
Story

from
the founder
I was originally introduced to stair building during the summer of my sophomore year of high school. I worked in the industry every summer until I graduated, and then I decided to build stairs full time. I founded Step 1 in July of 1995, just one month after I married the love of my life, Lisa. Together with an extremely talented team, we created the business you know today.
In 2001, we moved from a rented machine shed to the custom-built facility we now operate from in Hinckley, IL. We are proud to have our showroom, offices, and state-of-the-art production shop all under one roof, meaning we can keep Step 1 feeling like a close-knit family.
Stair building is the only job I’ve ever had. After all these years I’m still a huge fan of the stair industry and those who call it their craft. It demands a special skill set that few possess. I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. I thoroughly enjoy meeting and interacting with our clients and the opportunities they provide for the Step 1 family. It has been a true blessing in my life.
Lisa and I try to return that blessing at every opportunity. I currently serve on the elder board at Waterman Bible Church, and Lisa serves families and students at Parkview Christian Academy, where our four children attend. Finally, we make sure that a percentage of our profits goes to support organizations we believe are making a real difference in the world.
We hope you will enjoy being a part of the Step 1 family, and we look forward to serving you.

Managers

Doug Regnier
Account Manager
Todd Harkness
Production ManagerInstallers

Casey Hughes

Mike Roberts

John Stehlik

Tim McNally
building more
than stairs



