Friday, August 22, 2025
Stiles Machinery is celebrating six decades of leadership and innovation. Since its inception in 1965, the company has grown from a regional supplier to a nationwide solutions and service partner, catering to manufacturers of all sizes and industries.
Founded in 1965, Stiles Machinery has continuously adapted to the evolving needs of the woodworking industry, establishing itself as a leader in providing the latest solutions. What began as a small operation has grown into a vital partner for woodworking manufacturers, with a broad range of offerings that span individual machines to fully integrated, end-to-end manufacturing systems.
Barry Kellar, President of Stiles Machinery, reflected on the company’s growth, stating, “This milestone is a testament to our people and the partners who have grown with us. Sixty years in this industry doesn’t happen by accident. Our customers, manufacturers, dealers, and employees have helped us adapt, innovate, and deliver decade after decade.”
Unbreakable partnership with HOMAG Group
In 2014, Stiles Machinery became a part of the HOMAG Group, with HOMAG Group AG increasing its shareholding to 100 percent. This partnership brought together two industry leaders with a shared commitment to continuous improvement. Together, they have expanded their product offerings to include a full range of solutions for woodworking manufacturers, from individual machines to complete automated systems. In addition to partnering with global brands such as Heesemann, Salvador, and Makor, Stiles has also developed its own range of brands, including Kentwood and Ironwood. This expansion has allowed Stiles to cater to a wider array of manufacturing needs while maintaining its reputation for innovation and quality.
From the very beginning, Stiles Machinery has placed a strong emphasis on customer service. In 1985, under the ownership of Peter Kleinschmidt and David Rothwell, Stiles made a strategic investment in parts and service capabilities, setting the stage for its ongoing success in providing unmatched customer support. Today, Stiles stocks over 425,000 parts at its Grand Rapids, Michigan headquarters, and fulfills the majority of orders within 15 minutes of intake.
Stiles’ commitment to service excellence extends beyond parts supply. With over 200 service and support technicians strategically positioned across the United States, Stiles provides on-site assistance, remote diagnostics, and lifecycle support for machinery. This includes rebuilds, upgrades, and complementary equipment solutions, ensuring that manufacturers receive the best possible service throughout the life of their equipment.
Stiles University is leading the way in industry training
As the woodworking industry continues to advance, so too has Stiles’ commitment to training the next generation of professionals. In 1990, the company founded Stiles Education, which became the woodworking industry’s first IACET-accredited training center. Today, known as Stiles University, the program offers more than 20 courses and an online learning portal. Since its inception, Stiles University has educated over 40,000 students, empowering the workforce with the skills needed to thrive in modern manufacturing environments.
The educational initiative underscores Stiles’ belief that innovation is not only about machinery but also about empowering individuals to use technology to its full potential. By providing comprehensive training, Stiles ensures that its customers can optimize their operations, run smarter, safer, and more efficiently.
Stiles Machinery is committed to continuing its legacy of innovation and support for manufacturers across North America. Kellar emphasized, “As we recognize six decades, our commitment remains the same: help manufacturers run smarter, safer, and more efficiently. That means continuing to invest in the right people, training, and support that Stiles is known for.” The company’s focus on providing integrated solutions, exceptional customer service, and a commitment to employee and customer development positions it well for the future. As the industry evolves, Stiles is prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow, continuing to drive innovation and improve manufacturing processes across North America.
Stiles Machinery’s six-decade journey has been marked by continuous innovation, a steadfast commitment to customer service, and a focus on empowering the woodworking industry with advanced technologies. As the company celebrates its 60th anniversary, it remains dedicated to shaping the future of the woodworking machinery market, ensuring that manufacturers continue to thrive in an increasingly competitive and technological landscape.
For more updates, visit the European woodworking industry website: woodandpanel.com
Tags: homag group, Manufacturing solutions, north american woodworking, stiles machinery, woodworking machinery
