CDRA appoints new executive director

The Construction & Demolition Recycling Association (CDRA) has appointed Andrea "Andi" Johnson as its new executive director.

Johnson, who previously served as the CDRA's director of operations, brings more than 25 years of leadership experience across both nonprofit and for-profit sectors, as well as a deep personal commitment to sustainable waste management and materials recovery.

As an industry leader, Johnson previously served as CEO of van der Linde Recycling and Container Rentals, where she has led the company's mission to care for people, communities, and the planet through innovative recovery and recycling efforts. Under her leadership, the organization has become a regional pioneer in diverting non-curbside materials from landfills, encompassing a wide range of materials, from construction and demolition debris to hard-to-recycle items such as mattresses, PVC, and fluorescent bulbs.

Johnson's career includes extensive experience in administrative leadership, including 13 years in nonprofit roles with organizations such as the American Red Cross and Army Emergency Relief, followed by executive roles in global energy companies. Since 2012, she has played a central role at van der Linde Recycling, where she progressed from sales manager to CEO over six years. She holds a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Maryland, University College, and is a licensed Virginia Waste Facility Operator.

In her new role, Johnson will guide the CDRA's strategic initiatives, expand member services, strengthen advocacy and regulatory engagement, and amplify the organization's mission of promoting environmentally responsible construction and demolition recycling.

"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 John Thomas, president of the CDRA Board of Directors. "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."

"For the past 30 years, the CDRA has helped to grow and unite the construction and demolition recycling industry. I am proud and honoured to be selected as the next leader of this amazing association and will work diligently to continue its forward momentum," said Johnson.