Meet Ashley Waters, Artic Driver at Willshee’s

Having worked at Willshee’s for almost a year, Ashley Waters appreciates the ‘family feel’ and day-to-day variety that his role offers. As a Class 1 driver, Ashley faces fresh challenges every day, travels to new locations and transports a variety of waste streams.

Q. Please describe your current role; How long have you worked at Willshee’s and what does a typical day look like for you in your role?

A. My current role is a Class 1 driver on the walking floors but also I do curtainsider work when needed. I have worked for Willshee’s since August 2024. A typical day for me is doing my walk round checks when I first start work to make sure I’m safe to go out on the roads and report any defects to the garage. Then I’ll be transferring waste around various different sites depending on the business needs of the day. 

Q. How did you get started in the industry and what has your career journey been like?

A. I got started in the industry when I worked for Sherwoods on the walking floors. I worked there for 18 months where I stayed out in the lorry all week. I would be travelling all around the country taking different types of waste to various sites such as compost, commingle, wood, refuse derived fuel (RDF) and general waste. 

Q. What do you find most rewarding about working at Willshee’s and in the waste management sector?

A. When I first started at Willshee’s, everyone I encountered was very welcoming and I felt they would help me if I ever needed it. Willshee’s has a family feel and you can get along with everyone. It’s a great place to work and I enjoy that every day is different. I travel to different places each day and I also do curtainsider work when needed. I really enjoy the variety of work I get.

Q. What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your role, and how do you overcome them?

A. The biggest challenges I face are roadworks or road closures on my route. I overcome these by finding the best route possible to my destination and keeping in contact with the transport office who will let me know of any delays so I can avoid them the best I can. 

Q. What’s something people don’t know about you?

A. On the weekends, I enjoy spending time with my partner, Grace, and my two children, aged 10 and 8. We love getting out and doing various activities together, such as visiting soft play areas. I also enjoy football and love to watch my local team, Burton Albion FC.