Sterling Acceptance Marks 35 Years

Then owners of Sterling Acceptance Corp. are celebrating 35 years in the marine loan origination business.

Karen Trostle opened her own marine loan origination firm at the Shady Oaks Marina in West River, Md., in August 1987 after a successful career in banking, Sterling Acceptance said in a statement. Karen and Dave Trostle now run the oldest privately owned marine and RV loan origination company in the United States.

During the company’s 35 years, expansions added sales representatives in Maryland, California, Florida and Rhode Island. The West Annapolis, Md.-based company is now expanding in the Great Lakes region, with two satellite offices, and is expanding its RV financing business.

Karen Trostle served as president of the National Marine Lenders Association from 2008 to 2012 and has served on its board of directors since 2005.

“Karen was the only person I considered when looking for a new opportunity in the marine finance industry … and I was thrilled when she asked me to join the Sterling Acceptance family,” said a longtime employee. “Karen and Dave have provided a competitive and enjoyable work environment.”