Will Steiner

A Dream Come True

Will Steiner is no stranger to big moves. He recently packed his bags and relocated to the Triad from Dunkirk, NY. He’s worked at Nestlé Purina for over 15 years and has been afforded countless opportunities for growth within the company, but none have excited him more than the one that led to this move. Purina is opening a new factory in Eden, NC, and Will will be stationed at the helm as Factory Manager.

“Being able to come down here and see the growth and startup of a new factory is a dream come true for me,” Will said.

The new Purina factory in Eden is being constructed at the site of a former brewing operation. When Purina looked at the layout and its offerings from a region standpoint, it fit their model well, and they were eager to move forward. And while the move was initially more about opportunity than it was about the region, Will has quickly grown fond of the Triad and the welcoming community.

“I’m really enjoying the process of getting to know the community and being introduced to other organizations that work to keep people and pets together— which is, of course, one of our core beliefs at Purina,” Will shared. “Community is a huge part of who Purina is. It’s not just a place to work; it’s being a member of this community. Purina has already made a significant donation to the Rockingham County animal shelter and continues to look for ways to give back.”

Purina believes people and pets are better together. Will told us that they are already trying to figure out how to allow dogs in the new factory at least one day a week. His 11 ½-year-old Weimaraner, Ruger, is attached at his hip and has been with him through about six moves and nearly his entire tenor at Purina.

On weekends Will (and Ruger) explore the Triad. They both love to be outside, and Will makes a hobby out of working on cars and even building golf carts. He also describes himself as a bit of a foodie, citing Crafted in downtown Greensboro and That Little Pork Shop in Eden as his two favorite places to eat. Will’s commute to Eden is only about 30 minutes, and he’s enjoying discovering what the region has to offer.

While the launch of the new factory is keeping him busy, Will is still finding time to explore the region as both he and Purina find new homes here in the NC Triad.