Employees (Leadership Team)

Ron Stanley is the Owner, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Empire Bolt & Screw. He began his career after earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Washington State University, serving as a Manufacturing Engineer with IBM in San Jose and Tucson.
Ron returned to Empire Bolt & Screw in 1985. Drawing on his engineering background and commitment to quality, he established Empire’s initial Quality Management System and developed its documented Quality Inspection Lab, establishing a strong foundation for the company’s ongoing focus on quality and continuous improvement.
In addition to his leadership at Empire, Ron has been actively involved in professional and community organizations. He is a member of Rotary International and has served on the Board of Directors of the Boy Scouts of America and as a Trustee of the Washington State University Foundation. He also served as President of the Western Association of Fastener Distributors, now known as the Pacific-West Fastener Association.
Ron’s combination of engineering expertise, industry experience, and long-term commitment to quality has helped shape Empire Bolt & Screw and continues to guide the company’s growth and commitment to its customers.

Jennifer Sturm was promoted to Chief Operations Officer of Empire Bolt & Screw in December 2020, following more than two decades of progressive leadership within the organization. She began her career with Empire in 1997 in Business Development and transitioned to Operations Manager in 2003. In 2004, she was named General Manager, assuming increasing responsibility for the company’s operations, strategic initiatives, and organizational growth.
Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance from Whitworth University and earned a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga University in 2022. Her diverse professional background, which includes experience as a wildland firefighter and operatic performer, has contributed to her adaptable leadership style and ability to approach business challenges from multiple perspectives.
In 2024, Jennifer was recognized as WIFI’s (Women in the Fastener Industry) Woman in Business, honoring her commitment to supporting and empowering women within Empire and throughout the fastener industry.
Jennifer is passionate about expanding access to high-quality education and professional development within the fastener distribution industry. She currently serves on the Boards of Directors for the Fastener Training Institute and the National Fastener Distributors Association and has previously served as a Director for the Pacific-West Fastener Association.
Outside of her professional and industry commitments, Jennifer enjoys staying active and can often be found on the pickleball court.

Scott Sturm began his career with Empire Bolt & Screw in 1992 in the Material Handling Department. Throughout his tenure, he has held positions across multiple areas of the organization, including Purchasing, Accounting, Quality Assurance, and Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) Services. This broad cross-functional experience has provided Scott with a comprehensive understanding of Empire’s products, processes, customers, and overall operations.
As Director of Sales, Scott brings extensive product knowledge and long-standing customer relationships to his role. He also serves as a key trainer and mentor for Empire’s sales and purchasing teams and provides valuable guidance and expertise in the area of Quality Assurance.
Scott earned his Certified Fastener Specialist™ (CFS) designation through the Fastener Training Institute™ in 2015. He has also completed specialized industry education in Metric Fasteners (2013) and the Practice & Science of Industrial Distribution through Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) in 2008.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, Scott has been an active member of the Spokane community and served as an AAU basketball coach for 17 years. His extensive experience, industry knowledge, and commitment to both Empire and its customers make him a valued member of Empire’s leadership team.

Caleb Rier joined Empire Bolt & Screw in August 2018 following his studies at the University of Washington. He began his career with Empire as a Quality Technician and quickly demonstrated strong technical expertise and leadership capabilities, earning promotion to Lead Technician of the Quality Lab in November 2019.

In August 2020, Caleb was promoted to Warehouse Manager, taking on increased responsibility for warehouse operations, inventory management, and operational efficiency. In 2021, he earned his Certified Fastener Specialist (CFS) designation, further strengthening his expertise within the fastener industry.

Caleb was promoted to Operations Manager in 2025. In this role, he provides leadership across Empire’s operational functions, with a focus on efficiency, quality, service, and continuous improvement. His extensive experience across quality, warehouse management, and operations provides him with a comprehensive understanding of Empire’s business and the needs of its customers.

In 2026, Caleb was elected to the Board of Directors of the Pacific-West Fastener Association, reflecting his continued commitment to leadership and professional development within the fastener industry.

Brian serves as Sales Supervisor at Empire Bolt & Screw, bringing more than a decade of experience in industrial sales, account management, and customer development.
 
Throughout his career, Brian has focused on building strong customer relationships, solving complex sourcing and application challenges, and helping customers find practical solutions that support their long-term goals. His experience also includes product knowledge, process improvement, sales analysis, and supporting teams across multiple areas of the business.
 
A Certified Fastener Specialist™ since 2019, Brian enjoys combining technical knowledge with a problem-solving approach to help customers navigate everything from everyday requirements to more complex projects.
 
Outside of work, Brian enjoys spending time with his family, woodworking, gaming, and writing.

Chris began his career with Empire in January 2023 bringing with him a strong background in leadership, operations, and customer service. He has 15 years of experience in consumables retail management, along with 8 years of experience in warehouse operations and dispatch.
Today, Chris serves as the Branch Manager of Empire’s Summerville location. His key strengths include working with people, building strong relationships, and creating a positive and productive team environment.
Outside of work, Chris enjoys traveling, writing, and spending quality time with his family.