About Us

Founded in 2005 The Starco system was designed and invented by a retired lawyer with an entrepreneurial bent when his wife convinced him their 55-year old kitchen was really not functional – particularly when both of them enjoyed cooking. The first Starco units were installed in their kitchen in 2002 after he visited many cabinet shops all of which proudly featured their “trash cabinet.” The founder didn’t want a trash cabinet knowing he would have to cart the trash to the garage three or four times a week, in addition to losing much needed cabinet space. The company’s name, Starco LLC stands for Started After Retirement Company, a limited liability company.

The Company logo is a stylized compass rose indicating that the founder, an avid sailor, was steadfastly committed to the highest of ethical and moral standards. We will not permit any customer, vendor, or distributor dissatisfaction and guarnatees to personally resolve all issues or problems. To this end, the Company is a member of and adhers to the ethical standards of the Kitchen and Bath Association, the National Association of Remodelers and the Home Builders Association.

The principals of Starco are personally involved in all design, manufacturing and distribution decisions. All will personally respond to your e-mail or telephone call.

Gene Owen: gowen@envirotrashconcepts.com; Gene Owen is the inventor and founder of Starco. As a retired lawyer and U.S. Army and Vietnam veteran, he has years of leadership experience in solving problems and assisting entrepeneurs. He is the chief widgeteer.

Linda Owen: Linda Owen is the original design consultant and field test coordinator. Her personal kitchen has units No. 001 and 002 which were installed in 2002. She will gladly respond to your questions on use and care of the products. Her design suggestions have resulted in several patented improvements in the basic Starco design.

Tish Owen: Tish Owen (daughter of Gene and Linda) is the East Coast Sales Manager. Following her graduation from the University of California, she became a professional sailor serving as full time crew on state-of-the-art sail and power yachts. She is a U.S. Coast Guard licensed captain (100 tours), a chef de cuisine and published author. Her cooking talents regularly put Starco to the test. She does not recommend Starco units for opening oysters.

Marilyn Oden-McGill: mmcgill@envirotrashconcepts.com; Partner and Chief Operating Officer of Starco LLC works closely with all manufacturers, distributors and customers to ensure high quality products and very happy customers.