By Executive Director Andi Johnson
Our industry is not easy. It takes dedication and grit. Getting to see firsthand where our members work, watching them solve problems as they work on the front lines of C&D material recovery, build crushing equipment, or inform and educate the industry, is inspiring. In July, I had the privilege of visiting seven of our member locations to see their businesses firsthand. The Member Highlights that follow give a glimpse of your fellow members in action.
Frank Road Recycling Solutions – Grove City, OH
In the greater Columbus area, Frank Road Recycling Solutions stands out as a model of operational excellence and environmental responsibility. Owned by the Loewendick family and led by Derek Barnett and Ken Pennington, this facility has been serving Central Ohio for over 75 years.
What struck me immediately was their deep commitment to safety and their people. But equally impressive is their approach to material recovery. As both a landfill and recycling facility, they prioritize harvesting usable materials over simply burying them. Through a combination of machine and hand sorting, they’re achieving significant diversion rates. They also process concrete, brick, and block into gravel, further reducing landfill impact.
CEO Tony Repeta is leading the charge toward RCI certification, which will provide third-party verification of their diversion rates—an important step for LEED projects and customer trust.
Eagle Crusher – Bucyrus, OH
With over 100 years in business, Eagle Crusher is part of the elite 0.05% of U.S. companies that have stood the test of time. I had the pleasure of touring one of their manufacturing plants with Dan Friedman, VP of Marketing, and was blown away by the scale and precision of their operations.
From raw metal parts to fully assembled machines, the production process is a masterclass in engineering. Dan walked me through each step, explaining how every component contributes to the final product. Their screen deck manufacturing was especially fascinating—each one tailored to meet specific customer needs. It’s no wonder Eagle Crusher is a name synonymous with innovation in the recycling equipment space.
Boyas Recycling – Cleveland, OH
Spanning over 300 acres, Boyas Recycling is one of the largest facilities I’ve ever visited. But it’s not just the size that’s impressive—it’s the quality of their recycled products and the vision of owner Pete Ristagno.
Pete has made substantial investments in screening equipment to ensure top-tier product quality. What’s even more remarkable is his commitment to keeping material out of the landfill, despite owning one. He’s currently building a state-of-the-art facility that reflects his belief in sustainable practices. His affiliated hauling company, Pete & Pete Container Service, complements this mission by ensuring efficient material flow.
GIE Media – Cleveland, OH
If you’re in the waste and recycling industry, chances are you’ve read something published by GIE Media. From Waste Today to Construction & Demolition Recycling, their publications are essential reading.
During my visit, Jim Keefe, Executive VP and Group Publisher, gave me a tour of their offices. Beyond the impressive team and operations, what stood out was the role GIE plays in shaping our industry. Their magazines don’t just inform—they document the evolution of recycling, spotlight emerging professionals, and honor industry pioneers. For over 35 years, they’ve been a trusted voice and a vital resource.
Dumpsters.com – Cleveland, OH
Walking into the offices of Dumpsters.com, two banners immediately caught my eye: “INC 5000 Fastest Growing Companies” (8 years running) and “Cleveland’s Top Places to Work” (15 years straight). These accolades speak volumes about their culture and impact.
As a managed service provider, Dumpsters.com is changing how national contractors approach waste and recycling. I spent time with their National Strategic Partnership Managers—Dan Joyce, Mike Brachman, Chris Kotkowski, and Matt Windahl—who know our members by name. Their advice to haulers and recyclers? Make yourself visible. Register your services on their platform so you’re ready when opportunities arise.
C&D Waste Solutions – Canton, OH
Founded by Rick Marino and Nick Bobkoske, C&D Waste Solutions is a new facility with big ambitions. Though not yet open to the public, they’re already processing material from customers using their affiliated service, Cobra Roll-off.
Even in its early stages, the facility is recovering concrete, brick, block, wood, metal, and green waste—materials that would otherwise be landfilled. Their progress is exciting, and we at CDRA are eager to see how they grow.
Michael Brothers Recycling – Pittsburgh, PA
Owned by the Milani family, Michael Brothers Recycling has grown from a hauling company into the leading C&D recycler in the Pittsburgh area. With four locations, they’re not just expanding—they’re innovating.
Sons Tom and Rob Milani are focused on increasing recovery rates and streamlining operations. Their facilities are clean, efficient, and safety-focused. They’re also pursuing RCI certification, which would make them only the third facility in Pennsylvania to achieve this distinction.
These visits have been a powerful reminder of the passion and innovation that define CDRA’s membership. From legacy manufacturers to emerging recyclers, each of these companies is helping to build a more sustainable future – one load at a time.