The timing of her entry into the industry was unconventional, but it shaped her approach. “It was the bottom of the financial impact—my neighbor was the secretary of treasury for North Carolina and he’s like, ‘Oh my God, she’s starting this at the wrong time,’ but I didn’t know any better—it was literally ground zero,” Grandlienard recalled. “On a positive note, I didn’t have anything to reflect on, so it gave me a solid foundation. If my husband and I were going to make the financial investment, it was going to be revolutionary in the sense of thinking about our environment and what we’re doing with natural stone, and it just kind of kept going from there.”

Winning the 2024 Fabricator of the Year award came after a previous nomination two years prior that didn’t result in a victory, making this year’s honor especially meaningful for Grandlienard. “Being named the 2024 Stone World Fabricator by Stone World is a very prestigious award,” she said. It’s a testament to our commitment to excellence in the stone fabrication and design world, whether it’s North America or worldwide. Two years ago, we were nominated, which we were so honored by, but for us, it elevated us to want to learn more and be better. This second round, being honored with this award, allowed us to push the boundaries of what’s possible with our team -- not just the capability of the artisan craftsmen but also with the new materials coming out and how we can improve.”

The recognition has energized her team at ROCKin’teriors, a small but dynamic operation based in North Carolina. The company started with manual tools and has since embraced innovation, including early investments in environmental systems like an underground water system to ensure employee safety and sustainability. Grandlienard’s story resonates particularly during Women’s Month, as she reflects on the growing presence of women in what was once a male-dominated field.

Her advice to women entering the industry is rooted in encouragement and practicality. “I welcome any individual who wants to get into the stone industry—it’s moved forward so much, and I think it’s exciting,” said Grandlienard. “There’s a place for you in the surfaces industry—before it was known as just a male-dominated environment, but it’s been wonderful to see women doing CNC operations, installing and transitioning from corporate America into our world; I encourage every woman. There’s so many opportunities, and people you can reach out to help you on that journey.”

From its humble beginnings to its current status as an award-winning fabricator, ROCKin’teriors exemplifies resilience and innovation. Grandlienard’s leadership, paired with her commitment to environmental stewardship and team growth, has cemented her legacy in the stone industry. As she prepares for a press trip to Brazil, she remains focused on the future -- both for her company and for the next generation of industry professionals.