Photo courtesy of Justin Ferguson
Justin Ferguson has been a Trussville Public Works employee for 13 years.
Thirteen years ago, when he was fresh out of high school, Justin Ferguson started working at Trussville Public Works, cutting grass and maintaining rights-of-way. His work ethic and dedication quickly led to promotions.
Within a few months, he was running a grass crew of six, and by the age of 21, he had earned his CDL license, advancing to operate dump trucks and tractors. On the job, he learned to navigate challenges far different from those on the 176-acre farm where he grew up.
“I love people, and I love being able to help the city,” Ferguson said. “We’re here to make the city look better, operate better and take care of not just the people we work for in the administration, but the residents.”
Today, as the leader of Trussville’s Public Works Department, Ferguson oversees a team of 20 responsible for everything from leaf collection to street repairs and working alongside the community at city events like Dog Daze.
“Every roadblock, every barrel you see during city events, we’ve been part of it,” Ferguson said. His team ensures Trussville not only looks good but also functions safely, helping with storm cleanups and addressing safety concerns like sinkholes and tree removal.
“We work every day, rain or shine,” Ferguson said. “There’s always work to do.”
Ferguson said his department has worked closely with the city council and mayor and has made significant progress.
"The administration has provided us with the tools we need to make things better,” he said. "Without these trucks and equipment, we couldn’t do what we do."
Mayor Buddy Choat said he appreciates Ferguson’s leadership.
“Justin displays a great attitude and work ethic, which carries over to those in his department. He takes pride in the work of his department and is always looking out for the best interest of the city,” Choat said.
Melissa Walker, the interim director of the Trussville Chamber of Commerce, commends Ferguson’s dedication to the city.
“Justin Ferguson has been an invaluable asset to the Chamber through his leadership in Public Works,” she said. “He and his team have always been there for us. We are grateful for Justin and his commitment to making our community a better place.”
Ferguson enjoys his involvement with the Trussville community, whether he’s at work or enjoying events with his wife and two daughters. Last year, the Public Works team won "Most Innovative Float" in the Christmas parade during their first time participating.
“We had lawn mowers dressed as reindeer and snow machines,” he said. "We want people in our community to know why Public Works matters."
The focus now is on growing the department. "We need specialized crews so each person can become an expert in their field—whether it's pothole repair or landscape maintenance,” Ferguson said.
His goal is to add more people to the team to maintain Trussville’s high standards and keep improving services for residents. "We’re here to help,” Ferguson said. "We care, and we want the people of Trussville to know that."
