LinkedIn: [Tom DeVivo Profile](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-devivo-88761214)
Location: Willimantic, Connecticut, United States
Professional Role and Experience
Tom DeVivo is the Owner of Willimantic Waste Paper Co., a family-operated waste management and recycling business in eastern Connecticut. His tenure as owner spans over 44 years, beginning in January 1981 and continuing through the recent acquisition of the company by Casella Waste Systems in July 2021. Tom has played a pivotal role in maintaining and expanding this long-standing family enterprise, originally founded in 1944 by Patrick DeVivo.
Willimantic Waste specializes in residential, commercial, and roll-off waste collection services, serving over 30,000 customers across the region. At the time of acquisition, the company employed approximately 200 employees and generated $62 million in annualized revenues.
Company Transition and Industry Impact
In July 2021, Willimantic Waste Paper Co., Inc. was acquired by Casella Waste Systems, Inc., a Vermont-based integrated solid waste, recycling, and resource management company. Tom, alongside co-owner Tim DeVivo (his brother), was actively involved in the transaction and subsequent integration process, helping ensure continuity for local customers and employees. Tom’s leadership was focused on community investment and innovation in waste reduction during and following the acquisition.
Casella has since invested in significant upgrades to the Willimantic Material Recovery Facility (MRF), doubling processing capacity to approximately 120,000 tons of recyclables annually, thereby extending the facility's operational footprint and efficiency. Tom contributed to these sustainability and technological advancements while underscoring the company’s commitment to local customer needs.
Education and Community Involvement
Tom holds an Associate of Science degree in Business Management from Manchester Community College (1980–1982). His educational background supports his long-term management expertise in business operations and strategic planning within the waste processing sector.
Beyond his company role, Tom DeVivo has been active in community engagement and local governance. He serves as the Mayor of Windham, Connecticut, which encompasses Willimantic, reflecting his leadership both in public service and private enterprise. Tom has participated in panel discussions on sustainable business practices and waste management, such as at Eastern Connecticut State University, highlighting his advocacy for environmental sustainability in the region.
Professional Reputation and Network
Tom DeVivo commands respect within the industrial recycling and waste management community. He is known for reliability, integrity, and a customer-centric approach, as evidenced by recommendations on LinkedIn attesting to his honesty and dependability as a supplier and business partner. He maintains a professional network of over 130 followers and 126 connections, including industry peers, environmental entrepreneurs, and local government officials.
Operational Highlights and Innovations
- Oversaw or co-led procurement and deployment of specialized equipment, including the Sennebogen 818 material handler, enhancing operational capabilities in handling construction and demolition debris.
- Supported facility upgrades that align with evolving recycling standards and circular economy objectives, collaborating with technology providers such as Machinex.
- Managed legacy operations spanning four decades while navigating market pressures such as volatile commodity prices for recyclables and regulatory challenges.
Summary of Key Data Points
| Metric/Information | Details |
|--------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------|
| Position | Owner |
| Company | Willimantic Waste Paper Co., Inc. (Now part of Casella Waste Systems) |
| Tenure | Since January 1981 (>44 years) |
| Education | AS, Business Management, Manchester Community College (1980–1982) |
| Location | Willimantic, CT, USA |
| Company Size (pre-acquisition) | ~200 employees |
| Service Area | Eastern Connecticut, 30,000+ customers |
| Revenue (pre-acquisition) | $62 million annualized |
| MRF Processing Capacity (post-upgrade) | ~120,000 tons/year |
| Civic Role | Mayor of Windham, CT |
| Known For | Long-term family business leadership, community investment, operational innovation |
Tom DeVivo represents a deeply entrenched leadership figure in the Connecticut waste management industry, combining decades of operational experience with a strategic vision oriented toward sustainability and community service. His involvement in the transition of Willimantic Waste to Casella Waste Systems has positioned the company for growth under a larger corporate structure while maintaining local influence and commitment.
