Karissa Dunham, Host | Business Development & Growth Leader on Influential Women
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Influential Woman · Construction | Window Film | Specialty Film | Business Development | Marketing & Media

Karissa Dunham

Host | Business Development & Growth Leader, Sun Control of Minnesota

St. Paul, MN 55113

2Articles published
4Awards received

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Winona State University – Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services Cert 3M Marketer of the Year Cert Finance & Commerce Unsung Hero Award Cert National Dealer of the Year (Sun Control of Minnesota) Member Ladies Executive Golf Society (LEGS) - Vice President of Minnesota Chapter

Her Story

About Karissa

Karissa Dunham is a business development and marketing leader based in Minnesota, working across the construction and specialty film industry as part of Sun Control of Minnesota. With a strong foundation in sales, management, and customer engagement, she has built a career focused on driving growth across multi-state operations while developing strategic partnerships and expanding brand presence. Her work spans business development, marketing initiatives, event leadership, and community-based networking programs that connect industry professionals and local organizations.

She is also the host of Shining Light on Minnesota Podcast, where she highlights entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders throughout the region. Through storytelling, she amplifies voices that inspire collaboration and community impact, extending her work beyond traditional business development into media and content creation. In addition, she serves as Vice President of the Minneapolis chapter of the Ladies Executive Golf Society (LEGS), where she supports women in business through networking, mentorship, and golf-centered community engagement.

Karissa’s career reflects a commitment to resilience, relationship-building, and purpose-driven leadership. Recognized as Finance & Commerce’s Unsung Hero and 3M Marketer of the Year, she continues to expand Sun Control’s reach while fostering mentorship and opportunity within her industry. She is known for her ability to connect people, create meaningful partnerships, and bring positivity and visibility to the organizations and communities she serves.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Karissa

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to the way I was raised and the life challenges I’ve experienced. Obstacles such as family sickness, divorce, and personal losses have shaped my resilience and independence. These experiences helped me better understand myself, what I value, and how I want to show up in both my personal and professional life.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

Some of the best advice I’ve received came from leaders and mentors who encouraged me to think outside the box, stay visible, and continue pushing forward even when things feel uncertain. I’ve also been influenced by the importance of staying adaptable and being willing to grow through every stage of your career rather than waiting until you feel completely ready.

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

I would tell young women to be team players, stay open-minded, and support others—even in competitive environments. There is enough opportunity for everyone, and collaboration will always take you further than competition alone. It’s also important to build confidence, know your value, and not be afraid to put yourself out there.

04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

One of the biggest challenges is standing out in a crowded and fast-moving industry. It takes confidence, consistency, and willingness to be visible. At the same time, there are incredible opportunities across residential and commercial markets, as well as in marketing, construction, and specialty film. There is also a growing opportunity to mentor others and create new pathways for people entering the industry.

05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

The values most important to me are professionalism, honesty, integrity, punctuality, and positivity. I believe in showing up on time, doing what you say you will do, and maintaining a positive mindset even during challenges. I also value creating meaningful relationships and helping others succeed wherever possible.

Her Content Hub

Articles by Karissa

A compelling story of vision, craftsmanship, and leadership at Sun Control of Minnesota, where building a legacy matters more than selling products, told through the journey of business development, community impact, and the values that drive excellence every single day.

Discover how Sun Control of Minnesota builds lasting legacies through visionary leadership, exceptional craftsmanship, and a team dedicated to excellence across window film, safety solutions, and architectural products nationwide.

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