“Fragmented data hinders sustainability,” said Danielle Goad of Specright

What inspired you to pursue a career in the packaging industry?

Danielle Goad - I feel fortunate to have discovered packaging during my studies. I was initially torn between architecture, engineering, new technologies, and the business side of things. At Cal Poly, I found a program that brought all of those interests together — with packaging at the core. I’ve always been intrigued by how everyday products come to life, and packaging is where creativity, engineering, and sustainability meet. As I learned more, I became fascinated by the data and collaboration needed to make packaging sustainable at scale.

What is one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a young leader in the packaging industry?

Danielle Goad - One of the biggest early challenges was earning credibility in rooms filled with experts who had been in the industry for decades. I learned quickly that the best way to lead was through curiosity, which also aligns with one of Specright’s core values: “We will be active learners.” I have been lucky to be surrounded by change makers on the packaging and R&D side of businesses by helping lead our Academia Program and the Sustainable Packaging Data Council at Specright. It’s less about age, more about contribution and curiosity.

If you could change one misconception about packaging, what would it be?

Danielle Goad - I’d challenge the idea that packaging progress is mainly about new materials, because the real barrier to sustainability and speed is fragmented, inaccessible data. Real change will come when brands, converters and regulators can collaborate on a shared digital foundation of specification data, ensuring that every claim, material choice or recycling target is grounded in traceable and credible information. With transparent, accessible data, packaging engineers can stop chasing documents and instead focus on designing smarter, more sustainable packaging.

This year marks 25 years of Paris Packaging Week. What legacy do you hope this new generation of Future Leaders will leave behind for the next 25 years?

Danielle Goad - I hope our generation is remembered for bridging the gap between technology and packaging. This means making digital transformation tangible in how products are designed, tracked, and improved. As digital natives, we have grown up with technology and are starting to see the impacts of AI, automation, and instant data access in our personal lives. We’ll bring those expectations into how the packaging industry operates. The next 25 years will be defined by collaboration: connecting design, suppliers, and compliance through shared data and emerging technologies.

What advice would you give to young professionals who are just starting their careers in packaging?

Danielle Goad - Stay endlessly curious, because packaging sits at the crossroads of design, materials, logistics and regulation — the more of that ecosystem you understand, the more impact you can make. Build your network early, as this industry thrives on relationships and trust. And take on the tough projects others avoid: one of my mentors told me to “run toward the fires,” because that’s where you learn fastest and create the most value.

What does it mean to you to be selected as a Future Leader?

Danielle Goad - Being selected as a Future Leader is both humbling and energizing. It’s more than a recognition - it’s a call to action! To me, it means representing a generation that challenges old habits and drives progress through technology, data, and collaboration. I see it as a responsibility to use our platform to spotlight how digital tools and connected data can help brands make better and more sustainable decisions faster.

Can you share an example of a packaging design, innovation, or brand you consider truly iconic?

Danielle Goad - For me, the most iconic innovations in packaging aren’t just visual — they’re systemic, and Agentic AI will radically accelerate how we design and validate concepts before a prototype even exists. We’re already seeing early signals with companies like Givaudan, whose tools such as Myrissi and Carto show how AI can connect sensory experience, formulation, and creativity in real time. This kind of intelligence doesn’t replace artistry; it elevates it by making development faster, more responsible, and more precise. The next generation of “iconic” packaging won’t just look good; it will think better, blending data-driven insight with creative ambition.