

Zac’s recognition is a reminder of the often-overlooked heroes who serve our communities in essential roles. Thanks to his hard work and the support of his community, Zac Ramsey is now a shining example of excellence in the industry, and his victory is a testament to the power of dedication and community engagement.