In 2015, I left the nightclub industry to start over as a receptionist at a hazardous waste TSDF. It was scary, but it was the best decision I ever made.
Kimberly Motes · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Kimberly
Kimberly Motes serves as an Account Executive at WASTELINQ, Inc., a Houston, TX-based waste management software (SaaS) company specializing in environmental compliance and waste management solutions. With more than 11 years of experience in the waste industry, she has built a career centered on customer success, operational excellence, and relationship management. Since joining WASTELINQ nearly five years ago, Motes has advanced through multiple roles—from Profile Coordinator to Network Account Manager and Client Success Manager—before assuming her current position as Account Executive. In this role, she partners with organizations to implement technology solutions that simplify compliance, improve document retention, and leverage AI-powered workflows to help businesses increase efficiency and scale without adding staff. Before joining WASTELINQ, Motes spent more than five years with Excel TSD of Tennessee, where she progressed from receptionist to office manager while developing expertise in waste services, operations, and client management. Earlier in her career, she held leadership positions in the hospitality and entertainment industry, overseeing operations, financial management, marketing initiatives, vendor relationships, and team development. Throughout her career, she has earned a reputation for building trusted client relationships, delivering exceptional service, and helping organizations navigate complex environmental compliance challenges. She attributes her professional success to her determination, perseverance, and the unwavering support of her colleagues and executive leadership team. Dedicated to lifelong learning and industry advancement, Motes is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Customer Experience at Southern New Hampshire University, with an anticipated graduation in January 2028. She has also earned professional certifications in Applied Marketing Strategies and 40-Hour HAZWOPER training, further strengthening her expertise in environmental compliance. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Motes is passionate about connecting and supporting women in the waste industry. She founded the LinkedIn community "Hazardous & Heels," creating a platform where women can share knowledge, build connections, and encourage one another while promoting education, empowerment, and leadership in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kimberly
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of determination and the incredible support I've received throughout my career. I am driven to continuously learn, grow, and embrace new challenges, but I have also been fortunate to work alongside colleagues and executive leaders who genuinely encourage innovation and professional development. Their willingness to listen to new ideas, provide guidance, and empower me to take initiative has given me the confidence to pursue opportunities and achieve meaningful results. Having a supportive team and leadership that believes in your potential makes all the difference in turning ambition into success.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is, "Don't take no for an answer." A "no" today doesn't necessarily mean "no" forever—it may simply mean the timing isn't right or that another path will lead to the same opportunity. That mindset has taught me to be resilient, remain patient, and continue pursuing my goals with determination. Every setback is an opportunity to learn, improve, and come back stronger, and persistence often makes the difference between giving up and ultimately succeeding.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the waste and environmental services industry is to never give up. It can be a challenging field, and as a young woman, you may occasionally feel underestimated or overlooked. Stay confident in your abilities, make your voice heard, and don't be afraid to contribute your ideas and expertise. Be present, ask questions, build relationships, and actively participate rather than remaining on the sidelines. Your knowledge, perspective, and determination are valuable, and by showing up with confidence and consistency, you can earn respect and create opportunities for long-term success.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is earning the opportunity to be heard and building trust with prospective clients. In an industry built on longstanding relationships and established processes, gaining that initial credibility can take time. Another significant challenge is change management. Many organizations have followed the same procedures for decades, so introducing new technologies and more efficient ways of working requires patience, education, and a clear demonstration of value. At the same time, this presents a tremendous opportunity to help businesses modernize their operations, improve compliance, and embrace innovative solutions that increase efficiency and position them for long-term success.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me, both professionally and personally, are trust, integrity, and strong relationships. I believe that success is built on mutual respect and confidence in the people you work with and those you surround yourself with in your personal life. Whether collaborating with colleagues, serving clients, or building lasting friendships, trust creates the foundation for open communication, teamwork, and shared success. Investing in meaningful relationships has been one of the most rewarding aspects of both my career and my life.
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