The 2023 Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) Young Professionals Leadership Academy (YPLA) Cohort is proud to present our project report: “Bridging the Gap: Enhancing Communication in the Solid Waste Industry to Engage Young Professionals”.

The solid waste industry plays a pivotal role in our society, but it faces significant challenges in attracting and retaining young professionals while dispelling public misconceptions. With the competition for a skilled workforce intensifying among solid waste industry employers throughout North America, there is an urgent call to reshape the industry's image and foster a new generation of dedicated and enthusiastic individuals who can lead the responsible management of solid waste as a valuable resource.

To tackle these pressing issues, the 2023 Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) Young Professionals Leadership Academy’s (YPLA’s) Bridging the Gap report presents a comprehensive analysis from the unique perspective of young professionals (YPs). This report offers invaluable recommendations for industry stakeholders to effectively attract and retain YPs, while promoting the solid waste industry as an enticing career path. The findings underscore the significance of engaging with young individuals interested in sustainability, environmental, and associated fields, providing actionable guidance to improve the industry's perception and establish it as a sought-after employer of choice.