Ace Green Recycling Expands Leadership with Rick Stollsteimer as SVP of Operations
Ace Green Recycling, a prominent leader in sustainable battery recycling solutions, has announced a significant leadership appointment aimed at bolstering its operational capabilities. Rick Stollsteimer, an industry veteran with extensive experience in battery recycling processes, has joined the company as Senior Vice President of Operations. Stollsteimer's transition from Gopher Resource, where he previously held the position of Vice President of Operations, marks a strategic move that underscores Ace's commitment to enhancing its operational infrastructure.
At Gopher Resource, Stollsteimer managed a high-functioning smelting facility operating year-round, which was producing over 175,000 tons of finished products annually. His leadership there was pivotal; he implemented transformative initiatives that not only improved safety metrics but also increased operational uptime, achieving world-class benchmarks. His track record of enhancing output efficiency will undoubtedly benefit Ace Green Recycling as it prepares to scale its operations significantly.
In his new role at Ace, based in Silsbee, Texas, Stollsteimer will oversee the launch and expansion of Ace’s flagship recycling facility, which is poised to set the standard for zero-emission battery recycling in North America. This facility is the first large-scale site ready to implement Ace’s innovative GREENLEAD® technology and its lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery recycling system. Scheduled to activate its lead-acid recycling system in 2026 and to follow with its LFP lithium-ion capabilities in 2027, the Texas site aims to serve as a model for similar operations throughout the continent.
Stollsteimer expressed enthusiasm about joining Ace, stating, "I've faced the challenges and limitations associated with traditional smelting processes. The proprietary technology developed by Ace eliminates the need for high-temperature furnaces, paving the way for a smarter, safer, and more sustainable approach to battery recycling." This commitment to innovation signifies an essential shift in the recycling landscape, addressing both environmental and efficiency concerns, aligning perfectly with current sustainability goals in the industry.
Nishchay Chadha, CEO and Co-Founder of Ace Green Recycling, hailed Stollsteimer's hiring as a significant validation of the company's mission to create a cleaner and more efficient battery recycling ecosystem in the United States. Chadha noted that Stollsteimer's extensive experience and proven operational excellence would be crucial as they advance their zero-emission technologies and expand operations.
Founded in Delaware, Ace Green Recycling specializes in offering innovative, sustainable end-of-life solutions for battery recycling, focusing on both lithium and lead batteries commonly found in various sectors such as electronics, automotive, and energy storage. The company aims to deploy modular operations that maintain carbon emissions-free standards while catering to a market that demands effective waste management solutions. With Stollsteimer’s leadership, Ace plans to strengthen its foothold further in the market while contributing positively to the environment by promoting recycling practices that align with modern sustainability efforts.
Looking ahead, Ace Green Recycling is establishing a foundation that blends efficiency with ecological responsibility, a dual focus essential for future growth in the battery recycling industry. As they adapt to meet the increasing demands for sustainable practices, Stollsteimer's appointment might prove to be a significant catalyst in achieving the ambitious goals set by Ace Green Recycling and revolutionizing how battery recycling operates at scale.