Faces of the BIA: Northern Lights Studio

Category: Member-Features
11/05/2026

New business works with MinKo Constructon and Marvin to provide a premium window and door experience

Welcome to our “Faces of the BIA” series! We are excited to introduce you to the organizations and people behind our Building Industry Association. It’s all about fostering connections, celebrating our members and helping you get to know the incredible companies that make up our BIA family!

Northern Lights Studio was built around the simple idea of providing homeowners, builders, architects and designers with a seamless, white-glove experience from product selection through installation and beyond.

Too often, customers must navigate working with separate sales teams, suppliers and installers throughout a construction project, sometimes resulting in confusion and frustration.

Northern Lights Studio General Manager Mike Lien says, “From the initial consultation and product selection to professional installation and post-project support, our team manages every step of the process to ensure exceptional results and a stress-free experience.”

A dedicated Marvin Windows and Doors partner, Northern Lights Studio’s services include product consultation, design assistance, project coordination, professional installation and ongoing support, all through a single team accountable from beginning to end. It specializes in premium residential and light commercial window and door solutions.

Northern Lights Studio shares a roof and its Moorhead address with MinKo Construction, a long-time Building Industry Association member and trusted commercial general contractor serving the region since 1982.

“Operating under the umbrella of MinKo Construction, we've witnessed firsthand the value the Building Industry Association brings to the industry, Mike says.  “We believe in supporting the local construction community, building strong relationships with industry partners and contributing to the continued growth and advancement of our region.”

Innovation continues to drive the industry, particularly in materials and technology. Mike points to Marvin's Ultrex® Proprietary fiberglass products and the growing integration of smart-home features as exciting developments.

 “Adding technology to windows and doors has taken the industry by storm with the ability to control your windows and doors via the Marvin app, voice assistants like Alexa, home automation systems like Creston and installed wall switches,” he says.

Mike Lien

General Manager

Northern Lights Studio

 

Mike’s combination of people skills, business development experience and community connections have prepared him to facilitate a premium experience for customers. A Bemidji State University graduate, he built a diverse career that, most recently, includes seven years with Scheels specializing in sales and partnership development. He has also owned a sporting goods store, owned a fishing guide business and coached high school sports teams.

 

One of Mike's favorite parts of the job is seeing homeowners' visions come to life while building strong relationships with customers and industry partners along the way. Challenges include helping homeowners balance budget, performance and design, which  Northern Lights Studio meets by focusing on simplifying the process through education, communication and a seamless experience.

 

When asked what advice he would give someone entering the industry, Mike says, “Aim to  build relationships and never stop learning. The construction industry is built on trust, and your reputation is one of your most valuable assets.”

 

As Northern Lights Studio establishes itself in the area, its focus remains on delivering the premium experience that inspired the company from the very beginning.

 

Written by Lydia McLaughlin, BIA-RRV Communications Intern