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.
1993
1999
2002
2008
2011
2011
2013
2015
2017
2021
2023
2023
2024
Explore More
From Small-Town Roots to Global Impact: Stellar Celebrates 35 Years
Stellar celebrates its 35th anniversary—honoring the employees, distributors, and customers behind American-made, innovative work trucks, trailers and accessories.
Stellar Expands NXT Series with Versatile New NXT24 and NXT30 Hooklifts
Introducing Stellar’s new NXT24 and NXT30 Hooklifts — engineered for flexibility and power. Ideal for waste, construction and government applications.
[VIDEOS] Stellar Makes Debut at bauma 2025, Showcasing OTR Tire Service Truck and Strengthening Global Partnerships
Stellar showcased the innovative TM16160/28000 Large OTR Tire Service Truck at bauma 2025. See the recap here.
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.