Precision Manufacturing Rooted in Experience, Driven by Innovation

Sterling Industries is a trusted CNC machining and manufacturing company with over 70 years of heritage, based in Columbus, Indiana. We specialize in precision-machined components and assemblies for the automotive, industrial, fuel, and aftermarket sectors. 
With two strategically located facilities — Sterling North and Sterling South — totaling 70,000 square feet, our team delivers exceptional quality, rapid prototyping, and scalable production runs with tolerances as tight as ±0.0005 inches. We are ISO 9001:2015 certified, WBE-certified (Women Business Enterprise), and proud to be a privately owned company that puts people, performance, and precision first.
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Sterling North Plant – Established 1996

Originally founded by Larry Sterling, our North facility has evolved into a leading machining operation for balanced pulleys, transmission components, crankshaft adapters, and other high-performance parts. In 2019, Sterling was acquired by Pete Ariens and The NumaGroup, who continue to invest in expanding the company’s equipment and engineering capabilities.
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Sterling South Plant – Founded in 1949

The South facility began as Hoosier Tool & Die and brings a legacy of quality machining to fuel, hydraulic, and brake system components. After several transitions, Pete Ariens acquired the plant in 2016. In 2023, Sheila Rossmann joined the ownership group, officially certifying Sterling Industries as a WBE (Women Business Enterprise). Together, these two operations form a cohesive, agile organization capable of producing complex, close-tolerance parts for demanding industries.
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⚙️ What We Do

Sterling Industries offers full-service, end-to-end manufacturing solutions, including:
CNC Machining (Swiss turning, milling, turning, grinding)
Fixture & Tooling Design
Prototyping and Job Shop Services
Assembly & Functional Testing
Balancing, Honing, OD and Blanchard Grinding

We machine a wide range of materials, including:

Cast Iron & Ductile Iron
Stainless Steel
Aluminum & Steel Alloys
We handle volume from 1 to 3,000 units, offering both short-run and production machining.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Our Team & Values

At Sterling, we value more than just machines — we value people.
Our team of 45 skilled associates includes machinists, engineers, quality inspectors, and operations staff who uphold the following values every day:
Dependable – Responsible, disciplined, and hard-working
Adaptable – Self-starters who are solution-oriented and flexible
Cooperative – Team-focused with a commitment to shared success
Innovative Problem Solvers – Analytical, creative, and resourceful

The People of Sterling

Sterling Industries’ management and operations staff is a diverse group of professionals with combined manufacturing experience of over 100 years.

Sheila Rossmann

President
Shelia Rossmann is the Owner and President of Sterling Industries...
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peter c ariens

vice president
Peter C. Ariens is the Chief Executive Officer of NuMA Group, Inc....
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Joe Hetzer

vice President, operations
Joe Hetzer brings over three decades of extensive experience in the...
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joe johnson

Director of business development and engineering
Joe is a highly accomplished engineering and business leader with decade...
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Travis Watson

 Executive Vice President
Travis Watson is an accomplished executive business leader with...
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Let’s Work Together

We are committed to building long-term partnerships by delivering precision, flexibility, and speed with every project. Whether you need help prototyping a new design or ramping up a high-volume program, our team is ready.
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Our Mission & Vision

Our Vision

To provide sustainable growth opportunities for employees, customers, and partners alike — grounded in the power of diversity, the strength of family values, and the pursuit of high-performance machining excellence.

 Certifications & Compliance

ISO 9001:2015 Certified – For consistent quality across every process
WBE Certified – Proudly woman-owned as of 2023
Advanced Quality Equipment – Including CMMs, Oasis Vision System, Reflex comparator, and more

Our Mission

To be a dependable partner in precision machining — delivering consistent quality, reliable turnaround, and engineered solutions that help our customers succeed.

Our Locations

Sterling North Plant
4015 N. Long Rd.
Columbus, IN 47203
40,000 sq. ft. manufacturing
Sterling South Plant
2860 N. National Rd.
Columbus, IN 47201
30,000 sq. ft. manufacturing

Travis Watson

Travis Watson is a results-driven business executive with a strong background in strategic growth, operational excellence, and servant leadership. He has led engineering and manufacturing teams across industries such as aerospace, clean energy, and high-performance vehicles, delivering significant improvements in performance, sales, and quality systems. With experience in roles ranging from Account Manager, Plant Manager to Director of Sales and Operations, Travis has overseen ERP implementations, contract negotiations, and cross-functional team development. His leadership has consistently driven efficiency, employee engagement, and profitability. Travis holds dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Marketing and Distribution Management from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. He is a Six Sigma Green Belt, CAPM certified, and holds a CPIM designation. Known for developing people and driving strategic execution, he has been a key contributor to multiple high-performing teams.

Joe Johnson

Joe is a highly accomplished engineering and business leader with decades of experience in mechanical engineering, manufacturing, aerospace, and business development. His career began at Delta Faucet Co., where he honed his skills before moving on to Cummins Engine Co. as a Fuel Systems Product Engineer. He further advanced his expertise as an afterburner specialist for Pratt & Whitney Aircraft.

As a seasoned entrepreneur, Joe co-founded ReGin Manufacturing, successfully growing the company into a $10 million enterprise before its acquisition. He later served as the Engineering Manager at Advance Aero Inc..

Recently, Joe transitioned from his role as Director of Operations at Paramount Industrial and Sterling Industries to become the Director of Business Development and Engineering. In this role he is focused on supporting strategic growth and leveraging his extensive background to drive innovation and success in the industry.

Joe Hetzer

Joe Hetzer brings over three decades of extensive experience in the manufacturing sector, with a specialized focus on the aerospace and automotive industries. Throughout his career, Joe has demonstrated a profound commitment to engineering and manufacturing excellence, making significant contributions to various projects and initiatives.

As a team builder, Joe employs a servant leadership approach, fostering an environment where collaboration and growth are paramount. His ability to inspire and empower teams has made him a respected leader in his field, driving innovation and operational improvements.
A recognized change agent, Joe is dedicated to maximizing productivity and efficiency within organizations. His strategic mindset and hands-on experience enable him to implement effective processes that not only enhance performance but also promote sustainability in manufacturing practices.

With a passion for developing talent and a keen eye for industry trends, Joe Hetzer continues to make a meaningful impact in the manufacturing landscape, ensuring that teams are well-equipped to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Peter C. Ariens

Peter C. Ariens is the Chief Executive Officer of NuMA Group, Inc., a private holding company engaged in the automotive, aerospace, defense, recreational, and heavy-duty industries. Under his leadership, NuMA encompasses several companies that manufacture and distribute critical components for some of the world's largest enterprises, with four manufacturing facilities located in Indiana.Before his role at NuMA Group, Peter served as President of Stens Corporation for 18 years, where he led the international parts manufacturing and distribution company until its acquisition by private equity in 2016.In addition to his executive role at NuMA, Peter actively contributes to various for-profit and non-profit boards, including:Two Ladders, Tell City, Indiana
South Central Inc., Evansville, Indiana
Toolsey, Inc., Indianapolis
He is also a member of professional organizations such as Vistage International and the Alliance of Indiana, affiliated with the IU Kelley School of Business. Previously, Peter held the position of Treasurer on the Trieste board.
NOTE: This application form was designed for use by persons applying for operational associate positions. This application will be considered valid for 90 days after the date of application. 
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Shelia Rossmann

Shelia Rossmann is the Owner and President of Sterling Industries, Inc. and Paramount Industrial, Inc., where she has established herself as an accomplished and results-oriented businesswoman in the manufacturing sector. As a Senior Manufacturing Executive, Shelia leads her woman-owned businesses with a commitment to excellence and innovation.
Her remarkable achievements in the industry were recognized when she won the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2013 for Manufacturing in Michigan and North West Ohio, presented by Ernst & Young. This accolade highlights her dedication to driving growth and operational success in her companies, making significant contributions to the manufacturing landscape.
Shelia’s leadership continues to inspire others in the industry, showcasing the impact of women in business and the importance of resilience and strategic vision in achieving success.

Rossier Way, Pontypool

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