Deep in the heart of Colorado’s industrial landscape, precision engineering meets steadfast dedication at Armite Lubricants. Since acquiring the company in the early 2000s, Michael Sandstrum, president of Armite Lubricants, has elevated this 97-year-old enterprise into a beacon of innovation in military-spec lubricants and corrosion protection.
Sandstrum’s journey embodies entrepreneurial spirit and technical mastery. His connection to Armite Lubricants began with hands-on experience using their flagship product, 12|34® Formula, in DIY projects. Today, this First-Year Titan 100 Honoree guides the company through global expansion, securing strategic partnerships across Europe, Saudi Arabia, Southeast Asia and Australia.
Under Sandstrum’s stewardship, Armite Lubricants achieved AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015 certification, demonstrating exceptional commitment to quality management systems. This milestone opened doors to prestigious contracts in aerospace, defense and advanced manufacturing sectors. His focus on cybersecurity compliance through NIST SP 800-171 standards further strengthens Armite Lubricants’ position as a trusted defense contractor.
Innovation drives Sandstrum’s leadership approach. By implementing new ERP systems and enhancing inventory management protocols, he streamlined operations while reducing lead times. His strategic vision extends beyond domestic markets, establishing Armite Lubricants as a global leader in specialized lubrication solutions for mission-critical applications.
Community engagement remains central to Sandstrum’s philosophy. Serving on boards for Manufacturer’s Edge, Colorado Advanced Manufacturing Association and Metro State University’s Advanced Manufacturing Science Institute, he actively shapes the future of American manufacturing. His decade-long commitment to A Precious Child demonstrates dedication to youth development and community welfare.
The company’s evolution reflects Sandstrum’s commitment to excellence. From maintaining rigorous military specifications to developing eco-friendly formulations, he ensures Armite Lubricants stays ahead of industry demands. His leadership transforms technical challenges into opportunities for innovation, setting new benchmarks in industrial lubrication.
Sandstrum’s impact extends across multiple industries, from aerospace and defense to maritime and energy sectors. His strategic approach to product development ensures Armite Lubricants’ solutions meet the most demanding operational requirements while maintaining environmental responsibility. Through white-label capabilities and emergency AOG shipments, he has positioned the company as an indispensable partner in global supply chains.
The depth of Sandstrum’s influence on American manufacturing extends beyond Armite Lubricants’ walls. His participation in national industry associations and advocacy for small businesses demonstrates commitment to strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities. By fostering relationships with educational institutions and industry partners, he creates pathways for innovation and workforce development.
Through strategic partnerships and relentless focus on quality, Sandstrum positions Armite Lubricants for continued growth. His vision encompasses expanding product lines, strengthening global distribution networks and pioneering advanced formulations that meet tomorrow’s challenges. This dedication to innovation, combined with his commitment to maintaining Armite Lubricants’ nearly century-old legacy of excellence, ensures the company’s position as an industry leader for generations to come.
