Spotlight: Adina Starke
Adina Starke: Navigating the Flexography Maze with Passion and Resilience
In the dynamic world of flexography, where innovation and adaptability are key, Adina Starke stands out as a trailblazer. With a carefully planned career trajectory and a passion for the printing industry, Adina’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the ability to navigate challenges in a male-dominated field.
A Planned Journey into Flexography
Adina’s journey into flexography wasn’t accidental; it was a well-thought-out decision. Initially majoring in English, she discovered her passion for the field in Graphic Communications 101 at Clemson University. Adina switched her major and embarked on a career path that would see her thrive in various aspects of the printing industry.
A Career Path Marked by Expertise and Growth
Adina’s career path in flexography is nothing short of impressive. After completing internships at industry giants like MacDermid Graphic Solutions and Cryovac Sealed Air, she started her professional journey at Sun Chemical as a Lab Technician. Here, she honed her skills in troubleshooting, product development, and earned her Six Sigma Green Belt.
In 2012, Adina transitioned to Lohmann Specialty Coatings as an Application/Product Development Engineer, contributing significantly to the launch of new products. Her foray into sales began in 2018 at JV Imaging Solutions, where she served as a Technical Territory Manager. By 2022, Adina had joined Baldwin Technology as a Sales Leader, achieving an astounding 330% growth in equipment orders in her first year and earning recognition for the #1 percentage growth in her territory.
Influence and Overcoming Challenges
In any successful career, influential mentors play a pivotal role. For Adina, her former boss, Jan Carr at Lohmann Specialty Coatings, stands out. Jan not only built Adina’s confidence but also ensured her voice was heard in a predominantly male industry.
Being a female professional in a male-dominated field comes with unique challenges, and Adina has faced them head-on. Building connections and collaboration in technical and sales roles proved challenging, but her resilience prevailed. Balancing a demanding sales job with motherhood added another layer of complexity, but Adina acknowledges the unwavering support from her family.
Beyond Flexography
Beyond the realm of flexography, Adina Starke’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through with her part-time venture, Enchantment Essentials. As the founder of this handmade Bath & Body company, Adina delves into the world of soapmaking with a focus on crafting visually appealing products that not only stimulate the senses but also offer valuable skincare benefits.
In the midst of her demanding career in the printing industry, Adina found a unique outlet for her creativity. Enchantment Essentials is a source of pride for Adina, who has successfully blended her technical expertise with artisanal craftsmanship. Her dedication to the craft has garnered recognition, and she was featured in the Clemson World Magazine from 2019 to 2022, showcasing her entrepreneurial journey and passion for creating high-quality bath and body products.
Words of Wisdom for Young Professionals
Adina’s advice for young professionals is rooted in resilience and adaptability. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, view change as a chance to excel, and never underestimate the power of continuous learning and curiosity. Success, according to Adina, is a blend of hard work, a positive mindset, and the ability to thrive in dynamic environments.
Current Reads and Industry Connections
Adina’s choice of reading material, “Who Moved My Cheese?” by Dr. Spencer Johnson, reflects her understanding of the inevitability of change and the importance of adapting to it. In the world of flexography, she finds immense value in industry groups like the Flexographic Technical Association (FTA), which provides resources and networking opportunities. Additionally, The Women of Flexo, a supportive community for women in the industry, holds a special place in her professional life.
In conclusion, Adina Starke’s journey in flexography is a narrative of passion, resilience, and success. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring professionals, showcasing the importance of planning, mentorship, and unwavering determination in navigating the twists and turns of a challenging industry.
