From Stellar President Dave Z: Keeping Our American Products in Global Demand

09.23.24

While Stellar is proudly born and based in the American heartland, our company has always traveled the world to inform its innovation and ensure quality. It’s a simple idea, really: Combine the work ethic and knowledge of American workers with the best materials and processes to help our American-made products earn international demand.

As a result of this commitment, companies, organizations and mining operations around the world recognize Stellar’s quality and seek it out. Our export sales have grown considerably, and I’m proud to note that we have received the President’s “E” Award for Exports in recognition of Stellar’s significant contributions to an increase in U.S. sales around the world. As an American company, it’s truly a pleasure to help the country expand in today’s global economy.

On May 14, Tim Davison, our VP of Sales & Marketing, and Ruben Guida, our Director of Export Sales, traveled to Washington, D.C., to receive the award from U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. This year, only 64 U.S. companies were granted the honor. Tim and Ruben were presented with a framed certificate and the traditional white “E” Award pennant at this ceremony.

Tim reported that several government and industry individuals spoke at the ceremony about the importance of growing export sales for our country’s economy. One of those speakers was Jay Timmons, President of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), which represents over 14,000 member companies engaged in manufacturing in the U.S. In his comments, Mr. Timmons called out Stellar as one of two NAM members, along with FedEx, to be recognized with The President’s “E” Award this year. This recognition underscores the vital role of export sales in our country’s overall economy, and everyone at Stellar is proud of what we have achieved and motivated to continue our efforts.

Global Sales Require a Global Commitment

It’s humbling to think that our company headquartered in Garner, Iowa, is serving our country through global sales. Our employee-owners take a lot of pride in producing the number one productivity choice in many markets and countries, and I’d be remiss if I didn’t note the commitment it takes.

First, as mentioned, our excellent team uses the best materials and processes to ensure our products are world-class and are backed by outstanding service and a dedicated distribution network. We wouldn’t have sales in any country if our products couldn’t handle the tough working conditions of our customers, so we will never cut corners on quality and value. Reliability is essential.

Next, we’ve always been a company focused on meeting customer needs, so we’ve always attended industry events to make sure we’re hearing directly from customers regarding the issues they face. On the international scene, this includes our presence at MINExpo International and the IAA Transportation Show, as well as at bauma and CONEXPO. Every country and every industry has unique challenges, and we want to be sure our equipment is designed and built to help those customers maximize productivity and keep the world running.

Finally, I want to give an added shoutout to Ruben Guida for tirelessly leading our export sales efforts. That’s no easy task. As Tim Davison likes to say, “They don’t locate large mining projects next to sunny beaches.” Ruben’s travels to meet with customers range from the deserts of Chile to the outskirts of Mongolia. Fortunately, Ruben is a seasoned traveler who is fluent in numerous languages. Even more, like all of us, Ruben is proud to promote Stellar quality to the world.

Wherever you are, our dedicated team is ready to serve your needs. Join us at MINExpo booth 12721 if you can, or contact us anytime to learn more about Stellar products and solutions.