30 SEPTEMBER 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® From Small-Town Roots to Global Impact Adapted from Information by Stellar Industries Stellar Industries, a manufacturer of high-quality mechanic and service trucks and cranes; service truck and van accessories; tire trucks and manipulators; as well as hooklifts, fuel and lube trucks, and trailers, was founded in 1990 by three ambitious entrepreneurs - Francis Zrostlik, Jim Vlaanderen, and Gary Bomstad. Touted as the first U.S. company to design and manufacture a domestic hydraulic hooklift, over the last three and a half decades, the business has grown from a small-town operation in Garner, Iowa, to a global force in the construction, waste, and work truck industries. In 1999, Stellar introduced its first telescopic service crane, which quickly became a game changer. Since then, the business 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 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. Since its founding, the company has also grown through strategic acquisitions. Stellar acquired other like-minded companies to broaden its product offerings and strengthen its position within the industry, allowing expansion into new markets to further solidify 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 business with a commitment to quality. Bringing Elliott Machine Works into the Stellar portfolio of products added a renowned line of fuel trucks, lube trucks, water trucks, lube skids, vacuum tanks, and other mobile service equipment. Still deeply committed to local community, Stellar has made several significant contributions, including the donation of a collaborative robot to North Iowa Area Community College to enhance its advanced manufacturing program. The company also developed the Stellar Sports Complex for youth recreational sports and community engagement. Investing in local infrastructure ensures Stellar’s success fosters growth, education, and opportunity for future generations in Garner and beyond. The company’s endeavors were recognized in the fall of 2024, with the Legacy Award given each year to a business which significantly contributed to North Iowa through vision, leadership, job creation, and economic impact. Though firmly planted in the heartland of America, Stellar’s impact is felt on a global scale. Last year, the company was honored by the U.S. Department of Commerce with the prestigious “E” Award for export achievements, showcasing its global footprint. Another reflection of growing reach was Stellar’s presence at bauma 2025 in Germany, marking their first appearance at the international exhibition. As Stellar celebrates this notable anniversary, President Dave Zrostlik looks ahead with excitement. “Reaching 35 years is an incredible milestone, but we’re not stopping here. We’re continuously looking for new challenges and ways to improve . . . and we’re ready to take on the next problem and find innovative solutions for it,” he said. CONST www.starironworks.com 257 Caroline Street Punxsutawney, PA 15767 800-927-0560 • 814-427-2555 Fax: 814-427-5164 Serving the Water Well Industry
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