When Diane Earll first joined USG straight out of college, she never imagined she’d still be there 30 years later. But today, as President of USG’s Ceilings Business, Earll says her journey reflects not just personal growth, but also the company’s commitment to innovation, people, and industry leadership.

Diane Earll’s 30-Year Journey at USG

Diane Earll, now President of USG’s Ceilings Business, has spent 30 years rising through 13 roles across the company, driving innovations like lightweight USG Sheetrock Brand Gypsum Panels and centralized customer service. She credits USG’s culture of opportunity, training, and community commitment—paired with a focus on technology and innovation—for keeping the company and its partners resilient in a changing construction industry.

Speaking to Walls & Ceilings, Earll recalled how a college professor’s connection led her to USG. Drawn by the company’s Chicago roots and reputation for innovation, she quickly found opportunities for advancement. Over the years, she has held 13 different roles across finance, customer service, gypsum, plaster, roofing, and retail—culminating in her current leadership role.

“It’s really a testament to the opportunities USG provides,” she explained, noting that many colleagues also celebrate 30-, 40-, and even 50-year careers at the company.

Among her proudest milestones, Earll highlighted the creation of a centralized global customer service center in 1997, as well as her role in bringing to market innovations like commercial roofing products and the industry-changing lightweight Sheetrock brand wallboard. “Not only did we make it lighter,” she said, “we made it stronger—truly changing the game.”

The conversation also turned to current challenges facing contractors. Earll identified skilled labor shortages as the industry’s biggest hurdle, affecting contractors, manufacturers, and distributors alike. To address this, USG invests heavily in training—offering online resources, field instruction, and digital tools to simplify product selection and installation. Inside USG’s plants, employees now use iPads, QR codes, and even gaming simulations to learn equipment safely.

Beyond the jobsite, Earll emphasized USG’s community commitment, particularly its decades-long partnership with the American Red Cross. As Vice Chair of the Illinois Red Cross Board of Directors, she views the collaboration as a natural extension of USG’s mission to build resilient, safe communities.

Looking ahead, Earll remains optimistic despite market uncertainty. “The construction climate is dynamic, but resilient,” she said. “Technology and innovation will keep manufacturing relevant, sustainable, and efficient. We’re focused on understanding customer pain points and innovating relentlessly to meet those needs.”

Her closing message to contractors and customers was simple but powerful: “We are your partner. Our goal is to make you successful by continuing our legacy of innovation and support.”