Photos by Jessica Whitehead
In Shipshewana, a perfect summer day might include the low rumble of a tractor engine, the scent of freshly cut grass and the hum of a zero-turn mower gliding across a lawn. For Chris Stutzman, an essential part of any season is helping customers keep their farms, properties and businesses running smoothly.
As the owner of Stutzman Power Equipment, he is committed to providing reliable machinery, trusted advice and honest service to farmers, landscapers, homeowners and work crews throughout northern Indiana. Rooted in family values and guided by faith, his mission is to supply the tools and support people need to work efficiently, safely and skillfully.
Originally based near Middlebury, the business quickly outgrew its space. Within six months of purchasing the dealership, Stutzman relocated to 11280 W. U.S. Highway 20 in Shipshewana.
“Everything we had planned for five years out had to happen in six months,” Stutzman said. “It was a lot — moving 30 years of inventory, setting up shop in a new location and shaping it into our vision for an all-in-one equipment store.”
Today, Stutzman Power Equipment offers a full range of outdoor tools — from handheld gear like chainsaws and trimmers to large construction loaders, tractors and excavators. Customers can find everything they need for lawns, farms, nurseries or construction projects under one roof.
The dealership carries respected brands such as Kubota, Scag, Toro, Land Pride, Stihl and Bad Boy Mowers. It also sells both new and used equipment to meet a range of budgets.
“I look at how a company treats its dealers,” Stutzman said. “If they take good care of us, it means we can take better care of our customers.”
The business has also seen strong growth in its equipment rental department over the past two years, expanding inventory to meet rising demand.
“It’s become a big part of what we do,” he said. “We’re figuring out what works best for our customers and adding new options all the time.”
What sets Stutzman Power Equipment apart is its people-first philosophy.
“We don’t see customers as numbers,” Stutzman said. “We work hard to build real connections. We understand what it’s like to run a business, to manage property, to need reliable equipment. We treat every person who walks in the door the way we would want to be treated.”
This approach has helped the business grow to 12 employees, including department managers for parts, sales and service, and five technicians. Stutzman credits communication and shared values for keeping service standards high.
“If there’s an issue among our team, we sit down and work through it,” he said. “That kind of honesty helps us stay aligned — so we can be as helpful to our customers as possible.”
The dealership also offers maintenance, warranty repairs, parts orders and even pickup and delivery service for large equipment.
“If we sell it, we’ll service it,” Stutzman said.
He believes making money is about more than profit — it’s about giving back. The business regularly supports local schools, churches, youth sports and nonprofits. The Stutzman family are active supporters of the Westview and Northridge school systems and organizations like Destiny Rescue, which fights child trafficking globally.
“When the community thrives, we all thrive,” he said.
Stutzman’s parents modeled that mindset. His father, Albert, a lifelong farmer, still helps out at age 68. His mother, Sarah, supported the family businesses and now devotes her energy to grandchildren. Today, those values guide how Chris raises his own daughters — Kennedy, Averie and Harper — along with his wife, Karista.
Chris comes from a family of entrepreneurs. His brother Marlin serves in the U.S. House of Representatives. His brother Matt helps run local ventures such as Stutzman Brother Meats and ShowHauler. His sister, Lynette, and her husband, Tim Carpenter, manage the family farm in the Michiana area.
While the business has grown steadily, Chris is focused on internal strength rather than outward expansion.
“Our goal isn’t to open more locations,” he said. “We want to keep improving right here — making sure every customer is served quickly, fairly and with care.”
He aims to see his current employees thriving both professionally and personally over the next five years.
“I want this place to be a stepping stone to bigger things,” he said. “Whether they stay or move on, I want to help them grow.”
Summer is peak season at Stutzman Power Equipment, and 2025 is no exception. Customers can take advantage of Kubota’s Orange Days Sales Event through the end of June, as well as promotions from Scag, Toro and Bad Boy Mowers.
The business also appears at the Elkhart County Fair, showcasing its offerings at the main entrance — part marketing effort, part community engagement.
“We want people to see who we are and what we stand for,” Stutzman said.
For those looking to upgrade, service or explore their outdoor equipment needs, Stutzman Power Equipment offers a trusted, community-rooted option with a personal touch — and a firm handshake you can believe in.
Visit Stutzman Power Equipment, 11280 W. U.S. Highway 20, Shipshewana, IN 46565 or call 574-825-7281. You can also visit them online at stutzmanpower.com.
Comments 1
Awesome family and business!