Today, I’m continuing my interview with Andy Ajello, the 27-year-old founder of Advanced E-Waste Solutions, which helps businesses legally dispose of electronics in an environmentally-safe manner. 

 Alex: What challenges have you faced in your experience as an entrepreneur?

Andy: Having your own business is like being in a band and playing every instrument – at the same time.  You have to be organized and adaptable, so that you can handle everything from long hours and scheduling conflicts to sudden policy changes and inclement weather.  My job is physically taxing, and at the same time it’s also the type of work you can’t totally leave at the office.  There's also a lot of competition, now that states like California have mandated E-Waste recycling.  However, my biggest challenge was when I suffered a pneumothorax (collapsed lung) and had to use all of the capital for my business paying my medical bills.

Alex:  What recommendations do you have for someone who is looking to get into E-Waste recycling?

Andy:  Become familiar with the International Association of Electronic Recyclers.  Find out what the chapters in your area are doing, get a list of the member companies, and make contact with them. You might also go to your state’s Integrated Waste Management Board and see who is certified to determine who you might approach about job opportunities. If you want to have your own business, you have to do your homework and devote one to two months of consistent planning.  It’s like a chess game, and before you make a move you better make sure you know where you’re going and have all of your assets in order. 

Alex:  Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Andy:  I hope that I can continue to run a successful business that offers affordable, reliable, and long-term electronic waste recycling and disposal solutions to public and private customers.  A study by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows that E-waste constitutes for 4% of the U.S. municipal solid waste stream, so I want to be an integral part of decreasing that across the country.  I’d like to be married and have children, and also have the freedom to pursue my many passions for education and writing. 

Thanks Andy!  For more information on E-Waste recycling, check out Andy’s Web site.