Derek DeGeest is an innovator.

As the third generation President of DeGeest Corporation, Derek’s vision pushes the conventional boundaries of what’s possible in manufacturing.

Derek is passionately involved in the development of his growing team, being active in his community, and an advocate for the industry.

As a result, DeGeest Corporation is seen as a technology leader through software development, data analytics, automation, and the use of robotics throughout the manufacturing process.

By building solutions not only for their team, but for customers and the entire industry, DeGeest Corporation has been helping manufacturers solve problems since 1976 through their three service sectors of Steel Works, Finishing and Automation.

Derek’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to seek a better solution for the North American finishing industry. DeGeest has partnered with Italy-based Lesta Self-Learning Painting & Finishing Robots and now serves as President of LestaUSA a product of DeGeest Corporation, the North American distributor, integrator and manufacturer for Lesta SRL.

Derek is active in the community and is a vocal advocate for his industry, partnering with area technical colleges, high schools and middle schools to encourage students to choose rewarding careers in manufacturing and to develop the skills needed to succeed.

As a thought leader in manufacturing, Derek records a podcast called Manufacturing a Stronger Standard that addresses industry questions on automation and robotics as it relates to the DeGeest vision of solving challenges and helping manufacturers achieve more through our people, our technology, and our belief that anything is possible.

In 2019, Derek was named in Washington D.C. as Small Business Administration (SBA) Small Business Person of the Year for South Dakota.

Derek truly believes a rising tide lifts all boats. His accomplishments offer proof that he’s genuinely helping to ensure general manufacturing succeeds in the USA.