Sandy Pierce has been in the international commodity business particularly nutraceutical/pharmaceutical materials. “These industries and recycling sound completely different, but there are many overlaps in terms of logistics, commodity knowledge, quality, manufacturing and analytical needs etc. It’s good to be able to make a living while contributing to a difference,” she says. 

Professionally, she finds new ideas, processes, or businesses to be exciting and enjoys taking on projects and creating something out of nothing. Personally, she loves getting to know stories from strangers and cultivating close and strong friendships. “When I am not working, you can find me volunteering for causes relating to mental health, children, or diversity,” she adds. 

Ms. Pierce has been leading the EV Working Group and Women in Recycling Group. “I love adding value, innovating, and bringing others alongside me and helping create someone else’s thriving story. I am providing solutions to companies’ difficult recycled materials such as batteries, electronics and more.” 

When asked about the challenges women face in the recycling industry, she says, “Cultural dynamics is a hurdle. Often, women need to behave a certain way to be seen. Navigating through that is emotionally taxing and adding to the fast-paced environment, it’s hard for anyone to “survive”, let alone thrive. However, I am different in many ways and being a woman is definitely one. This is a blessing because I could be in the spotlight and be authentic, which allows me to light up hope in others and challenge the status quo.”