Olivia Kwok

1. What is your role and what does a typical day look like for you?  

As a Director, I support a team of approximately 100 individuals who deliver curbside waste collection and diversion programs, waste processing and landfilling, environmental compliance and monitoring, and infrastructure planning and construction. Every day is different. I might be reviewing budget and strategy documents, conducting media interviews, presenting at Regional Council, or participating in industry meetings related to changes in waste legislation.

2. How did you find your way into municipal work?  

My original plan was to become a gym and geography teacher. That changed when I landed a summer position with the City of Guelph as a Solid Waste Programs Assistant. In that role, I delivered presentations, led tours, conducted research, and engaged with the public at events to talk about all things waste. I was hooked after that work term.

3. What part of your work has the biggest impact on your community?  

Everyone creates waste, so this work truly impacts every member of the community. Managing waste properly is essential to protecting human health and the environment, while also being financially responsible. It is a service that touches everyone, every day.

4. What is one moment, project, or accomplishment you’re proud of?  

At the Region of Waterloo, the Waste Management Division was awarded the 2023 University of Waterloo Co-operative and Experiential Education Employer Impact Award for Impact on Student Experience. The Region provides students with meaningful work and opportunities for growth, and many go on to pursue additional work terms or careers in waste management after their placement.

5. What’s something people might be surprised to learn about your job? 

The waste management field is often overlooked, and there can be negative stigmas associated with waste-related work. With labour shortages and an aging workforce, it is not always seen as a career option. In reality, working in municipal waste management is incredibly fulfilling. I can directly see the impact of my work in the community every day.

6. What do you enjoy most about serving your municipality?  

I love seeing waste management in action. I genuinely get excited watching the trucks drive by, and on dog walks I admittedly take quick glances at how my neighbours are sorting their waste. I am especially excited to see our new garbage and organic carts being delivered across the region.

7. What are you looking forward to in the year ahead?  

In March 2026, the Region will transition to cart-based waste collection. This is a major undertaking that will affect more than 170,000 properties and change how residents set out their waste. The shift has been years in the making and has required extensive planning, communication, and collaboration with external contractors.

8. Anything else you’d like people to know about your role, your team, or your municipality? 

I am a self-proclaimed Garbage Girl. I am passionate about this industry and about promoting it as a rewarding and fulfilling career option.