Our History
Over the decades, Stellar has not only grown into an industry leader, but has become more than the founders ever imagined was possible.
Looking back while moving forward
Stellar was founded in 1990 by three ambitious entrepreneurs: Francis Zrostlik, Jim Vlaanderen and Gary Bomstad. Stellar began as the first U.S. corporation to design and manufacture a domestic hydraulic hooklift hoist. Since its inception, Stellar has added the design and manufacturing of numerous products for an ever-expanding lineup of market-leading equipment.
Stellar is now in its second generation of leadership with more than 800 employees. While it is no longer as small as it once was, the employee-owned, community-focused company is proud to hold the same small-town values with which it began. What Stellar has achieved is possible thanks to many individuals and their hard work, dedication and accomplishments.
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Explore More
Stellar Receives President’s “E” Award for Exports
Stellar has been named as a recipient of the President’s “E” Award for a sustained increase in export sales over a four-year period.
Stellar Welcomes Southeast Regional Sales Manager for Demountables
Stellar welcomes Blair Cogburn as Regional Sales Manager in the Southeast, bringing 19 years of commercial work truck experience to the team.
Stellar Showcases Next-Generation Hooklift Innovations at WasteExpo 2024
Stellar joins WasteExpo 2024 from May 6 to 9 in Las Vegas. Visit booth 1740 to discover the new NXT68 Hooklift, a 90,000-lb pull capacity bumper and more.
Ready to Get the Job Done?
Reach out to us today. With Stellar, you don’t just get tough, reliable products and equipment. You get real solutions to real problems — designed with you in mind.