Marvin Leader Recognized as 2026 STEP Ahead Award Honoree

3/9/26

Lisa Giese, senior director of finance at Marvin, was named an honoree of the 2026 STEP Ahead Awards. Presented by the Manufacturing Institute, the education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, as a part of the organization’s STEP Ahead Initiative, the national award recognizes the women and allies in manufacturing driving impact and inspiring the next generation in their workplaces and communities.

As a finance leader for Marvin, Lisa has applied her multi-disciplinary background as a finance business partner for Marvin’s window replacement business unit, developing and executing strategic plans, evaluating growth opportunities and analyzing project viability to inform the business' continued expansion in alignment with its long-term aspirations. Her research-driven, technology-focused approach to these initiatives has made a significant impact in Marvin’s success connecting with its customers in new and innovative ways.

"Lisa's unique perspective as a finance professional allows her to strategically partner with executive leadership to chart the course of our window replacement business unit while successfully navigating operational challenges to drive execution," said Joe Sedgwick, CFO at Marvin. "She is an exceptional leader, leveraging her passion, uncompromising integrity and superior financial skillset to achieve business objectives, guide her team and serve the communities in which we operate."

Lisa's decade-long manufacturing career began in production for Marvin, leading finance support for operations in Marvin's Fargo facility before transitioning into her current role guiding strategic direction at an enterprise level. In addition to her role at Marvin, Lisa serves as Treasurer of the Board of the Minnesota State University, Moorhead Alumni Foundation, her alma mater, and is a member of the North Dakota State Board of Accountancy.

"I'm honored to receive this recognition from the Manufacturing Institute," said Giese. "Since transitioning into a role in this industry more than 10 years ago, I’ve seen the exceptional caliber of modern manufacturing careers offered at a values-driven organization like Marvin. I’m inspired by the opportunity to share those possibilities with the next generation of women in STEM."