For Chris Freeman, keeping Wilmington clean is more than just a daily responsibility, it’s a fast-paced, hands-on role that directly impacts the community’s quality of life. As a Solid Waste Operator, Chris primarily collects yard waste throughout the city, helping ensure neighborhoods remain clean, safe, and well-maintained. But during large-scale events like the North Carolina Azalea Festival, his role shifts into high gear.
Keeping Up with the Crowd
During the Azalea Festival, Chris is part of the team responsible for maintaining cleanliness throughout the busy downtown area. “During the festival, I help keep the downtown area clean by collecting trash, changing out full bags, and sweeping the streets,” he said. “We stay on top of it all day to make sure the area stays clean for everyone enjoying the event.” Chris works throughout the weekend, from Friday night through Sunday during the Azalea Festival, helping manage the increased demand that comes with large crowds.
More Than Meets the Eye
While festivalgoers enjoy the celebrations, Chris says many don’t realize just how quickly waste accumulates during events of this scale. “A lot of people don’t realize how fast trash builds up and how often we have to stay on top of it,” he said. “We are constantly moving, checking cans, and changing bags to keep things under control.” The numbers tell the story. In 2025 alone, Solid Waste crews collected more than 9 tons of trash during the festival weekend, matching similar totals from the year before.
Pride in the Work
Despite the demanding pace, Chris finds fulfillment in helping Wilmington stay welcoming and enjoyable for everyone. “I take pride in knowing that I am helping keep the city clean and make sure people can enjoy the festival in a safe, clean environment,” he said. “It feels good seeing the area stay nice even with big crowds.”
Always Moving Forward
Chris embraces the fast-paced nature of his job and enjoys staying active throughout the day. That same hands-on mindset carries over into his personal life. Outside of work, he enjoys working on cars and taking on challenging projects. One of his most difficult projects involved swapping a motor on a two-door Nissan Altima, a job that required removing the transmission along with the engine. His favorite car? The Nissan GT-R.
Advice for Future City Employees
For those considering a career with the City, Chris emphasizes the importance of stability. “Come in with a strong work ethic and be ready to stay consistent,” he said. “It’s rewarding work and you’re doing something that really helps the community every day.”
A Name with a Story
While many know him as Chris, his uniform tells a slightly different story. His name tag reads “Quin,” a nod to his middle name, Quintezz. Through his work in Solid Waste Services, Chris plays an essential role in keeping Wilmington clean and welcoming, ensuring residents and visitors alike can enjoy the city at its best.