Breaking Barriers, Building Belts: Stephenie Davis Named President of NIBA
The 2025 NIBA Annual Convention in Dallas was one for the history books. After days of connecting, learning, and celebrating the belting industry, a new chapter officially began as the gavel was passed to Stephenie Davis, President & CEO of Davis Industrial.
Stephenie now becomes only the second woman ever to hold the presidency of NIBA in its nearly 100-year history —she will actually be the 99th president of NIBA, a milestone not just for her, but for the entire belting industry. Her appointment is a reminder of how far our industry has come, and how much more we can achieve when leadership reflects the strength of the people who make it great.
Her journey has been anything but ordinary. From helping grow Davis Industrial from a three-person shop into a 50-employee powerhouse serving clients across the U.S. and beyond, to serving on countless NIBA committees over the years, Stephenie has consistently brought vision, grit, and heart to every role she has taken on. Those who know her know that her leadership style combines innovation with authenticity — and that same spirit will guide her as NIBA President.
And of course, she’s not doing it alone. Stephenie shared that she couldn’t take on this role without the unwavering support of her husband, Alex Garcia — a trailblazer in his own right and only the second “First Man” in NIBA history — and the entire Davis Industrial team, who continue to raise the bar behind the scenes every day.
This transition also marks the start of a new era of leadership for NIBA. A special thanks goes to Mark Jadwin for his service as President and to Sergio Restagno as he steps in as the incoming Vice President. With this powerhouse group at the helm, the future of NIBA is in very capable hands.
Dallas gave us the perfect send-off into this exciting new era. The conversations, the connections, and the energy from this year’s convention reminded us all why NIBA is more than an association — it’s a community. And now, with Stephenie taking the helm, we’re looking forward to a year of growth, progress, and a few well-placed challenges to help us all raise the bar.
Make no mistake: the momentum is just getting started. Next stop? San Diego, September 2026 — where the stage is set for a presidency that will inspire, challenge, and move our industry forward.
Stay tuned. This story is only beginning.