Local Leadership

Donny Carder
District Manager

As the newly appointed District Manager, Donny oversees the day-to-day operations with our more than 150 employees here in the Antelope Valley. He is dedicated to providing high quality, safe service to our residents and businesses. Donny began his career in the industry in 1986 as a driver for Waste Management in Phoenix. Since that time, he has held positions as a Route Manager, Operations Manager, and Safety Manager. This type of experience is critical in his new position as District Manager.

Donny and his family have lived in the Antelope Valley since relocating Arizona in 2005. Although there are hobbies that occupy his time away from work (softball, golfing and church activities), there are three main passions in the Carder household: music, motorcycles, and people! With the growing communities of the Antelope Valley, there are numerous venues for the expression of each.

Jim Merritt
District Landfill Manager

Jim Merritt brings considerable experience and enthusiasm to his post, District Landfill Manager for Waste Management of Antelope Valley. In the solid waste profession for 23 years, Merritt remains committed to maintaining a clean community.

Currently, Merritt oversees facilities in Palmdale and Lancaster. During his tenure, the two Antelope Valley landfills have consistently adhered to or exceeded state and federal regulations. Under Merritt’s expert management, the Lancaster facility crew has maintained a perfect safety record for the past 11 years, setting a company record.

In 1980, Merritt began his career in the solid waste industry. Prior to becoming a solid waste industry devotee, Merritt worked in the construction field.

Merritt remains dedicated to improving the solid waste industry and environmental issues as a member of the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA).

Sandra Pursley
Community Relations Manager

Sandra Pursley is a life long resident of the Antelope Valley. She has a strong customer focus developed during her years spent as a customer relations manager with Pulte Homes. Sandra, a Political Science and Public Relations graduate of Arizona State University, proudly served the Arizona community while working for the NHL’s Phoenix Coyotes and Coyotes Charities. Sandra oversees the public's education on the importance of recycling in order to help the Valley meet State mandated recycling requirements. Sandra works with community leaders and government officials to develop programs to increase recycling and support community groups with outreach programs, charitable giving and partnerships. Sandra is proud to be an employee of Waste Management and is excited to provide the best service possible to the community!