Show-Me State Times

Sterett "Stet" Schanze, president of Gray Manufacturing Company, Inc. in St. Joseph, Missouri, has been elected as the chairman of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry Board of Directors. Gray Manufacturing is known for its design and production of lifting and floor service products in the heavy-duty truck market.

Schanze succeeds Brad Thomas, president of the Silver Dollar City Company, who completed his two-year term. The ceremonial gavel was passed during a board meeting on November 7, 2024.

"It is an honor to be selected as chairman of the Missouri Chamber Board of Directors, and I look forward to serving an organization that plays a vital role in the success of our state, our communities and our businesses," Schanze stated. "As chairman, I hope to embark on an organizational strategic plan for the Missouri Chamber so that we can focus on transformational initiatives to continue to secure Missouri’s position as an economic powerhouse and the best state in the nation to do business."

The Missouri Chamber represents the largest business association in the state and advocates for employers' interests regarding legislative, regulatory, and judicial matters. Its Board of Directors includes representatives from 46 companies statewide.

"I’d like to congratulate Stet Schanze on being elected chairman," said Kara Corches, president and CEO of the Missouri Chamber. "Stet is a visionary and dynamic leader, as well as someone I deeply respect. I am confident that both the future of the Missouri Chamber and our state’s business climate look bright under his leadership. I look forward to working closely with him to protect and advance Missouri employers."

Schanze joined Gray Manufacturing in 2001 and brings over three decades of executive management experience. He directs daily operations while steering strategic goals at Gray Manufacturing.

He recently concluded an 11-year tenure on the Board of Directors at the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI), including three years as chairman. ALI focuses on promoting safe practices related to automotive lift products. Schanze also previously chaired the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. He resides in St. Joseph with his wife Jeanne.