During #WomensHistoryMonth, we are proud to highlight women who lead operations at Denali like Assistant General Manager Elaine Duggan.
Many years ago, Elaine's father told her she would always have work if she pursued a career in the waste industry. 30 years later, with experience ranging from cardboard recycling to trash hauling to composting, Elaine reflects, “He was right. It’s been a good ride.”
Based in Florida, Elaine oversees food waste recycling at more than 2,000 grocery stores in 7 states, plus Puerto Rico.
Change is constant in the industry, she says, but she’s ascended to her current position while also raising three sons with her husband of 31 years and relocating to the Sunshine State in recent years to be closer to family.
Being a woman has not always been easy in the waste industry, she says, “but the culture has definitely changed.”
“I struggled with it (being a female in operations) early on. I always felt like you had to prove yourself more, to be firmer than average. But now, I don’t feel that it’s any different than being a male in the same position. Especially here at Denali. I feel we are given equal respect.”
#recycling #sustainability #compost #circulareconomy