The story of Thumbs Up Waste begins long before the company itself.
Co-founders Josh and Buster have known each other since childhood. Growing up across the street from one another and spending much of their youth together. Although life eventually took them in different directions, they reconnected in 2017 and quickly discovered that they shared similar ideals and work ethic.
Buster had spent his whole career working in the construction industry. Working with locals and gaining hands-on experience. Josh’s career path was more diverse. He served in both the fire service and law enforcement before eventually returning to the construction industry.
When the two crossed paths again, Buster was working as a framer while Josh was a contractor. After spotting Buster’s number on a work truck, Josh reached out, and the two began working together professionally. What started as a renewed friendship soon developed into a trusted business partnership built on reliability, hard work, and shared values.
The idea for Thumbs Up Waste was born in the fall of 2024 following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene across Western North Carolina. As they watched recovery efforts unfold, they noticed a recurring problem: many residents and contractors struggled to get responses from the numerous companies that rushed into the local area. Not answering calls, especially during this recovery time was incredibly frustrating.
Having spent years in the construction industry, Josh and Buster understood firsthand how important communication, dependability, and customer service are to a successful project. They believed customers & contractors deserved better. Rather than simply talk about the problem, they decided to become part of the solution.
After months of planning, they invested in their vision by purchasing their first truck and 15 dumpsters. In January 2025, Thumbs Up Waste officially opened its doors with a simple mission: provide dependable waste removal services backed by honest communication and exceptional customer care.
Since then, the company has experienced tremendous growth. By the summer of 2026, Thumbs Up Waste had expanded to a fleet of two trucks and 45 dumpsters, proudly serving customers across more than eight counties in Western North Carolina.
Despite that growth, the company’s commitment remains the same. Every customer is treated with respect, every call is answered promptly, and every job is completed with the level of service Josh and Buster would expect themselves.
They are incredibly grateful for the loyal customers, contractors, businesses, and homeowners who have supported Thumbs Up Waste from the beginning. As proud members of the local community, they look forward to continuing to provide reliable, affordable, and customer-focused waste solutions for many years to come.
At Thumbs Up Waste, we’re more than a dumpster rental company.
We’re neighbors helping neighbors keep projects moving and communities clean.