Sterling is a graduate of Tarleton State University where he received both a Bachelor of Science degree and a master's degree in Business Administration. He continued his education at Pennsylvania State University where he obtained a Graduate Certification in Public Budgeting and Financial Management.

He has held various municipal roles including Director of Golf and Parks Operations, Deputy City Administrator, and City Administrator.

Sterling and his wife, Cassie, have two children, Blakely and Beckett. Blakely and Beckett both attend Aledo ISD where Cassie is active in PTO activities.

On weekends, when his kids don’t have sporting events or other activities, you will find Sterling "teeing it up" at a local golf course.