The Legacy of South Post Oak Recycling Center (SPORC)

With determination, faith, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a belief in the power of recycling, he declared, “I can feed my family on buying aluminum cans alone.” That statement was more than just a business idea—it was a commitment to creating economic opportunity for his family and others.

With Angela’s unwavering support and business acumen, the couple built SPORC from the ground up. What started as a modest operation on a vacant lot—“literally in the dirt”—soon became a lifeline for blue-collar workers, including plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians, who relied on metal recycling to support their families.

Angela played a pivotal role in shaping the business, ensuring that customer service, financial stewardship, community engagement, and integrity were always at the forefront. She worked tirelessly behind the scenes, handling operations, serving as a general contractor for SPORC, and fostering relationships that helped SPORC grow into a trusted name in the industry.

As demand grew, so did SPORC. The company expanded beyond small-scale recycling and started servicing manufacturers, corporations, construction firms, government agencies, and industrial operations—becoming a recognized trusted leader in the industry while staying true to its grassroots foundation.

Now celebrating 30+ years in business, SPORC continues to thrive under the second-generation leadership of Brandi Harleaux. After a successful corporate career, Brandi joined the family business in 2014, bringing fresh insight and a commitment to driving SPORC into the future—all while maintaining SPORC’s core values and foundational successes.

Brandi’s leadership is centered on three core pillars:

Sustainability & Innovation – Enhancing recycling efficiency and developing forward-thinking solutions that align with the circular economy.

Community & Workforce Development – Creating opportunities through mentorship, education, and second-chance employment.

Diversity & Industry Leadership – Advocating for women in recycling, minority-owned businesses, and workforce inclusion in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Brandi is a recognized leader in the industry, serving as Co-Chair of the Recycled Materials Association (ReMA) National Women in Recycling Council and actively participating in industry boards and sustainability initiatives. She has served on the National and Gulf Coast boards of ReMA in several capacities, including Chair of Challenges and Opportunities, Co-Chair of Workforce Development, Chair of Environmental Justice, and Co-Chair of Women in Recycling. She is deeply committed to mentoring young entrepreneurs, increasing access to STEM education, and championing diversity in recycling and manufacturing.

Under her leadership, SPORC has modernized its operations, expanded its impact, and strengthened its commitment to creating a more sustainable world.

SPORC is more than a recycling center—it is a cornerstone of the community. Our work goes beyond processing metals; it is about fostering sustainability, creating economic opportunities, and uplifting the people we serve. We partner with universities to build a pipeline of talent, highly skilled workers, and entry-level professionals. Through our second-chance employment program, over half of our workforce consists of individuals seeking a fresh start, reinforcing our belief that recycling should benefit both materials for a lifespan and people. We take pride in supporting local initiatives, from back-to-school drives that equip students with essential resources to workforce development programs that empower individuals with new skills and opportunities.

Our impact extends beyond Houston, reaching national and global markets through strategic partnerships, advocacy, and education. By keeping metals in circulation, we actively reduce landfill waste, lower carbon emissions, and preserve natural resources. We are not just in the business of recycling; we are in the business of transformation—helping businesses, individuals, and entire industries embrace sustainability while driving economic growth.

Through every ton of metal recycled, every job created, and every community program supported, SPORC remains dedicated to making a lasting impact. Our mission is clear: to serve our customers with excellence, to enable environmental responsibility, and to shape a cleaner, more sustainable world.