ABOUT 4TH & GLASS
When the city stopped allowing glass in the curbside recycling program, Alex Stiles, like many other Knoxvillians, was disappointed and frustrated. Lots of environmental problems are too big for one person to have an impact, but this was a solvable problem. At the same time, he was working on developing the next generation of 3D printing technology and realized he if he could pick up that glass, he could turn it into highly practical, customizable products for both home residents and builders. Since then, Alex has traveled the country learning how other cities address their glass waste issues. Now 4th & Glass is here to make it easier for Knoxvillians care for the environment by keeping their glass out of landfills and using exciting recycled glass products.
Alex Stiles, PhD
Owner/Glass Tinkerer
Alex has a PhD in Energy Science and Engineering and a BS in Mechanical Engineering. While he may have finally found his calling driving a glass collection route, he's also working to develop the next generation of 3D printing technology using - you guessed it - recycled glass. This research began when Knoxville dropped curbside glass collection in part due to low scrap value and a lack of local markets for glass waste. Alex has travelled the country to learn how other cities are addressing their glass waste issues, which is why we are now tackling the problem head on by starting our own glass collection service. You can learn more about future uses for glass waste at our sister company, Vitriform3D.
Mandy Tietjen
Operations Manager
Mandy is passionate about making Knoxville a great place to live. Whether through volunteering as a member of Hard Knox Roller Derby with local charities (Mobile Meals, Chain Free Knoxville, Sunshine Ambassadors, Knox Pride, etc.) or her work with youth in local learning cooperatives, Mandy enjoys interacting with the community, and aims to leave everywhere she goes a little better than when she found it. She may not know how to operate the glass crusher just yet, but it’s only a matter of time. Until then, you can find her collecting, sorting, and preparing your glass recyclables.
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