When a CNC project seems too complex, that’s when OEMs and parts designers know to call on Stecker Machine. And it’s not just because our team can figure out how to get it done, but because we know how to get it done in collaboration with the customer.
In an industry where suppliers will easily quote familiar work, Stecker approaches things differently. We’re a vendor-partner with a reputation for stepping up when others back out — not just by adding capacity or equipment, but by fully embedding ourselves in the problem, the process, and the pursuit of a better solution.
Recently, we sat down with two tenured team members to talk about their approach to solving tough challenges. Hear in their own words about the difference a collaborative CNC partnership can make.
Solving Complex Problems, Not Just Making Parts
Rob Schmitt, Production Planner at Stecker, has seen the shop from every angle — from machinist to leadman to supervisor and now in planning. That experience gives him a unique lens for solving complex production challenges.
“When working with customers, part of what I enjoy is figuring out different ways to meet their requests and making a puzzle fit together in multiple ways. If I can turn a 128-piece puzzle into a 64-piece puzzle by eliminating processes and making improvements, it really makes me excited.”
That kind of initiative led to a key breakthrough when a customer asked Stecker to ramp up volume across four large, complicated parts. “Rather than trying to add capital equipment or operators, we identified that we had a new class of machine that would fit these products that we did not have when the project came through. We were able to move the product to a different machine with open capacity which allowed us to meet the customer's needs and due dates.”
Rob’s approach reflects the strength of Stecker’s internal collaboration and deep operational insight.
Collaboration Starts Inside the Walls
It’s not just about technical know-how. Stecker creates an environment where cross-functional teams are encouraged and expected to come together to solve problems quickly. That collaborative energy is key for Ken Jones of Stecker.
“As a sales account manager, I'm the voice for the customer, so I work with them on current projects and new ones. And then I convey that message internally and make sure we're able to meet their requirements.”
Ken brings both engineering and operations experience to his role, allowing him to lead customer conversations and internal collaboration with equal confidence. A recent hydraulic project tested the limits of Stecker’s capabilities, and it became a prime example of what makes the team different.
“One of the most recent challenges we faced was a new customer with strict cleanliness requirements. They needed hydraulic components where the smallest of particles could create a failure in the system.”
Stecker determined that a new industrial wash system was in order. “It was a new process and a great exercise in collaboration,” said Ken, “not just between all departments internally but with our customer.”
The outcome? A successful launch and a strengthened relationship built on trust, transparency, and persistence.
“The customer really challenged us to do something different,” said Ken. Rather than turning down the work like so many other CNC shops before them, Stecker took on the challenge and invested in the necessary equipment and training to meet the customer’s goals.
It’s Not Just About Parts — It’s About a Partnership
OEMs don’t just want good vendors, they need partners who anticipate problems, bring solutions, and take ownership of the outcome. That’s exactly where Stecker thrives.
“Some of our biggest, most successful projects are those that other CNC companies have failed at. We've taken them on and were successful,” Ken says.
It’s the reason why Stecker continues to earn work from major OEMs, and why we’re seen as a critical partner rather than just another parts supplier.
Are you in a bind? Discover the difference that a collaborative team of CNC experts can make and how Stecker Machine stepped in when others stepped away. Check out these four real-world case studies highlighting how Stecker rescued customers facing serious CNC machining challenges, from military-grade tank parts to complex emission components and heavy-duty transmission housings.
Ready to partner with a team that thrives on complex challenges and delivers confidence? Connect with the team at Stecker Machine today.
