2024 Hall of Fame Presenter

GARY STERN, Founder, Executive Chairman, and EVP, Stern Pinball Inc.

Gary Stern is the Founder and Executive Chairman of Stern Pinball, Inc. He began his career in the game business working at age 16 in the stockroom of his father Sam’s pinball company, Williams Electronics. Upon graduating law school he was an associate at a boutique business and corporate bankruptcy firm. In 1973, Gary left the law practice to again join his father Sam at Williams. He was involved in all aspects of the business, including design, sales, and manufacturing. Three years later, Gary and a group of investors formed Stern Electronics, Inc. (SEI). SEI purchased the assets of game manufacturing company Chicago Dynamic Industries and from 1976 to 1984 Gary served as President and CEO as SEI designed, manufactured, and sold commercial pinball and video games.

In 1986, Gary along with Joe founded Data East Pinball, Inc. with investment provided by a Japanese video game company. Gary led the company in its original electronics design, factory build out, and game sales. In 1994, SPI was sold to Sega and the company name was changed to Sega Pinball, Inc. Five years later, Gary and a group of investors purchased the company from Sega and renamed it Stern Pinball, Inc. In 2010 Gary partnered with Dave Peterson to expand and accelerate the growth of the business. Gary served as President and CEO until recently, and he remains the Executive Chairman. Gary is also the founder and a director of the American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA).