Get to Know the WACSWM Co-Chairs!

Get to Know the WACSWM Co-Chairs!

We reached out to the Co-Chairs of the Washington Association of County Solid Waste Managers (WACSWM), Becci Piepel, Douglas County, and Margo Gillaspy, Skagit County, to learn more about the affiliate group, what it does, and why it's important.

Question: Please introduce yourself. What's your county employment journey, your education, and hobbies or interests, Becci!

Answer: I currently serve as the Director of Solid Waste for Douglas County and as a leader within the Washington Association of County Solid Waste Managers (WACSWM). My journey in county service has been driven by a passion for public service, environmental stewardship, and building strong, collaborative relationships across agencies and communities.

Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work closely with local and state partners on solid waste, recycling, and policy initiatives that support sustainable and practical solutions for our communities. Most recently, I led the development and opening of Douglas County’s Household Moderate Risk Waste Facility, a project that reflects the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and a shared commitment to protecting public health and the environment.

At the state level, I am actively engaged in policy discussions related to the Recycling Reform Act (RRA), working to ensure rural county perspectives are represented and that programs remain sustainable and effective for all communities. I value the role WACSWM plays in bringing professionals together to share knowledge, advocate for practical solutions, and support one another in this evolving field.

Outside of my professional role, my husband and I own a custom woodworking business where we design and build live-edge furniture. In my personal time, I love being outdoors—camping, hiking, and foraging—and I have a special place in my heart for animals, especially dogs.

I am proud to serve Douglas County and to be part of an organization that is committed to making a meaningful impact across Washington State.

Question: Why did you get involved in the group? What do you see as the value the group offers?

Answer: I originally got involved with WACSWM to connect with others who understood the unique challenges of solid waste management, especially from a rural county perspective. Early on, I saw the value in having a space where professionals could share ideas, learn from one another, and work through complex issues together.

As I became more involved, it was clear that WACSWM plays a critical role in shaping thoughtful, practical solutions across Washington State. The group provides a strong, unified voice on policy matters, while also serving as a trusted network for collaboration, problem-solving, and professional support.

Now serving as Co-Chair, I see even more clearly how valuable this organization is. Whether it’s navigating new legislation, sharing best practices, or simply having peers to call when challenges arise, WACSWM strengthens our ability to serve our communities effectively.

For me, the greatest value is the relationships. This group brings together passionate, knowledgeable professionals who genuinely want to help each other succeed and move our industry forward.

Question: Why did you choose to engage in a leadership role within this group? What has been your favorite part so far?

Answer: I chose to step into a leadership role during a time when many long-standing members were retiring, and there was a need for continuity and stability within the group. While there are still a few members with longer tenure, my 11 years of experience have given me a strong understanding of how our organization has evolved and the changes we have navigated over time. I felt a responsibility to help carry that knowledge forward while also supporting the next generation of leaders.

What I’ve enjoyed most about serving as Co-Chair is the opportunity to connect with people. I genuinely enjoy building relationships, bringing members together, and creating an environment where everyone feels supported and heard. It has been incredibly rewarding to help foster collaboration, encourage participation, and see the group continue to grow and adapt.

Being in this role has reinforced for me that strong leadership is not just about direction, but about connection, trust, and creating space for others to succeed.

Question: Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Answer: I feel incredibly fortunate to work in a field that allows me to serve my community while also protecting the environment. The relationships I’ve built through this work, both locally and across the state, have been one of the most rewarding parts of my career.

As our industry continues to evolve, especially with major policy changes, I believe it’s more important than ever that we work together, share knowledge, and support one another. I’m especially passionate about ensuring rural communities have a strong voice and that the solutions we develop are practical, sustainable, and equitable across the state.

It’s an honor to serve alongside such dedicated professionals, and I’m excited for the future of our work and the impact we can continue to make together.

Question: Please introduce yourself. What's your county employment journey, your education, and hobbies or interests, Margo!

Answer: I went to Whitman College in Walla-Walla, where I graduated with a Geology-Environmental Studies combined major. I went on to get my Masters in Geology with an emphasis in Hydrogeology at Western Washington University (where I met my husband). Right after I graduated, I started at Skagit County in 2007 as a Hydrogeologist Technician, focusing on groundwater monitoring at the County’s closed landfills. I was very excited to find a job in my field! I was drawn to County government and the opportunity to make an impact on the community, particularly in the environmental field. During my time at Skagit, I’ve had my managers above me move into different roles, leaving openings that I was fortunate to advance into. Taking the position of Solid Waste Division Manager meant the biggest change as I was then moving into management of the entire solid waste program, including a multi-million dollar budget and two dozen employees. In my time off I like to read, craft, bake, and spend time with my family which includes my 14 year old son.

Question: Why did you get involved in the group? What do you see as the value the group offers?

Answer: The Solid Waste Managers group was just getting started as an affiliate right after I started in the manager position. In fact, I was at the meeting where we came up with our WACSWM name. I originally got involved in the group because there were so many managers across the state which much more experience than I that could answer my questions. Even now after my years in this position, I still learn so much from the other managers across the state. And now, I have a chance to give back to others joining our group. It's so valuable to have this group since so many of us are working as the only solid waste manager in our county. This group gives us a chance to meet with others.

Question: Why did you choose to engage in a leadership role within this group? What has been your favorite part so far?

Answer: My favorite part of being co-chair is helping to plan our annual meetings in the Spring and our affiliate meetings at the County Leader Conference each November. It is gratifying to help put together this time for our members to join together, and to make progress on WACSWM goals for solid waste management across Washington. Our time in the Spring especially gives us a chance to really focus on what we would like to see for our programs, and gives us the chance to spend valuable time brainstorming and discussing these issues.

Question: Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Answer: I'm really grateful to be a part of WACSWM, and I would like to recognize our affiliate leader, Travis Dutton! He does a lot of work for our group, and helps us organize to set goals and have an impact across the state.