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Max: The Newest Chapter in a 30-Year Story

Every long-running business needs people who represent its future as much as its past. Max joined NWR the day after leaving school — and in just one year, he's already found the part of the business he wants to grow into.

“Confidence is the biggest thing I’ve gained. Getting to know the team helped — but being trusted with the machines is what really changed things for me.”

What does your role involve day to day?

During the week I work on the picking line, separating recycling as it comes through. On Saturdays I’m training as a mobile plant operative — learning to use load-alls and shovels to move recycling around the site. It’s two quite different sides of the operation, which means I’m learning fast. The thing people might not realise is how hard everyone works here. It’s a great team, and that makes the job better.

What part of the job gives you the most satisfaction?

Learning to drive the machines. I was really happy when they gave me that opportunity — it felt like a proper step up, and it’s pointed me towards what I want to do long-term. Operating the plant on a Saturday is the part of the week I look forward to most.

This is your first job — and you came here straight from school. What made you choose NWR?

I used to come in with my dad on Saturdays when he was in the office, so I grew up knowing this place a little. It always looked like a good place to work. When I came in for work experience, I went straight out on a skip wagon with Bryce, who showed me how to work the levers and deliver a skip. That experience really solidified things for me. The day after I finished school, I started here properly.

Who has helped shape the way you work in your first year?

Joe Thompson, Karl Gibson and Matt, one of the line leaders. They work hard and they show me how to do things properly. If I’m ever unsure about something, I’ve always got people I can go to. That means a lot when you’re new — knowing you can ask without feeling like you should already know the answer.

How have you found it, settling into the team?

Confidence is the biggest thing I’ve gained this year — and getting to know the team is a big part of that. It’s a hard-working place but everyone looks out for each other. Coming straight from school into a working environment like this could be daunting, but the people here made it feel manageable from the start.”

Where are you hoping to take things from here?

Transport, ultimately. I’d love to be a driver one day — I’m too young at the moment, but that’s the goal. My dad has been an inspiration there. And after that work experience on the skip wagon with Bryce, getting hands-on with the levers and understanding how a delivery works — it made everything click. NWR has already shown me there’s a path here if I work towards it. I just need to keep going.

What advice would you give to someone else just starting out?

Listen to the people around you and work hard. That’s genuinely all you need to do.

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