Cooper Sterling
Vice President, Strategy

Motto: “If you do your job, I don’t have to manage anyone.”

In the early stages of Sterling’s development, when the company was primarily operated by Cooper Sterling and his brothers, Cooper assumed responsibility for overseeing operations beyond the office premises. This encompassed tasks such as managing shipping, receiving, production, purchasing, and supervising yard personnel. Over time, his role has evolved, and he now primarily focuses on purchasing, particularly in procuring wood for Sterling’s panel production facility. Additionally, Cooper collaborates extensively with the sales team, contributing to strategic planning, pricing strategies, and leveraging market insights to optimize sales efforts. In his current capacity as Vice President of Sales & Strategy, he plays a pivotal role in guiding sales initiatives and ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.

Cooper’s background includes one year at ISU and two years at Northern Michigan University in Marquette, where he pursued practical training in construction management. Equipped with a solid educational foundation, he aspired to transition directly into the workforce, focusing on acquiring the skills necessary to assume the role of a foreman on construction sites. Following his high school graduation in 1994, Cooper embarked on his academic journey and gained valuable experience in the construction industry. Since joining Sterling, he has remained committed to this field, continually honing his expertise and contributing to the company’s success.

Cooper’s leadership style is defined by a strong emphasis on action and hands-on involvement. While Sterling prioritizes hiring individuals with the requisite skills and expertise through thorough discussions and interviews, Cooper firmly believes in empowering them to take ownership of their roles. He trusts in their abilities to excel independently, providing guidance and support as needed. Central to Sterling’s philosophy is the belief in surrounding themselves with individuals who possess superior skills and capabilities. By leveraging the strengths of team members, Sterling drives the company forward in the right direction and achieves success. The company fosters an environment where experimentation and learning from failure are encouraged, recognizing that such experiences contribute to personal and organizational growth.

Cooper takes great pride in the journey of Sterling, which began when he and his brothers joined forces with their father. It was undoubtedly a challenging endeavor, presenting numerous learning opportunities along the way. Building solid relationships with suppliers was imperative, necessitating effective communication across diverse spectrums of the industry. Navigating interactions with individuals ranging from forest workers in Missouri to corporate executives required adaptability and finesse in communication. Cooper embraced the need to tailor his approach to suit the unique dynamics of each encounter, a skill that sets him apart. His ability to connect with individuals from various backgrounds reflects his commitment to genuine and meaningful engagement.

Throughout this journey, the growth of Sterling has been a source of immense satisfaction for Cooper. Despite their achievements, he remains grounded and values the diverse perspectives and experiences that have shaped the company’s trajectory.