Stellar Industries celebrates its 35th anniversary this year, marking a legacy of innovation, growth and customer-centric service.
Founded in 1990 by three ambitious entrepreneurs — Francis Zrostlik, Jim Vlaanderen and Gary Bomstad — Stellar began its journey as the first U.S. company to design and manufacture a domestic hydraulic hooklift. Over the past three and a half decades, Stellar has grown from a small-town operation in Garner, Iowa, to a global force in the construction, waste and work truck industries.
“We are incredibly proud of the 35 years of progress Stellar has made,” said Dave Zrostlik, President of Stellar. “What began as a small, dedicated team working tirelessly to create reliable, high-quality products has evolved into a company that impacts industries across the globe. Our employees have been the key to our success. Some of them have been with us since the very early days of the company’s existence, bringing their passion and expertise to every product we create. The company’s accomplishments reflect their hard work and the relationships we’ve built with our customers and distributors.”
A Legacy of Innovation and Leadership
Stellar’s journey has been marked by groundbreaking products and innovations. In 1999, the company introduced its first telescopic service crane, which quickly became a game-changer. Since then, Stellar has continually expanded its product portfolio, offering market-leading solutions such as patented aluminum mechanic truck bodies, tire handling equipment, hooklifts and more.
In 2023, Stellar achieved a monumental milestone by becoming 100% employee owned. The transition to 100% employee ownership has further deepened the sense of commitment and pride within the workforce, allowing each team member to directly benefit from the company’s growth and achievements. Stellar now has more than 800 employee-owners, each of whom is integral to the company’s day-to-day operations and long-term strategy.
“This transition to 100% employee ownership was a game-changer for us,” said Zrostlik. “This shift has further cemented a culture of accountability and shared success, where everyone is aligned in driving Stellar forward. It’s a powerful incentive for excellence because every employee has a personal stake in our continued success.”
Growth from the Ground Up with Stellar’s Own Manufactured Equipment and Strategic Acquisitions
Since its founding, Stellar has not only built a strong foundation through the design and manufacturing of its own equipment but has also grown through strategic acquisitions that have fueled its expansion.
Stellar has strategically acquired other like-minded companies to broaden its product offerings and strengthen its position within the industry. These acquisitions have allowed Stellar to expand into new markets and further solidify its leadership in the work truck solutions sector.
One of the most significant acquisitions in recent years was the purchase of Elliott Machine Works of Galion, Ohio, another rural American-based company that shares Stellar’s commitment to quality. By bringing Elliott Machine Works into the Stellar portfolio of products, the company added a renowned line of fuel trucks, lube trucks, water trucks, lube skids, vacuum tanks and other mobile service equipment. This acquisition not only expanded Stellar’s reach into new markets but also aligned with its core values of providing reliable, durable equipment that meets the evolving needs of industries across the globe.
Expanding Globally, Staying Rooted in Community
Though Stellar’s roots are firmly planted in the heartland of America, the company’s impact is felt on a global scale. The company was recently recognized with the prestigious E Award for exports, honoring its success in expanding its global footprint. Stellar’s presence at bauma 2025 in Germany, marking the company’s first appearance at the international exhibition, reflects its growing reach.
Alongside its global growth, Stellar has remained deeply committed to its local community. The company’s foundational values are rooted in the belief that success should benefit not only the business but the area it calls home. Since its 30th anniversary, Stellar has made several significant contributions to the community. These include the donation of a collaborative robot (cobot) to North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) to enhance its advanced manufacturing program. Additionally, Stellar’s commitment to local youth is evident in the development of the Stellar Sports Complex, a state-of-the-art facility that provides opportunities for recreational sports and community engagement. By investing in the development of its local infrastructure, Stellar has helped ensure that its success not only benefits the company but fosters growth, education and opportunity for future generations in Garner and beyond.
Looking to the Future
As Stellar celebrates this notable anniversary, Zrostlik looks ahead with excitement. “Reaching 35 years is an incredible milestone, but we’re not stopping here,” said Zrostlik. “We’re continuously looking for new challenges and ways to improve. The future is bright, and we’re ready to take on the next problem and find innovative solutions for it.”
For more information about Stellar, please visit stellarindustries.com.