Full-Service Precision Machining, Assembly & Engineering At Sterling Industries, we provide end-to-end manufacturing solutions built on decades of machining expertise, cutting-edge equipment, and a deep commitment to quality.
Whether you need a single prototype or thousands of high-precision parts, we have the capabilities, engineering support, and flexibility to deliver. Operating from two ISO 9001:2015-certified facilities in Columbus, Indiana, we support low- to medium-volume production for customers in the automotive, industrial, fuel, and aftermarket sectors.
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🔧 Machining Services

CNC Machining
We offer a full range of precision CNC machining services to support complex geometries, tight tolerances, and emanding materials.  

Vertical & Horizontal Milling

Up to 1000 mm working cube
±0.0005" tolerance
60-tool magazine with pallet changers
Full 4th-axis and 3+1 machining on all machines
6 machines each (Vertical & Horizontal)

Horizontal Lathes

24 total machines
Max turning diameter: 800 mm
6 lathes with live tooling
Ideal for drivetrain and powertrain components

Swiss Turning (Citizen Cincom)

5 Swiss machines (L12, L32, M32)
Max diameter: 32 mm
Twin spindle machines with rotary tooling
Designed for high-speed, high-precision small components
Ideal for fuel system parts, valve components, threaded shafts

Equipment List


With an extensive floor of equipment Sterling Industries will always have the right tool for the job. Our list includes equipment for: Turning, Milling, Honing, Grinding, Balancing and precision Measurement Equipment.

View equipment List

🧠 Engineering Services

Sterling’s in-house engineering team provides critical support throughout the product lifecycle — from design optimization to fixture development and prototype machining.
Fixture & Tooling Design
CAD/CAM Support
SolidWorks CAD
Esprit CAM
MasterCAM
Fusion 360
Design for Manufacturability (DFM) consultation
Prototype validation and machining

🧪 Quality Control & Testing

We are ISO 9001:2015 certified and operate with a rigorous quality system designed to meet customer expectations every time. Inspection Equipment:

  1. Dual Dmis Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs)
  2. Oasis Vision Inspection System
  3. OGP QL-30 Comparator (760mm)
  4. Reflex 343 Manual CMM

“To provide products and services that consistently meet or exceed the standards set by our customers — delivered on time and at competitive cost.”

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⚙️ Special Processes

Sterling also offers advanced value-added services to support assembly, balancing, and finishing operations.
In-House Specialties:

Dynamic Balancing
HVR 150 & HVR 300
Ideal for pulleys, flywheels, and rotating assemblies
Honing
Sunnen machines
Precision bore finishing for hydraulic and fuel parts
OD & Surface Grinding
Cylindrical and flat surface finishing
Blanchard Grinding
Large surface area part prep and finishing
Mechanical Assembly & Test
Component assembly with fit and function testing
Custom solutions for verified final part integration

✅ Why Choose Sterling?

“We built a precision port seal the same day it was requested — giving our customer a complete test stand solution overnight.”

🧰 Tool Room & Rapid Prototyping

We maintain a fully equipped manual tool room for:

Quick-turn fixturing
Small-batch tooling
Prototype machining

⚡ Materials We Work With

We support both cast and billet manufacturing workflows.

Cast Iron
Ductile Iron
Aluminum Alloys
Stainless Steel
Carbon & Alloy Steel

🧱 Volumes & Lead Times

Prototype Quantities: 1–10 units
Low Volume: 10–500 units
Production Volume: 500–3,000 units
Lead times: Flexible, with expedited options available for key customers

📍 Facilities at a Glance

Sterling North Plant

40,000 sq. ft.
Balanced Pulleys, Adapters, Housings, Large Machined Parts

Sterling South Plant

30,000 sq. ft.
Fuel System Parts, Pins, Shafts, Fittings, Brake Components

Ready to dive in?

Or call us directly at (812) 376-8286 to speak with our production team about your machining needs.
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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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