A salvage yard begins
After service in World War II, Meyer “Mike” Swartzman began running a salvage yard on Glendale’s west side called West Side Junk & Salvage. He bought aerospace scrap, military surplus, and metals from the public.
West Side Metal Recycling / Our history
Rooted in Glendale.
The story of West Side Metal Recycling, from a postwar salvage yard to a full-service recycling and recovery company.
Since 1946
Built, one job
at a time.
Our roots, our name changes, and the people who shaped the company.
Mark joins the team
While attending college, Mark Ringelberg began working as a laborer at the yard.
A new name
The business became West Side Metal & Salvage, dropping “junk” from its name.
A new chapter
At 4:35 p.m. on December 6, Mike sold the company to Mark and Allyn Ringelberg. They renamed it West Side Metal Recycling as recycling gained momentum in the 1980s.
Plant closure specialists
West Side became known for helping aerospace companies rightsize, including McDonnell Douglas (Boeing), Lockheed Martin, ITT, Northrop Grumman, Allied Signal, and Lorral Leiberscope.
Incorporation
West Side Metal Recycling incorporated under the name La Canada West, Inc.
Recognized for recycling
The State of California awarded West Side Metal Recycling “Best Recycler in Southern California.”
Broad experience
La Canada West, Inc. has served companies in banking and film, universities, government, and Fortune 500 businesses. The team brings recycling, e-waste collection, manpower, and logistics experience to projects of all sizes.