Cornerstone Building Brands Executive Wins Women MAKE Award
Cornerstone Building Brands, a leading North American manufacturer of exterior building products, proudly announces that Suzanne Pardue, Vice President of Strategic Sourcing, has been selected as a recipient of the 2025 Women MAKE Award from The Manufacturing Institute (MI). This prestigious award recognizes women in manufacturing who demonstrate outstanding leadership, innovation, and mentorship, serving as role models for the next generation of industry professionals.
The Women MAKE Awards are a key component of the Women MAKE America Initiative, which is dedicated to increasing the representation of women in manufacturing. By recognizing exceptional women across all levels of the industry—from the production floor to executive leadership—the initiative fosters innovation, professional development, networking, and mentorship. The goal is to inspire more women to pursue careers in manufacturing, driving the industry forward through diverse perspectives and inclusive leadership.
Pardue’s recognition highlights her significant contributions to the manufacturing sector, where she has played a crucial role in enhancing strategic sourcing practices, improving supplier performance, and developing high-performing teams. Her leadership style, characterized by collaboration, skill development, and continuous improvement, has had a lasting impact on her colleagues and the broader manufacturing community.
A Trailblazer in Manufacturing Leadership
With over 20 years of experience in supply chain management within the manufacturing sector, Pardue’s career journey is a testament to perseverance and passion for operational excellence. She initially began her professional career as a certified public accountant (CPA) before transitioning into the manufacturing industry. Her keen interest in how products are made, combined with her analytical background in auditing and finance, led her to pursue leadership roles in supply chain and procurement.
Since joining Cornerstone Building Brands in 2022, Pardue has spearheaded initiatives aimed at establishing best-in-class sourcing practices, optimizing category management, and strengthening supplier performance. Her strategic mindset and servant leadership approach have reinforced the company’s commitment to safety, integrity, and inclusion. She encourages her teams to think innovatively, challenge conventional processes, and develop their professional skills in meaningful ways.
“Suzanne is an exceptional leader and role model who drives results that make a real difference for our business, our customers, and our communities,” said Rose Lee, President and CEO of Cornerstone Building Brands. “Her commitment to innovation and continuous improvement helps us create sustainable solutions. I’m proud to have such a strategic, collaborative, and trusted leader on our team.”
A Commitment to Mentorship and Community Engagement
Beyond her corporate achievements, Pardue is deeply committed to mentoring and community involvement. She actively participates in mentorship programs, guiding professionals both within and outside Cornerstone Building Brands to develop critical skills and advance in their careers. She is also a member of the Institute for Supply Chain Management, where she contributes her expertise to industry-wide initiatives.
Additionally, Pardue has dedicated time to supporting her local community through volunteer work, including serving in parent-teacher organizations, youth sports leagues, and school events. Her dedication to empowering others extends beyond the workplace, demonstrating her belief in fostering inclusive environments where individuals can thrive.
“I am empowered by other business leaders who challenge the status quo and innovate with purpose,” said Pardue. “Seeing the success of others has inspired me to believe in my own potential, take risks, and lead with empathy and integrity. I value being able to pay it forward to other leaders.”
Recognizing Excellence in Women in Manufacturing
Pardue will be among 130 women honored at the annual Women MAKE Awards Gala in Washington, D.C., on April 24, 2025. She is the sixth honoree from Cornerstone Building Brands to receive this award since 2020, reflecting the company’s strong commitment to supporting women in manufacturing.
To date, the Women MAKE Awards program has recognized approximately 1,700 women who have made a profound impact on their companies, colleagues, and communities. By spotlighting these role models, the initiative aims to inspire more women to enter and excel in the manufacturing industry.
Cornerstone Building Brands has been an active supporter of the Women MAKE America Initiative and the broader mission of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and The Manufacturing Institute. President and CEO Rose Lee previously served on the NAM Board of Directors and chaired the 2023 Women MAKE Awards, reinforcing the company’s dedication to workforce development and gender diversity in manufacturing.
