From Sorter to Plant Operator: Oliva Ramirez Yanez’s Rise in the Waste Industry

Waste and recycling professionals work hard every day to protect the environment for all of us. We’ve all seen the drivers who collect our waste and recycling, but there are many more workers behind the scenes. All of them deserve our thanks for the work they do.

From Sorter to Plant Operator: Oliva Ramirez Yanez’s Rise in the Waste Industry

Athens Services proudly recognizes Oliva Ramirez Yanez for Women’s History Month

During Women’s History Month, we celebrate the contributions and impact women have made throughout history. While waste and recycling services has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated industry, women have created a space for themselves to build thriving careers, step into leadership roles, and drive the future of the industry. At Athens, we take pride in having courageous and powerful women not only helping shape our workforce, but also making an impact in the communities we serve.

Plant Operator Oliva Ramirez Yanez

Athens Team Member since 2019

Drawn to Athens by strong word-of-mouth, Oliva’s journey is one defined by hard work, determination, and seizing opportunities. She started as a Sorter on the construction and demolition system, identifying and removing contamination. Her outstanding performance led to a promotion to Traffic Controller, where she guided trucks in and out of the facility and managed tickets. Just two years later, she was promoted once again—this time to her current role as Plant Operator, where she uses advanced processing equipment and systems to grind wood debris. 

Oliva first became interested in the waste industry through friends and family who worked at Athens. They spoke highly of their experiences, and as she learned more about the equipment and sorting process, her interest grew. Today, she is proud to work alongside family members, including her nephews, Juan Rodriguez Garcia, a Heavy Equipment Operator, and Rigoberto Rodriguez, an Operations Lead.

“I have learned and grown so much and look forward to continuing that journey,” she shares. 

She also wants more women to recognize the opportunities available in the industry.

“There are so many roles out there for women, even if they don’t think so at first. Athens is
a great company with a lot of opportunity and benefits for everyone.”

Oliva lives in San Fernando with her husband of 26 years, Marciel, who previously worked at Athens for 11 years. They have four children—Juan (23), Maria (22), Daniela (20), and Eduardo (15)—and are proud grandparents to Mauricio (5). Her son Juan also worked for Athens for a year, and she can even see Eduardo following in the family’s footsteps one day.

Outside of work, Oliva cherishes time with her family, stays active, and enjoys going to the gym.

If you or someone you know is interested in joining Athens, visit AthensServices.com/Careers to view current opportunities. 

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