SWANA moving forward: Get involved!
- dpross17
- Jan 29
- 4 min read
The Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) continues to play a vital role in advancing solid waste management across the continent. With new leadership at the helm and a strong foundation of education and certification programs, SWANA is poised to support professionals and communities in managing waste more effectively and sustainably. This post highlights the association’s recent developments, key figures like Don Ross, founder of The Don Ross Group, and upcoming opportunities to engage with SWANA’s mission.
New Leadership Driving SWANA’s Vision
Amy Lestition Burke recently took on the role of CEO at SWANA, and moving into her third year with the association, she continues to bring fresh energy and focus to the organization. Her leadership emphasizes expanding educational resources, enhancing certification programs, and fostering collaboration among waste management professionals. Amy’s experience and vision aim to strengthen SWANA’s impact on environmental stewardship and promoting waste as a resource.
Under her guidance, SWANA is not only maintaining its commitment to technical expertise but also increasing efforts to address emerging challenges in waste management, such as sustainability, recycling innovations, and community engagement.
Education and Certification Programs That Make a Difference
SWANA offers a wide range of education and certification programs designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the solid waste industry. These programs cover various aspects of waste management, including collection, transfer, landfill operations, and recycling.
Some of the key certification courses include:
Manager of Collection Systems
This course prepares managers to oversee efficient and safe waste collection operations. It covers route planning, equipment management, safety protocols, and customer service.
Manager of Transfer Station Operations
Focused on the complexities of transfer stations, this certification teaches best practices for handling waste transfer, equipment maintenance, and regulatory compliance.
Landfill Operations and Management
This program provides in-depth knowledge about landfill design, operation, environmental controls, and closure procedures.
SWANA’s education programs are designed for professionals at all levels, from entry-level technicians to senior managers. The association also offers workshops, webinars, and conferences that provide ongoing learning opportunities.
Don Ross: A Pillar of SWANA’s Community
Don Ross has been a dedicated member of SWANA since 2004. His long-standing commitment to the association highlights the value of active participation in professional organizations. Don has served on SWANA’s International Board, contributing to strategic decisions that shape the industry’s future.
For several years, Don held the role of Director of the Collection and Transfer Technical Division, where he helped develop technical standards and best practices. He is also a certified instructor for the SWANA Manager of Collection Systems and Manager of Transfer Station Operations courses, sharing his expertise with the next generation of waste management leaders.
Don’s involvement exemplifies how professionals can grow their careers while supporting the broader goals of SWANA and the solid waste community. "SWANA really helped kick-start my career-based networking," Don said. "Joining SWANA was a career move for me."
Celebrating Success at SWANA RCon Columbus
The recent SWANA RCon 2025 event in Columbus was a major success, drawing more than two thousand attendees from across North America. Amy led an amazing conference that featured technical sessions, hands-on workshops, and exhibits showcasing the latest equipment and technologies in waste management. There was also a bunch of fun mixed in, including a pickle ball tournament in the exhibit hall!
Participants had the chance to network with peers, learn from industry experts, and explore innovative solutions to common challenges. The event’s positive feedback reflects SWANA’s ability to create meaningful experiences that advance knowledge and professional connections.
Looking Ahead to RCon 2026 in St. Louis
Mark your calendars for RCon 2026, which will take place in St. Louis, September 29 - October 2, 2026. This upcoming event promises to build on the momentum from Columbus, offering even more opportunities for education, networking, and industry insights.
Attending RCon is a valuable way to stay current with trends, gain new skills, and connect with leaders in solid waste management. Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to the field, RCon provides a platform to engage with the community and contribute to the future of waste management.
How to Get Involved with SWANA
Getting involved with SWANA offers many benefits, including access to education, networking, and leadership opportunities. Here are some ways to engage:
Join SWANA as a member to receive resources, newsletters, and event invitations.
Participate in certification programs to enhance your skills and credentials.
Attend SWANA events like RCon to connect with peers and learn about industry developments.
Volunteer for committees or leadership roles to influence the direction of the association.
Engage with local chapters to build relationships in your region.
Active involvement helps professionals stay informed, improve their work, and contribute to better waste management practices. SWANA.org for more information or to get involved.
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