Conference Speakers

Deborah Steinke

Executive Vice President, Chief Operations Officer, Nice-Pak

BIOGRAPHY

Deb brings an exceptional combination of leadership and experience to her role leading our North American Supply Chain, Plant Operations, Procurement, and Engineering teams. Based in the field, she splits her time between our facilities in Jonesboro, Arkansas, and Mooresville, Indiana and our headquarters in Orangeburg, New York.

Deb is uniquely proficient in all Nice-Pak product categories and is an expert in nonwoven materials. She started her Nice-Pak career as Strategic Senior Director of Nonwovens Technology and Business Development. Deb joined Nice-Pak from Boston Scientific, where she led technology category teams in many of their medical device business franchises. Before that, Deb was a Plant Manager for Enviva. Deb also spent 15 years with Kimberly-Clark in progressive leadership roles, including Engineering, Operations, R&D, OPEX, and Marketing.

Deb has an MBA from Wake Forest University and a BS in Chemical Engineering from Michigan Technological University. She is an avid outdoor sports enthusiast and resident of Stevens Point, Wisconsin.

---

Navigating the Headwinds: U.S. Manufacturing Threats & Challenges in 2025

Join our panelists as we explore the key forces challenging U.S. manufacturing in 2025—from ongoing supply chain disruptions and rising operational costs to the growing impact of inflation. We’ll also dive into the complex role of trade policies and tariffs, which, despite their intent to support domestic industry, have led to increased costs and strategic pullbacks. In addition, we’ll examine mounting regulatory pressures—ranging from environmental compliance to shifting labor and safety standards—that are reshaping operational strategies across the sector. Join us for a candid look at these pressing challenges and how industry leaders are adapting to stay competitive