Stellar celebrates 35 years of growth and employee ownership. Founded in Garner, Iowa in 1990, Stellar Industries has grown into a global manufacturer of mechanic trucks, cranes, hooklifts, trailers, tire manipulators, and service truck accessories.
Growing From Small-Town Roots
Francis Zrostlik, Jim Vlaanderen, and Gary Bomstad launched Stellar, making it the first U.S. company to produce a domestically manufactured hydraulic hooklift. Over the past three decades, Stellar has expanded its reach across the construction, utility, and waste industries.
“We are incredibly proud of the 35 years of progress Stellar has made,” said Dave Zrostlik, President of Stellar. “Our employees have been the key to our success. Their passion and expertise are reflected in every product we create, and our company’s accomplishments show their hard work and the relationships we’ve built with our customers and distributors.”
Stellar Industries Employee Ownership
Since its founding, Stellar has introduced industry-first products, including its first telescopic service crane in 1999 and a full line of aluminum mechanic bodies, hooklifts, and tire handling tools.
In 2023, Stellar became 100% employee owned. Today, over 800 employee-owners drive the company forward with a shared investment in its success.
“This transition to 100% employee ownership was a significant moment for us,” said Zrostlik. “It has strengthened a culture of accountability and shared success.”
Stellar Industries Celebrates 35 Years: Acquisition and Manufacturing Expansion
Stellar has grown through strategic acquisitions, including the addition of Elliott Machine Works in Galion, Ohio. That acquisition brought a new lineup of fuel and lube trucks, water trucks, vacuum tanks, and skids into Stellar’s portfolio.
Global Reach, Local Commitment
The U.S. Department of Commerce recently recognized Stellar’s international expansion with the E Award for exports. The company’s presence at bauma 2025 in Germany highlights its global ambitions.
“Reaching 35 years is significant, but we’re continuing to look for new challenges and ways to improve,” said Zrostlik. “The future is bright.”
