Generations of recycling, working for you

Our History

Starting as Louie's Wrecking Yard in 1943, what would eventually become STJ Corporate Recycling has been family owned for decades. Based originally on automobile recycling, Kurt Cornelius took over the business after working with original owner Louie Morrison in 1994. In 2010 Steve The Junkman was formed to focus on not only automobile recycling but scrap metal as a whole. Now, the changing needs of businesses and increased focus on corporate sustainability have led to another broadening of scope and creation of STJ Corporate Recycling.

Management and employees at STJ work together, not just metaphorically, but literally hands on laboring when needed. A focus on safety, proper training, and hard work makes sure all are able to get the job done efficiently for you, and make it home safely as well.

Kurt Cornelius

Starting with pulling parts in the wrecking yard, Kurt has had the entire ground up experience of the recycling industry. Originally branching out Louie's Wrecking Yard to Delano Dismantling & Towing, then Louie's Towing in Bakersfield, Kurt refocused on scrap metal recycling as a whole with the creation of Steve The Junkman (business name based on living junkman legend Steve Edwards). Kurt sets the tone of STJ Corporate Recycling, leading the charge with a hands on mentality of hard work that is shared by everyone in the company.

Kasem Cornelius

Growing up picking up bolts in the back of Louie's Wrecking Yard, Kasem attended and graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo's Orfalea College of Business with a degree in Accounting. Upon graduation Kasem started the Central Coast branch of the family business in Paso Robles in 2011. 

Glad to be a part of the start and growth of STJ Corporate Recycling, Kasem oversees safety training and on-site management.