
Cornerstone Building Brands, Inc., a manufacturer of residential and commercial exterior building products, has announced that its chief human resources officer, Katy Theroux, will receive the Women in Manufacturing 2020 STEP (Science, Technology, Engineering and Production) Ahead Award from The Manufacturing Institute.
The annual STEP Ahead Awards program recognizes exceptional women in manufacturing—from the factory floor to the C-Suite—who exemplify leadership within their companies, Cornerstone announced.
Theroux leads the human resources function supporting the 19,500 employees across Cornerstone Building Brands’ more than 100 manufacturing, distribution and office locations. She has built her career, working in technology, service, and most recently manufacturing companies, by focusing on creating a culture where everyone feels valued, and can contribute to their fullest potential.
“My passion is summed up in three words: People, Product and Pride,” Theroux said. “I love coming to work each day because of the pride our people have for the products we make and the impact those products have in communities where people live, work and play.”
“Katy exemplifies what it means to lead with excellence, prioritizing a diverse and inclusive workplace knowing that’s what cultivates a strong workforce,” said James S. Metcalf, chairman and CEO of Cornerstone Building Brands. “We challenge ourselves to break through the status quo to improve our brand, people and communities, and are committed to creating opportunities for success across all levels of the industry.”
Theroux said it’s an honor to receive this award and represent not only the 50% of women in the U.S. labor force, but especially the 29% of women in manufacturing.
“There’s a talent shortage in manufacturing, in large part due to an underrepresentation of women,” Theroux said. “I’m encouraged though, now, more than ever, because of the way we’re redefining the perception of modern manufacturing to attract, retain and support strong women in the industry.”
Theroux will be recognized at the annual Women in Manufacturing STEP Ahead Awards Gala, which will be held virtually on September 24, 2020 and honor 130 women who represent the past, present and future of women manufacturers.
“Through the STEP Ahead Awards, we hope to take another step toward closing the gap in the manufacturing industry talent shortage by highlighting the stories of successful women in manufacturing and giving them a platform to encourage other women to join the industry and be role models for the next generation,” said Carolyn Lee, executive director of The Manufacturing Institute. “The women being honored demonstrate what modern manufacturing careers are all about: making an impact in their communities with meaningful careers that offer significant opportunities for growth.”
To learn more about Theroux and rest of the Cornerstone Building Brands leadership team, which is 25% female (more than double the industry average), visit www.cornerstonebuildingbrands.com.