#United States #J.F. Lehman #Wellman Dynamics #TRM Equity #Creston, IA

TRM Equity Completes Sale of Majority Interest in Wellman Dynamics

On January 14, 2026, TRM Equity II, a private equity firm specializing in lower middle market investments, announced the successful sale of a majority interest in Wellman Dynamics to J.F. Lehman Company. The deal was executed as part of TRM's strategy to partner with companies undergoing transformation and operational improvements. The firm retains a significant minority stake in Wellman, setting the stage for continued collaboration in the future.

About Wellman Dynamics

Based in Creston, Iowa, Wellman Dynamics has established itself as a key player in the aerospace and defense industries, particularly known for its proficiency in large-scale, high-complexity magnesium and aluminum sand castings. The company specializes in creating components that can weigh up to 4,000 pounds and serve critical applications, including rotary and fixed-wing aircraft and aeroengines. With over a hundred years of operation and a workforce of around 400 employees, Wellman has garnered a reputation for delivering reliability and performance, making it a preferred supplier for leading Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

The Acquisition Journey

When TRM Equity initially acquired Wellman in 2022, the company was facing significant operational hurdles, including liquidity challenges and overdue payments. However, the management team at Wellman demonstrated a strong commitment to addressing these issues, and under TRM's guidance, the company underwent a remarkable revival.

Jeff Stone, Managing Director of TRM, remarked on the transformation, noting that Wellman had shifted from being a systemic risk to a trusted partner in the industry. This turnaround was not only beneficial for Wellman and its employees but also impressive in terms of returns for TRM’s investors. The firm's hands-on approach and strategic insights led to an execution of their thesis that exceeded expectations, culminating in positive outcomes for all stakeholders involved.

As this marks the first exit for TRM Equity II, the results of this deal reflect a return that surpasses the total capital committed to the fund, affirming TRM's investment strategy and operational tactics.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the partnership between TRM Equity and J.F. Lehman is seen as a promising avenue for further value creation at Wellman Dynamics. The retained minority stake allows TRM to stay engaged with the innovative developments and operational enhancements at Wellman as it embarks on its next growth phase under JFLCO's stewardship. This strategic alliance is set to bolster Wellman's capabilities and market position, ensuring that the company continues to meet the high expectations of its aerospace and defense clients.

In conclusion, the transaction not only marks a significant milestone for TRM Equity but also lays a strong foundation for Wellman Dynamics as it prepares to navigate future challenges in the evolving aerospace and defense sectors. The strategic vision set forth by TRM's team, along with Wellman's dedicated workforce, promises a continuity of excellence and innovation.