September 11, 2025
Leading From the Field, One Big Job at a Time
In the rugged terrain of the Southwest, there’s no mistaking the hustle of Nick Gonzales. As a Field Supervisor at the Las Vegas industrial services facility, Nick has been a driving force behind some of the most challenging and high-impact environmental projects under Crystal Clean’s Patriot Environmental subsidiary for nearly a decade. Whether he is coordinating a hydroblasting crew, leading a tank cleaning, or operating heavy equipment on a one-thousand-yard excavation site, Nick brings unmatched grit, experience, and leadership to every job.
With over 20 years in the environmental services industry, Nick’s journey began back in 2004 with hands-on field work at companies specializing in environmental response and industrial services. Nearly a decade ago, he brought that experience to Patriot. He continues to stay hands on, reliable, and laser focused. “I love what I do. The time flies because no two days are ever the same,” he says.
A One-Stop Shop in the Field
Nick’s daily routine includes a balance of planning and doing. He walks job sites, coordinates equipment, supports his technicians, and builds quotes alongside the sales team. He is the type of leader who thrives in the thick of the action. “I would not trade this for an office job,” he says with a smile. “I like staying hands on. That is where I belong.”
His ability to adapt to any situation has been key to his success. “You have got to be a one-stop shop,” he explains. “No matter what the job is, we get it done.”
One of his proudest moments came while leading a massive excavation project. As he recalls, “When you finish a job like that, you step back and realize something big was accomplished.”
Empowering Through Leadership and Safety
For Nick, leadership is about listening, preparing, and protecting. He creates an environment where every team member has a voice, especially during safety meetings. “I make sure everyone understands what we are doing, and I encourage people to speak up. When the team feels heard, they stay focused and safe.”
Safety is deeply personal to Nick. “The jobs we do are dangerous. If someone gets hurt, that is on me. I never want to carry that on my conscience. Safety is the most important part of every job we take on.”
He is also a strong believer in cross training. “It is not just about getting the job done. It is about teaching others how to do it the right way and safely. That is how we grow stronger as a team.”
Support, Growth, and Looking Ahead
Nick credits Patriot’s leadership for supporting his success in the field. “If I need equipment, I can get it. If something is going to help us do the job right, the company makes sure we have it. That kind of support means everything.”
As he looks to the future, Nick hopes to see Patriot and Crystal Clean expand its waste and water treatment capabilities. “We have the talent and the tools. The more we grow, the more we can achieve.”
He also offers sound advice to new employees. “Cross train, speak up, and stay alert. We are all here to help one another succeed and stay safe.”
Beyond the Job Site
Outside of work, Nick enjoys riding motorcycles both on and off the track. He also likes to travel when he gets the chance. His favorite places so far have been Ireland and Japan, both offering a change of pace and a break from the day-to-day.
Whether leading a complex mine cleanup or mentoring the next generation of field techs, Nick Gonzales is a steady force at Patriot. He is a leader who gets the job done, builds up his team, and always puts safety first.