More Than Skills-Building: The Lasting Power of ReMA’s Mentorship Program

By: Chih-Hsuan (Sandy) Pierce

The ReMA Women in Recycling Council’s (WIR) Mentorship Program began as a vision developed by WIR leaders Brandi Harleaux and Nidhi Turakhia in 2019–2020. In 2022, Sandy Brooks and Paula Summers brought that vision to life by launching the program. I had the privilege of supporting their efforts and later leading the design and implementation of additional enhancements in 2024.

Over the past two years, we have introduced participant assessments to improve mentor-mentee matching, expanded opportunities for professional development through online networking and educational events, and secured corporate sponsorships to support our graduation celebrations. It has been incredibly rewarding to witness the program’s continued growth, which reflects both its value to participants and the strong demand for leadership development within the recycled materials industry.

As the leading international association representing the recycled materials industry, I believe ReMA has a responsibility to intentionally invest in the next generation of leaders. Industry research consistently highlights workforce succession, knowledge retention, and the transfer of expertise as critical challenges facing the recycling sector. Mentorship plays a unique role in addressing these challenges by creating opportunities for purposeful coaching, professional growth, and knowledge sharing.

Perhaps the greatest benefit of mentorship extends beyond skills development. Through intentional relationships, participants build lasting friendships, expand their professional networks, and strengthen the collaborative spirit that will help shape the future of our industry. It is inspiring to see these connections form and to know that they will continue to support both individual careers and the long-term success of the recycling community.

The ReMA Mentorship Program is open to all members.  

Chih-Hsuan (Sandy) Pierce served as the Co-Chair of ReMA’s Women in Recycling Council from 2022-2024, and as the Mentorship Program lead from 2024-2026. She is also the 2026 ReMA Young Executive of the Year Award recipient.