Professional Background and Experience
Mike McCracken currently serves as the President and CEO of Far West Recycling, a leading recycling company headquartered in Tualatin, Oregon. He has been with the company since 1989, starting as a part-time warehouseman during the summer to earn money for college. Over the course of more than three decades, Mike has advanced through several key leadership roles:
- 1997: Promoted to Plant Manager at Far West Recycling’s Northeast plant.
- 2005: Elevated to Chief Financial Officer (CFO) / Vice President.
- 2021: Assumed role of President and CEO following the retirement of Keith Ristau.
His long tenure reflects deep institutional knowledge and a progressive leadership trajectory within Far West Recycling.
Education
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in General Science from the University of Oregon (Graduated in 1993).
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Accounting and Finance from the University of Portland (2002–2004).
- Additional Bachelor of Science (BS) in Information Technology from University of Phoenix (as per LinkedIn profile).
- Graduated from Sunset High School in 1987.
Mike’s educational background combines science, business, finance, and information technology, equipping him with cross-disciplinary expertise relevant to managing operations and financial strategies in the recycling industry.
Leadership and Responsibilities
As President and CEO, Mike McCracken provides overall leadership to Far West Recycling by collaborating with the board of directors and executive management team to set both short-term and long-term strategic goals, plans, and corporate strategies. His role involves ensuring operational efficiency and supporting sustainable growth aligned with the company’s mission.
Company Overview: Far West Recycling
Far West Recycling offers comprehensive recycling solutions, including:
- Paper Recycling: Cardboard, scrap paper, magazines, office paper, aseptic cartons, and books.
- Plastic Recycling: #1 and #2 plastic bottles.
- Metal Recycling: Tin cans, copper, aluminum, and steel.
- Electronics Recycling: Computers, monitors, printers, laptops, TVs, and more.
- Glass Recycling: A four-step process involving crushing, cleaning, separating, and making new glass.
The company operates a metals site located at 9665 SW Tualatin-Sherwood Rd, Tualatin, OR 97062, with expanded operating hours effective August 4, 2025, opening at 7:00 AM Monday through Friday.
Industry and Community Engagement
Under McCracken’s leadership, Far West Recycling was the first Material Recovery Facility (MRF) to achieve RIOS certification, signifying a rigorous commitment to environmental responsibility and operational excellence. The company emphasizes improving the quality of life for its employees and supporting the communities in which it operates.
Mike has also been involved in broader industry activities, including contributions recognized in environmental frameworks related to recycling terminology and lifecycle design, indicating an active role in advancing recycling standards beyond his company.
Contact Information Relevant to Corporate Communication
- Phone: +1 (503) 255-2299
- Email: info@farwestrecycling.com
- LinkedIn: [Mike McCracken](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-mccracken-19859a5)
- Company Website: [Far West Recycling](https://farwestrecycling.com/)
Notable Achievements and Contributions
- Instrumental in advancing Far West Recycling’s operational capacity and reputation over a 30+ year career.
- Transitioned from finance-focused leadership (CFO) to CEO, indicating strong financial acumen coupled with operational leadership.
- Led the company through expanded operational hours and service enhancement initiatives.
- Active contributor to the improvement of recycling industry practices and frameworks.
- Recognized as a key figure during pivotal industry mergers and collaborations in the recycling sector, including uniting industry entities during the 2012 Environmental Industry Association merger.
Summary
Mike McCracken’s extended career progression within Far West Recycling, supported by his advanced education in finance and information technology, positions him as a knowledgeable and strategic leader focused on scaling the company’s recycling operations while maintaining rigorous standards in sustainability and community support. His understanding of both the financial and operational aspects of waste management and recycling, combined with his commitment to certifications like RIOS, reflects a data-driven, compliant, and forward-looking leadership approach essential within the evolving recycling industry landscape.
