CARY, N.C. — Cornerstone Building Brands, one of the largest manufacturers of exterior building products in North America, announced that President and CEO Rose Lee has been named to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) Board of Directors. Lee will join the NAM Board to bolster the association’s leadership in policy advocacy, legal action, workforce solutions, operational excellence, and news and insights. She will help the industry advance a manufacturing competitiveness agenda that promotes opportunity and prosperity for all Americans.

“I am honored to be a part of the NAM Board and to continue to advocate for policies that will ensure our continued growth and success as manufacturers,” said Lee.

Founded in 1895, the NAM — guided by its Board of Directors — is the largest industrial trade association in the United States, with more than 14,000 members. As one of the nation’s most influential manufacturing advocates, its membership includes some of the most iconic brands and many of the small manufacturers that power the U.S. economy. The NAM and its members are at the forefront of important policy debates, focusing on solutions to help the industry compete in the global economy and to help the country address challenges ranging from supply disruptions and inflation to the workforce crisis and energy security.

“Rose is a recognized leader in our industry, and the NAM will be stronger thanks to her service on our Board of Directors,” said NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons. “Rose will be a trusted adviser who guides our efforts to overcome current economic challenges and to lay the foundation for long-term growth, allowing the industry to innovate and improve the quality of life for everyone.”

Chair of The Manufacturing Institute’s 2023 Women MAKE Awards

Cornerstone Building Brands also announced that Lee will serve as the chair of the Manufacturing Institute’s (MI) 2023 Women MAKE Awards.

The MI is the workforce development and education partner of the NAM. The Women MAKE Awards are part of the larger Women MAKE America initiative, formerly called the STEP Women’s Initiative, whose 35×30 campaign aims to close the gender gap in manufacturing by increasing women’s representation to 35% by 2030.

Each year, 100 Honorees and 30 Emerging Leaders are peer-selected based on their contributions to their companies and communities, and for their work to develop the next generation of talent. To date, the program has honored more than 1,300 women.

“The Women MAKE Awards emphasize the exciting career opportunities available and inspire young women and girls to see themselves in these roles,” said Lee. “Advancing diversity is a critical component of our work at Cornerstone Building Brands. I am excited to step into the role of chair and continue our work together to close the gender gap in the industry and make sure our workforce better reflects the communities we serve.”

Lee brings more than 30 years of manufacturing experience to her role as chair. Prior to Cornerstone Building Brands, Lee was president of DuPont Water & Protection and has held senior leadership positions at Saint-Gobain, Booz Allen Hamilton, and Pratt & Whitney. Lee is the first female Korean American CEO of a Fortune 1000 company.

“We are honored to have Rose as chair, because she is an incredible advocate for women in manufacturing, as well as for increasing diversity and inclusion across the industry,” said MI President Carolyn Lee.