The City of Tampa’s only woman fully automated solid waste driver will speak with local kids about the solid waste industry during Women’s History Month. Richele Jenkins hopes to share her experience of working in a male-dominated industry while inspiring young girls and women to explore opportunities outside of cultural norms.
Jenkins continues to shatter glass ceilings as the first of many in her industry. Jenkins is currently the first and only fully automated woman solid waste truck driver for the City of Tampa. Jenkins started her career with the City of Tampa 14 years ago. Her career as a truck driver began years ago as the first woman tractor-trailer driver in the State of Minnesota and the first utility pole worker in New York City.
Jenkins says her career started from a bet. Her dad and brother said she wouldn’t last more than six months as a solid waste truck driver. Fourteen years later, she continues to share her nurturing, caring and fearless attitude with her customers and co-workers as she work to keep the City of Tampa clean.
“When people see me, they are shocked, that I’m a female driver. It lets me know that I’m not doing this in vain," Jenkins said. "There is nothing we can’t do."
Join Jenkins as she speaks to young kids at the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation facility on Thursday, March 24 at 4:30 p.m. Media members are welcome to join.
Richele Jenkins speak about her experience as the city's only woman solid waste truck driver and how her career began.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Marla Spence-Howell
Department of Solid Waste and Environmental Program Management
mobile: 813-610-2118
Marla.Spence-Howell@tampagov.net
Adam Smith
City of Tampa Marketing and Communications Director
mobile: 813-352-1795
Adam.Smith@tampagov.net