STIHL Inc. Names Stephen Ballenger Vice President of Operations

Words: Lindsy ShrewberrySTIHL Inc. is pleased to welcome Stephen Ballenger as the new vice president of operations in the U.S. Ballenger will be responsible for all production operations at the more than one million square foot corporate headquarters in Virginia Beach, VA where the company produces more than 275 models of handheld outdoor power equipment. His role will include directing manufacturing, engineering, materials and procurement, logistics, buildings, maintenance and quality assurance activities.

Ballenger brings more than 30 years of engineering and manufacturing expertise and leadership experience to STIHL, most recently serving as president of Light Vehicles USA for Metalsa in Elizabethtown, Ky. Previous leadership experience includes positions at Carl Zeiss, Hella and a 15-year career with Bosch North America.

“Stephen has the depth of knowledge and experience to lead our manufacturing operations here in Virginia Beach. His extensive background running large scale, modern manufacturing facilities in the U.S. make him a natural fit for STIHL,” said Bjoern Fischer, president of STIHL Inc. “We welcome him to STIHL Inc. and are confident he will continue to drive our business forward.”

“STIHL Inc. has an exceptional reputation for high quality, cutting edge technology and product performance, but it’s the people behind the products that really drew me to the company,” said Ballenger. “The passion and commitment of STIHL employees is clearly evident. I look forward to being a part of the team and continuing the tradition of excellence.”

Ballenger has a Master of Science in industrial management and a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Clemson University.
About: Featured
 0
Masonry Mortar: The Right Type for the Job
May 2025

When it comes to masonry construction, mortar is much more than “glue” that holds everything together — it’s a critical component of wall performance, longevity, and aesthetics. It can “make it or break it”. Whether you’re laying a foundation CMU wall or

Garen Graves
Featured MAP Partner
Mortar
Read More
MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 20 Recap: Mark Kemp, Superior Masonry
May 2025

Justin Stengel
Read More
How It’s Made: Clay Thin Brick
May 2025

Clay thin brick is a versatile alternative to traditional full brick. It comes in numerous colors and styles and offers something for every design preference. Thanks to the lighter weight, it is designed to reach spaces full brick cannot. From floors to c

Allison Goley
Featured MAP Partner
Read More
Bonding with Masonry 2025: Q1
May 2025

This issue’s questions come from an Architect and a Mason Contractor. What questions do you have? Send them to info@masonrymagazine.com, attention Technical Talk. Q. An Architect asks how to create a narrow masonry pier between openings. Is there a min

David Biggs
Featured
Read More