Monte Niemi is widely recognized as the pioneer in developing and advancing the use of Tire-Derived Aggregate (TDA) in civil engineering applications. A patent holder and lifelong innovator, Monte is the founder and CEO of First State Tire Recycling & TDA Manufacturing, headquartered in Minnesota. I.DO. TDA INC. In Michigan.
His groundbreaking work began in 1984, when he proposed and installed test sections using shredded tires (TDA) in place of traditional log corduroy for ditch bank roads in partnership with the Minnesota DNR. That project marked the start of a career dedicated to transforming discarded tires into a valuable resource for infrastructure and environmental solutions.
Since that first installation, Monte has supplied TDA for more than 400 projects and has remained on the leading edge of innovative applications. His contributions include Floating roads over Marginal Soils, Side Slope Stabilizations, Commercial Rain Gardens, Private Septic Systems, Geothermal Heating and Cooling projects, TDA Stormwater Infiltration Galleries that meet State and Federal Stormwater Requirements, Biking/walking trail construction, and more.
Under Monte’s leadership, First State Tire Recycling has processed and supplied more than 65 million end-of-life tires for use in construction projects across the country.
Monte’s mission extends beyond business. He has worked tirelessly to connect geotechnical engineers with TDA manufacturers nationwide, fostering collaboration and education around TDA’s ten engineering properties. Through outreach and continuing education, he has helped shift society’s perception of waste tires from an environmental burden to a sustainable resource.
His current research and advocacy focus on demonstrating TDA’s ability to filter contaminants from stormwater, documenting methods for its use in stormwater systems, and supporting policy changes to expand its adoption.
Monte’s vision is embodied in the Full Circle Recycling Program, which gives new life to end-of-life tires by shredding them into ASTM 6270-compliant TDA. Through this work, he continues to help shape the future of sustainable infrastructure while building on four decades of innovation.