February 2025
Stu Fox: A Legacy of Dedication and Leadership in the Waste Industry
For 37 years, Stu Fox has been a cornerstone of the refuse industry, helping shape and grow Dobbs Peterbilt’s refuse division into what it is today. As he prepares to step into retirement, his legacy of dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to the industry stands as a testament to his remarkable career.
Stu’s journey began on a farm in southern Minnesota, where he and his identical twin brother, Steve, were raised. Their family farm, originally started by their grandfather, cultivated crops such as corn, soybeans, oats, and wheat, while also raising livestock—primarily hogs. Despite their deep-rooted agricultural background, their father encouraged them to pursue careers outside of farming. Following that advice, both brothers attended college. Stu enrolled at Moorhead State, now part of the Minnesota State system, originally as a Biology major before shifting to Marketing.
After graduating in 1979, Stu embarked on a career in sales, first with National Cash Register, where he was introduced to the evolving world of computing, and later with Nalco Chemical Company. His role with Nalco led him to relocate to Casper, Wyoming, where he and his wife, Michelle, started their life together. From there, Nalco transferred him to Williston, North Dakota, an experience that introduced them to some of the harshest winters imaginable. A record-breaking cold snap of 100 degrees below with wind chill on Christmas Eve in 1983 ultimately convinced Stu that it was time for a change. An opportunity in Southern California with his wife's uncle's company arose, and Stu and his wife decided to move to Santa Monica. The company was a distributor for Maxon Industries, where Stu later worked as the West Coast National Sales Manager and was introduced to the world of garbage trucks.
During this time, he frequently traveled to Washington to meet with the owner of Rabanco, which is now part of Republic Services. The owner of Rabanco also owned Western Peterbilt, which has since been rebranded to Dobbs Peterbilt. While visiting the dealership, Stu worked closely with one of their sales representatives, achieving significant success by selling truck bodies while they sold the trucks. The dealership’s management encouraged him to consider joining their team. Although Stu loved Southern California, he recognized that Seattle offered a lifestyle more similar to his Minnesota roots, prompting him to make the move in 1987.
Once in Seattle, he began working at Western Peterbilt, where they decided to establish a refuse division. Initially hired as a Sales Manager, Stu eventually took over the role after the sales representative he worked with left the company. At the time, the dealership had only one location, which has since expanded to over 20 locations. Tasked with developing a dedicated refuse division, Stu quickly became instrumental in its expansion, working closely with major waste management companies like Waste Connections. Over the years, he built lasting relationships, leveraging his deep understanding of equipment and industry needs to provide innovative solutions for customers. His ability to connect with clients, understand their challenges, and deliver the right products solidified his reputation as a trusted expert in the field.
Stu’s career has been marked by several significant wins. One of his most memorable accomplishments was a major sale to Republic Services, which resulted in the sale of over 40 trucks—totaling nearly $4 million. He also played a key role in helping a major contract with Clean Scapes, which was later acquired by Recology. That deal, which involved another 40-truck order, was a complex and challenging negotiation, but Dobbs was able to ensure its success. Perhaps his greatest long-term achievement has been his enduring relationship with Waste Connections, a company he has worked with for nearly 30 years. Under his guidance, it became one of Dobbs Peterbilt’s largest accounts, spanning new truck sales, parts, and service. His ability to balance technical knowledge with relationship-building has been the cornerstone of his success.
Throughout his tenure, Stu remained a constant force in an ever-evolving industry. Over the years, he witnessed a major consolidation of waste management companies, with smaller haulers and city-owned refuse departments being absorbed by giants like Waste Management, Republic Services, and Waste Connections. This shift transformed the landscape of the industry, making account retention more critical than ever.
As he prepares to retire, Stu shares valuable advice for those starting in the industry, stating, “The biggest thing is work ethic. You've got to get up and do the same thing every day. Once you figure out what makes an individual successful, which is usually hard work, diligence, and product knowledge, stick with it. You need to be consistent. It’s like the old adage, ‘The tortoise wins the race.’ It’s not about sprinting out of the gate and burning out; it's about showing up every day and doing the same things consistently. Relationships are key in sales, we don't just sell nuts and bolts or widgets. We sell specific tools and fantastic products. Developing relationships with customers is crucial for long-term success. Sales calls can’t be replaced by just phone calls; personal contact matters. Once you build those relationships, customers will see your product knowledge and intelligence when it comes to specifying trucks. You’ll make mistakes, but you need to put in the work. As you develop a reputation, everyone wants to talk to you.
Stu Fox stated, “Another key factor is the organization behind you. Without the support of service, parts, administrative departments, and management, there’s no way I could sell effectively. You might sell the first truck, but the second and third are sold by the organization. The Dobbs group has provided us with tools and a supportive environment that I didn’t have early in my career. The quality of people we have now is remarkable compared to when I started with just one dealership. I’ve enjoyed working with great colleagues, and having a supportive organization has been essential. It allows me to focus on what I do best without the pressure that often drives salespeople away. I’ve been fortunate to have that stability throughout my career, and it’s allowed me to thrive.”
As Stu transitions into retirement, he reflects on the timing of his departure. While his passion for the industry remains strong, he recognizes that now is the right time to step away. He acknowledges retirement's physical, mental, and financial aspects, balancing excitement for the future with the uncertainty of stepping away from a career that has defined much of his life. With grandkids to spend time with, a lake home to enjoy, and a long list of projects—including a few classic cars—he is looking forward to the next chapter.
Beyond his professional success, Stu is a man of consistency. He has been married to Michelle for 43 years with three daughters, living in the same Seattle home they purchased upon moving to the city—renovating it multiple times rather than leaving it behind. His ability to commit, adapt, and excel in all aspects of life speaks to the character that has defined his career.
As he transitions into retirement, Stu leaves behind an indelible mark on the refuse industry. His leadership, dedication, and passion for his work have set a standard that will not soon be forgotten. Though he may no longer be selling garbage trucks, his influence will continue to be felt throughout the industry he helped shape.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Stu Fox for his years of service. His impact is immeasurable, and his legacy will endure. Wishing him all the best in this well-earned next chapter.
#DobbsValue
Back to Blog Posts