If you ask Tim Langlois '94 how he ended up in the waste and recycling business, he will tell you that it chose him. As a first-generation, non-traditional student when he started at Castleton, Langlois was eager to explore the endless opportunities available to him as he pursued his degree in Business and Marketing.
“A big piece of my journey was finding the confidence to challenge myself. I found that confidence through the help of my professors, administration, and staff members,” he said, adding that a senior year co-op work experience helped to bolster his ability to work with and present to others. “It was great because as a manager with Casella it is an essential function. Although I give presentations to much larger groups now, I credit that work at Castleton for the foundation that allows me to share our recycling message across the country.”
Langlois transitioned through several jobs after college before receiving a call from a recruiter looking to fill a sales position at Casella Waste Management.
Castleton alumnus John Casella ‘72 and his brother Doug founded the waste removal company in 1975 and the first recycling facility in Vermont in 1977. It didn’t take long before Langlois realized the company provided far more than just a job.
“The people and the culture are as important as the work. I’ve met some of the best people and made lifelong friends over the last 22 years. I found my home here, much like I did at Castleton,” he said.
Throughout his time at Casella Waste Management, Langlois has taken on numerous roles, from sales and operations, which included hauling, recycling, and safety, to his current role as Director of Material Recovery Facility Operation. It is his job to make sure Casella’s general managers have all the resources and tools necessary to run the business.
Casella Waste Management has operations throughout New England, New York, and Pennsylvania, with major customers in 40 states. Langlois travels weekly to recycling facilities throughout the northeast and focuses on driving continuous improvement across the business segments in his charge.
“With all the technology that is available to us, I still find a face-to-face or an in-person visit is the best way to communicate," he explained, adding that he doesn't mind the extra time on the road. "My role is not a 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. position. When you love what you do, it becomes part of your life.”
For Langlois, the most rewarding part of his career has been working closely with people and problem solving the daily challenges of business.
“We have the most committed, driven, and conscientious professionals in the business. I am so lucky. I get to help people and I get to build and mentor the next generation of professionals that will manage solid waste in an ever-changing world. It is the most fulfilling role I’ve ever had,” he said.
Langlois is adamant that the waste and recycling industry is always looking for smart, enthusiastic people to join the team. Over the years the company has hired many Castleton University graduates, in addition to the recent formation of a Castleton alumni 28-member group within the organization that focuses on support, mentorship, and networking.
At the end of the day, Langlois considers himself lucky to be surrounded by fellow Spartan allies.
"Casella has been fortunate enough to find many of our most valuable assets in Castleton alumni,” he said, prideful of his alma mater. “I can’t imagine a day that won’t be the case."