Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Custom Stainless Steel Fabrication Solutions
West Star Industries has been a leader in stainless steel food-service equipment fabrication since 1974. Our family-owned business combines 50 years of expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver custom solutions for restaurants and commercial clients nationwide. As a 100% women-owned company certified by WBENC, we prioritize gleaming precision, unmatched service, and innovative fabrication techniques. Our 88,000-square-foot solar-powered facility in Stockton, CA, ensures fast lead times and scalable production capacity. Our team of National Account Specialists and experienced project managers provides end-to-end support, from responsive CAD/CAM design to warehouse staging and delivery coordination.We maintain the highest industry certification standards while fostering long-term client partnerships through tailored solutions. Our precision lasers and computerized press brakes guarantee flawless fabrication, eliminating installation issues. We collaborate with third-party vendors to integrate equipment seamlessly into custom designs. With a legacy of excellence dating back to our founding by Rich Hackett in 1973, we continue to set benchmarks for quality and customer satisfaction. Our commitment to innovation is matched only by our dedication to treating every client like family.
Services
Custom Fabrication
Refrigeration Units
Stainless Sinks
Worktables
Exhaust Hoods
Dish Tables
Shelving
Cabinets
CAD/CAM Design
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- 50 years of specialized stainless steel fabrication experience
- WBENC-certified 100% women-owned business
- Industry's shortest lead times with 48-hour response
- Precision fabrication using advanced laser technology
- Dedicated project managers with 15+ years average tenure
Associations and certifications
- WBENC
Services
Custom Fabrication
West Star Industries creates custom stainless steel equipment tailored to specific operational needs. Our fabrication process combines advanced technology with expert craftsmanship to deliver durable, code-compliant solutions. We handle complex projects from initial design to final installation.
Precision Lasers
Our precision laser technology ensures clean, de-burred cuts for perfect component alignment. This eliminates post-welding finishing while maintaining dimensional accuracy. Automated systems guarantee consistent quality across large-scale projects.
CAD/CAM Design
We use advanced CAD/CAM software to create electronic prototypes for client review. This streamlines design approval and reduces lead times by programming lasers directly from digital models. Clients can test virtual designs before fabrication begins.
Project Management
Our experienced project managers coordinate all aspects from quoting to delivery. They attend job site meetings, manage timelines, and ensure complete installations. With 15+ years average tenure, they provide expert guidance through complex multi-location projects.
Equipment Staging
We stage third-party equipment purchases alongside stainless steel components for synchronized delivery. Our facility accommodates equipment integration during fabrication, ensuring seamless installation of combined systems like dishwashing stations with built-in machinery.
People
Michelle Focke
President
President since 2013 with 24 years of experience, Michelle leads strategic direction and client relations. She focuses on long-term partnerships and oversees daily operations with a hands-on approach. Holds business management degree from Fresno State.
Nancy Mittelstadt
Senior Estimator and Corporate Secretary
Senior estimator since 2013 specializing in value engineering and project quoting. She ensures optimal design solutions while maintaining cost efficiency. Prioritizes accurate project estimates and collaborates with sales teams for client satisfaction.
Rich Hackett
Founder (Retired)
Founded Economy Sheet Metal in 1968 which became West Star Industries in 1973. Established family-oriented culture and customer service standards. Retired after 40+ years in the industry, leaving legacy of excellence in fabrication.
Questions
What stainless steel products do you fabricate?
We create custom refrigeration units, sinks, worktables, exhaust hoods, dish tables, shelving, cabinets, and specialized food-service equipment.
How quickly can you complete projects?
We offer the industry's shortest lead times with 48-hour response and use automated equipment for accelerated production schedules.
Are you certified as a women-owned business?
Yes, we're WBENC-certified as 100% women-owned, controlled, and operated since 2013.
Do you handle nationwide projects?
We serve commercial clients nationwide from our Stockton, CA manufacturing facility with coordinated shipping solutions.
How do you ensure fabrication precision?
Our advanced lasers cut de-burred edges and computerized press brakes form steel to exact tolerances without warping.
Can you integrate third-party equipment?
Yes, we seamlessly incorporate outside equipment like dishwashers and ovens into custom stainless steel designs.