Diversity and inclusion are fundamental values, as described in our Code of Conduct. Therefore, it’s essential that our workforce, from the frontline to executive leadership, reflect the diverse customers and neighbors who make up our communities.

WM aims to build a community of belonging by creating structure around our recruitment, hiring, training, development, promotion and pay programs. We can inspire existing and future employees by basing roles on job-related competencies, incorporating employee metrics into each market’s monthly and quarterly business reviews, and highlighting — internally and externally — a diverse employee base.

Being an Employer of Choice

To expand opportunities, WM broadened its applicant pool to reach individuals outside the waste industry with an intentional focus on competency-based hiring by identifying core requirements for success. This approach allows WM to screen candidates for knowledge, skills and abilities, rather than relying solely on tenure, prior industry-specific experience or educational milestones.

To attract candidates outside the waste industry, we have increased outreach efforts to diverse community members, attended hiring events for minority groups (military-focused, for example), and implemented programs to support the hiring and development of under-served groups like our Women in the Driver’s Seat program. We also continue to grow and expand the reach of our Innovative Employment Pathways (IEP)® program which works with nonprofits to break down barriers and help bring disenfranchised individuals into entry-level jobs.

Embedding Diversity and Inclusion Inside WM

At WM, we embrace and cultivate respect, trust, open communication, and diversity of thought and people. We're building inclusive practices that empower our employees because we know the impact we can make when we unite on shared values and purpose.

As we continue to strengthen our culture of belonging, WM has relaunched its Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Council. Under the executive sponsorship, the new D&I Council is comprised of impactful leaders across all areas of our business who bring unique perspectives and expertise to the council. This group is focused on strengthening our culture of belonging at WM.

WM’s four internal Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) further foster a culture of inclusion and belonging. Our employee-led ERGs enable and empower our teammates to grow, learn, and engage. With a strong focus on our People First commitment, WM’s ERGs support our value of Diversity & Inclusion, embracing and cultivating respect, trust, open communication, and diversity of thought and people.

Our Multicultural Employee Resource Group serves to attract, retain, celebrate and develop team members of all cultures. This diverse group works to empower all employees through networking, mentoring, development, resource sharing and community partnership activities.

Our LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group serves as a welcoming space for employees who understand that sharing their authentic identity is powerful in fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can bring their full selves to work each day. Through support from each other and allies, members illustrate how at WM, Inclusion Matters.

Our Women’s Empowerment Network Employee Resource Group is focused on creating a workplace that empowers, encourages and supports women. WEN is dedicated to providing women with resources they need to advance their skills and leadership potential through growth, development and allyship.

Our Veterans Employee Resource Group supports veteran employees and military families across WM while increasing the focus on military recruitment in partnership with talent acquisition and developing external partnerships with veteran organizations.