Steven is a thought leader in innovation management and digital transformation. Currently, he is the Principal at Industry 4ward LLC, an advisory firm that works with manufacturers to help them identify, prioritize, and embark on the next steps in their digital transformation and sustainability journeys. He leverages the Smart Industry Readiness Index (SIRI) and Consumer Sustainability Industry Readiness Index (CoSIRI) assessment models which are data-driven models that incorporates I4.0 or Sustainability maturity, industry competitiveness, and business strategy alignment to identify areas of focus for value growth.

Steven has been involved in the National Association of Manufacturer thought leadership groups – Innovation Research Interchange (IRI) and the Manufacturing Leadership Council (MLC) – for many years, initially as a member and now as a Senior Director for Event Content.

Steven holds a BS in Chemistry from the University of Rochester and a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Washington. Upon completing his graduate studies, he went to work at IBM’s Microelectronics Division where he remained for over 12 years. At IBM he held a variety of roles across the technical and managerial spectrum. Upon leaving IBM, Steven joined Entegris where he held 2 key roles at – innovation management thought leader and Director of Digital Transformation.

Steven is a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and Certified SIRI & CoSIRI Assessor with extensive experience at leading technical, business process, and organizational transformation projects.