61Scott Stoneham is the Founder of Lonestar Bucket Trucks, a company based in Fort Worth, TX, that specializes in providing bucket trucks and other specialized vehicles essential for industries such as electric power line services and outdoor utilities. In addition to his work at Lonestar Bucket Trucks, Scott is the President of Lonestar Enterprises Limited, a parent LLC he created to manage his various ventures in the automotive and utility vehicle sectors. Scott’s success can be attributed to his strong marketing skills and business insight, which enabled him to transition from selling luxury automobiles to distributing commercial trucks and heavy machinery. Since launching his utility vehicle dealership, Scott’s business has seen continuous and impressive growth, making him a leading figure in a niche market.
Scott’s journey becomes even more inspiring when considering his significant personal challenges. In 2012, Scott sustained a catastrophic spinal cord injury after falling approximately 14 feet through a collapsed deck. This fall resulted in broken legs, a shoulder injury, and severe damage to his L3 vertebrae. After undergoing a lengthy surgery, Scott spent almost two years in a wheelchair and underwent extensive therapy, working tirelessly to regain the ability to walk. Despite these immense obstacles, Scott’s determination remained unbroken. Today, he continues to live a relatively normal life, managing his spinal cord injury with deep gratitude for the ability to walk. He credits his recovery to the Grace of God, his medical team, and his unwavering drive.
Scott’s personal experiences have greatly shaped his approach to business. His "never give up" mentality has been the cornerstone of his business decisions. No matter what challenges he faces, whether economic downturns or market shifts, he has consistently focused on delivering exceptional customer service and expanding his business operations. His education at Texas Tech University’s Rawls College of Business gave him the strategic foundation to navigate complex business environments and identify new growth opportunities.
While at Texas Tech University, Scott began his career in the automotive financing industry. His ability to close deals and exceed customer expectations quickly earned him promotions to key roles, including Finance Manager, Finance Director, and Director of Sales. After graduating, Scott joined Van Tuyl Automotive, where he contributed significantly to the company’s success. This privately held dealership was later acquired by Berkshire Hathaway Automotive, where Scott’s skills in sales and customer relations were vital to the company’s continued growth.
In 2005, Scott recognized an opportunity to pivot away from the luxury vehicle market, which was highly sensitive to economic fluctuations. He decided to launch an online dealership specializing in high-end vehicles that could meet the needs of business owners and municipalities. His move into this niche market was successful, but the 2008 economic collapse posed a significant challenge to the automotive industry, particularly for high-end vehicle sales.
During the financial crisis, Scott’s dealership faced substantial difficulties, as many of his customers could not secure financing for their vehicle purchases. With millions of dollars invested in inventory, his business eventually became financially insolvent. Rather than giving up, Scott adapted by returning to work for larger dealer groups, using this time to rebuild his career and gain valuable experience.
In 2016, Scott recognized a growing demand for utility vehicles, especially bucket trucks, as municipalities and industries began focusing on upgrading their infrastructure. Drawing on his experience in the automotive sector, he launched Lonestar Bucket Trucks, which quickly gained traction in the market. Scott’s deep understanding of the heavy equipment market and his ability to meet customer needs allowed him to build a strong and loyal customer base. His company’s success is largely attributed to his strategic foresight and commitment to delivering excellent customer service.
Scott’s success in the utility vehicle sector is also rooted in his ability to build strong industry partnerships and provide high-quality products. By understanding the specific needs of his clients and offering tailored solutions, Scott has established Lonestar Bucket Trucks as a trusted name in the industry. His business continues to thrive thanks to his exceptional leadership and strategic vision.
Scott remains committed to giving back to the community outside of his professional life. He actively participates in fundraising events and supports various charitable causes. His lifelong passion for automobiles, especially classic and muscle cars, remains a significant part of his life. Growing up in Texas, Scott developed a love for cars and engines that has stayed with him personally and professionally throughout his life.
Scott Stoneham’s career and personal journey exemplify the power of resilience, adaptability, and vision. Despite facing numerous personal and professional challenges, he has built a successful business and continues contributing to his community. His story is a powerful reminder that perseverance, hard work, and the ability to adapt to change can lead to success, even in the face of adversity. Today, Scott continues to grow his businesses, nurture his passion for automobiles, and remain dedicated to positively impacting his professional and personal life. His ongoing success is a testament to his determination and unwavering commitment to excellence.