If you think the waste industry is just garbage trucks and early mornings, think again. At Capital Waste Services, we’re building something bigger—and it starts with people.
Last year, we launched the first-ever CWS Leadership Academy to give young adults a behind-the-scenes look at how the industry really works—and a chance to grow into leadership. Two standout interns stepped up, crushed it, and are now officially starting their full-time careers in management.
Say hello to JT and Jack—our very first Leadership Academy graduates!
🎉 Big Congrats Are in Order:
• JT Harte is now the Residential Route Manager in the Midlands.
• Jack Peterson is stepping into the role of Front-End Load (FEL) Route Manager in Orangeburg.
Not bad for an internship, right?
🚛 CDL Permits + Real Experience = Game Changer
These guys didn’t just shadow someone for a few weeks—they got into the action. Both JT and Jack earned their CDL permits, which means they can legally drive commercial vehicles with supervision. That’s a major milestone and shows just how serious they were about understanding the job from the inside out.
They learned how to safely operate heavy equipment, rode along with drivers, and saw what a day in the life of a hauler really looks like. Spoiler: It’s hard work, but it’s also high energy, team-driven, and full of real responsibility.
💬It’s Not Just Trash—It’s a Career.
Over the course of the program, both trainees:
• Worked across departments like dispatch, safety, collections, maintenance, sales and marketing, and more.
• Learned how to lead crews, plan routes, and solve real-world problems
• Built trust with frontline drivers and mechanics
• Grew into leaders, gaining confidence and learning how to work with people at every level
🔥 What Makes This Program Different?
A lot of internships keep you behind a desk. This one puts you in the driver’s seat—literally. The CWS Leadership Academy is about real-life leadership, not just classroom theory. It’s for young adults who want to do something meaningful, work with a strong team, and build a career with impact.
Whether you’re interested in logistics, operations, mechanics, or even safety and compliance—there’s a path here. And guess what? It’s wide open.
🌟 JT and Jack: You Made Us Proud
You came in ready to learn, and you’re leaving as true leaders. We’re excited to watch you take your next steps—and even more excited to have you as part of the CWS family.
To other young people out there wondering what’s next: this could be it. If you’re willing to work hard, stay curious, and lead from the front—we’re saving you a seat.
💼 Want to Be Next?
Stay tuned—we’ll be opening up applications for the next CWS Leadership Academy soon. And trust us, you don’t want to miss it.