Chicago Construction News staff writer
The Construction & Demolition Recycling Association (CDRA) has appointed Andrea “Andi” Johnson as its new executive director, the Chicago-baed organization announced Monday.
Johnson previously served as CDRA’s director of operations and brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in both nonprofit and for-profit sectors. She succeeds in her new role with a focus on advancing sustainable waste management and materials recovery across the construction and demolition (C&D) recycling industry.
“Andi’s passion for recycling and waste recovery is unmatched, and her operational expertise is exactly what CDRA needs as we continue to grow and adapt to an evolving regulatory and environmental landscape,” said CDRA Board President John Thomas in a statement. “She understands this industry from every angle—operationally, legislatively, and environmentally—and we are confident she will lead the association with both vision and heart.”
Prior to joining CDRA, Johnson was CEO of van der Linde Recycling and Container Rentals, a regional leader in recovering difficult-to-recycle materials such as mattresses, PVC and fluorescent bulbs. Under her leadership, the company became a pioneer in diverting non-curbside construction and demolition materials from landfills.
Johnson’s career spans executive roles in global energy firms and nonprofit leadership with organizations including the American Red Cross and Army Emergency Relief. She began working at van der Linde in 2012, rising from sales manager to CEO in six years.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Maryland, University College, and is a licensed Virginia Waste Facility Operator.
In her new position, Johnson will lead CDRA’s strategic planning, member service initiatives, advocacy efforts and regulatory engagement.
“For the past 30 years, the CDRA has helped to grow and unite the construction and demolition recycling industry,” Johnson said. “I am proud and honored to be selected as the next leader of this amazing association and will work diligently to continue its forward momentum.”
