Manufacturing Capabilities & Products | Sterling Industries

At Sterling Industries, manufacturing is more than machining — it’s about delivering complete, production-ready components that meet the highest standards of quality, performance, and reliability. From cast-to-finish assemblies to high-precision machined parts, our vertically integrated approach supports everything from prototyping to full production. Operating from two ISO 9001:2015-certified facilities in Columbus, Indiana, we serve industries where safety, consistency, and tolerances matter — including automotive OEMs, industrial powertrain, fuel systems, and braking assemblies.

🛠️ Core Manufacturing Capabilities

🔧 Precision CNC Manufacturing
Horizontal & Vertical Milling (up to 1000mm cube)
CNC Turning (up to 800mm diameter)
Swiss Turning (up to Ø32mm)
Complex fixturing & multi-operation part runs

🧠 Engineering & Tooling

In-house fixture/tool design
CAD/CAM systems: SolidWorks, Fusion360, MasterCAM
Prototyping support from CAD to chip
DFM consultation & process planning

🧪 Quality Assurance

Dual Dmis CMMs, Oasis Vision, OGP comparator
In-process & final part inspection
ISO 9001:2015 Certified

⚙️ Special Processes & Assembly

Balancing (HVR 150 & 300)
OD, Surface & Blanchard Grinding
Honing – Sunnen equipment
Mechanical Assembly & Functional Testing

🧱 Facility-Based Manufacturing Capabilities

Sterling North – 40,000 sq. ft. Core Products:
Flywheel Housings & Covers
Crankshaft Adapters
Flexplate Assemblies
Belt Tensioner Assemblies
Transmission Brackets
Cast/Billet Structural Brackets
Differential Cases

Processes:

4th-axis Horizontal/Vertical Milling
OD Grinding
Dynamic Balancing
Large-format lathe turning
In-house Assembly

Sterling South – 30,000 sq. ft.

Core Products:
Fuel System Fittings, Shafts, Pins
Brake System Couplings
Pump & Hydraulic Housings
Washers, Spacers, Screws
Bracket Subassemblies
Precision Screws & Fasteners

Processes:

Swiss Turning (L12, L32, M32)
Live-tool CNC Turning
High-speed Milling
Honing, Small-part Inspection
Prototype-to-production part transfers

🧩 Featured Manufacturing Components

🔧 Rotating Assemblies
Machined Pulleys (Balanced)
Belt Tensioner Systems
Crankshaft-to-transmission Adapters

⚙️ Driveline & Powertrain Parts

Differential Cases
Flexplate Assemblies
Engine & Transmission Mount Spacers

🚗 Fuel & Brake Systems

Fuel Fittings, Couplers
Brake Housings, Adapters
Manifolds and Custom Flow Components

🔩 Hardware & Subassemblies

Custom Screws, Washers, Fasteners
Billet/Cast Brackets
Pump Housings & Flanges

📦 Materials & Part Complexity

Material Expertise:
Ductile Iron, Cast Iron
Stainless Steel
Aluminum (6061, 7075)
Carbon and Alloy Steels

Part Types:

Bar-stock machined
Cast or forged blanks
Multi-axis contour machining
Tight-tolerance bore, flatness, and runout specs

Part Sizes:

Small Swiss-turned parts (sub-Ø32mm)
Milled assemblies up to 1000mm
Turned parts up to 800mm diameter

Program Type

Range

Notes

Prototyping
1–10 units
Fixture + first-article ready in days
Short Run
10–500 units
Ideal for test programs or pre-launch
Production
500–3,000+ units
Long-term scheduling & JIT deliveries
Blanket Releases
Custom
Forecast-driven scheduling

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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