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 Highlights Industry-Leading Work Truck Solutions at NTEA’s Work Truck Week 2026
See the new 2026 TMAX Aluminum Mechanic Truck and EC3200 Electric Service Crane, plus the NXT24 Hooklift and Single-Axle Lube Truck at the show.
Stellar and Elliott Equipment Company Debut Collective Equipment Lineup at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026
Stellar and Elliott will display their collective lineup at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, putting their strengths together on the industry’s biggest stage.
Stellar Announces Tire Sales Team Updates
Dylan Rycroft and Jeremy Edds join Stellar, Tom Formanek is promoted to Director of Sales and Travis Glidden prepares for retirement.
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.