10-25-2025 11:23am

Justin Wise of Waste Connections wins International Equipment Rodeo

Dustin Terry Editor

Local Waste Connections operator Justin Wise has once again proven his skill behind the wheel, earning second place against some of the toughest competitors in the industry at the 2025 Waste Connections International Equipment Rodeo in Houston, Texas.

The prestigious International Rodeo draws top operators from across six major regions — stretching from California to Florida, Canada to Texas, and even Alaska — in a high-stakes showcase of precision, safety, and expertise.

Wise, a six-year veteran with Waste Connections, first tested his abilities in 2023, placing third at the North Texas Divisional Equipment Rodeo. He returned in 2024, improving his performance with a second-place finish. When that year’s winner was unable to advance, Wise stepped up to represent his division at the Southern Regional Equipment Rodeo in Lafayette, Louisiana, where he once again claimed second place.

Determined to go further, Wise came back in 2025 and captured first place at the divisional level, securing his spot at Regionals for the second year in a row. Competing against the best from across the Southern Region, he earned second place once more — a remarkable achievement that demonstrated both skill and consistency.

Soon after, he received word that he would advance to the International Equipment Rodeo in Houston when the regional champion was unable to participate. Facing off against the most accomplished operators in North America, Wise delivered another outstanding performance, finishing second overall and proudly representing both his division and the Southern Region.

The Waste Connections International Equipment Rodeo is more than just a competition — it’s a celebration of professionalism, safety, and teamwork. Participants progress through multiple levels — district, divisional, regional, and international — navigating intricate obstacle courses and performing precise equipment maneuvers under strict safety standards.

To qualify, competitors must meet high standards: at least two years of service, one full year incident-free, and a clean disciplinary record. These requirements reflect one of Waste Connections’ core values — safety first — while also fostering professional growth and building camaraderie among employees in a fun, family-friendly environment.

Wise remains humble about his success:

“I just try to do my job safely and do it right every day,” he said. “To get the chance to compete and represent our team at the international level — that’s something I’m really proud of.”