Marki Huston, CEO of Viega North America — a global leader in industrial, commercial and residential piping systems — was named a Regional Economic Development Champion for Viega’s work in bolstering economic development in Northeast Ohio. The award was presented by Team NEO, along with JobsOhio, at the NEO Rising 2026 event on May 14, 2026.

The event celebrated achievements in advancing business growth and opportunities across a 14-county region in Northeast Ohio. Huston was specifically recognized for her leadership in advancing Viega’s $178 million, 244,000-square-foot manufacturing and training facility in Mantua, OH – supporting nearly 70 jobs and advancing the future of the industry.

“For Viega, investing in the U.S. — and specifically in Northeast Ohio — was about expanding our manufacturing and distribution capabilities to better support customers and partners, while creating new opportunities for regional collaboration,” Huston said.  “This region has a strong manufacturing heritage, exceptional people and partners who believe in building for the future. Viega is grateful to be a part of that history, and we look forward to continuing to invest, grow and succeed together.”

Under Huston’s leadership, Viega prioritized sustainable manufacturing in the development of the carbon-neutral facility engineered from the ground up that has already achieved LEED Gold certification.

Beyond the award recognition, Huston also participated in a fireside chat at the event, focused on Foreign Direct Investment and the growing importance of international business in driving regional economic success. The discussion examined how global market access, supply chain integration and innovation are shaping the future of economic growth — and why Northeast Ohio is uniquely positioned to compete.