Dennis O’Connor Biography

Contact: Joan A. Wackell

Biography: Dennis O’Connor, Superior Waste & Recycling

WASTE REMOVAL AND RECYCLING: MEET AN EXPERT

Dennis O’Connor, owner of Superior Waste & Recycling, knows the waste removal business… from the bottom up. It’s a fact; he actually put himself through college by driving a trash truck, sometimes attending classes in his work clothes.

Dennis graduated from college during the 1990s recession only to face a “tough-to-find-a-job” situation. That did not stop him from moving ahead, he simply stayed in the trash business and over a span of twenty-two years built a career in that industry. In 1996 he became a partner in Mattei-Flynn Trucking, a local waste removal company that was sold in 2000. From driving a truck, he moved into sales and finally into a senior operations position. Dennis was focused on getting ahead and as a result, accumulated extensive experience in general management, budgeting, scheduling, best practices, customer engagement, community outreach and marketing.

Out of a job in January 2009 following a downsizing move by his employer, Dennis found himself in an even more difficult job environment than the one he faced in the 90s. The job market was bleak and with a wife, four children under 7 years old, and a home to support he needed to work. Capitalizing on his skills and expertise in the waste removal business, he decided to turn his dream of business ownership into a reality. Determinedly, he researched market opportunities, developed a business plan, and secured a business loan – ultimately opening his own business: Superior Waste & Recycling in Worcester, MA. His plans include introducing a “Count-Your-Green” program through which customers’ recycling will be measured so they know their own personal impact on the environment. Additionally, he plans to build a recycling center.

A business entrepreneur, Dennis is also committed to community involvement. He served on the Board of Directors for Junior Achievement. He volunteers for the Regional Environmental Council. And, he is active with United Way of Central Massachusetts through participation in its Day of Caring Program and by helping many of the organizations that United Way sponsors. Dennis is a member of the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Corridor Nine Chamber of Commerce.

Dennis is a graduate of Assumption College and has taken numerous industry seminars. He has facilitated corporate training and initiatives programs. In 2007, Worcester Business Journal honored him as one of its 40 under Forty award recipients.