Source: Pet Food Processing / Sosland Publishing Co.

KANSAS CITY, MO. — Supplier partnerships are essential to the pet food industry. Beyond providing key ingredients and innovative equipment, suppliers support the science behind production, help manufacturers solve formulation challenges and conduct research that advances the future of pet food. That mission guides companies like Camlin Fine Sciences, where Heidi Decker is leading efforts to better support pet food manufacturers.

“At the end of the day, the goal is to be more than just a supplier. We want to be a true partner by delivering solutions that help improve quality, optimize performance and support long-term success,” Decker said.

In the following Q&A, Decker discusses her path into pet food, the value of technical expertise and partnerships, and trends shaping the industry.

PFP: How did you get your start in the pet industry, and how did that experience lead you to where you are now?

Decker: I’ve always loved animals and ended up getting a biology degree from Avila University. After that, I found myself in food science at a local Kansas City third-party testing lab, where I worked as a microbiologist testing a variety of samples, including pet food and treats.

During my time at the lab, I was able to expand my skillset and transition into business development. That role led me to the Pet Food Alliance, where I continued building my network and knowledge within the industry. Everyone in this space is so dedicated, and I quickly realized I wanted to work more directly with pet food manufacturers.

Now at Camlin Fine Sciences, as the Technical Sales Manager for Pet Food & Rendering, I get to do that every day, working alongside customers to extend shelf life, protect against oxidation, and make sure their products maintain quality from production through the end of shelf life.

PFP: What has been your biggest challenge — personal or professional — related to your work in the pet industry?

Decker: One of the biggest challenges has been keeping pace with how quickly the pet industry evolves while still delivering consistent, meaningful results for customers. Expectations around quality, transparency and performance continue to rise, and the landscape is constantly shifting.

At the same time, my role sits at the intersection of science and relationships. Pet food decisions are highly technical, but they’re also built on trust and long-term partnerships. Learning how to translate complex technical information into clear, practical solutions while staying ahead of industry changes has been a key area of growth for me. It’s pushed me to be both proactive and adaptable in how I support customers and create value.

PFP: Tell me about a professional accomplishment in the pet industry that you are proud of.

Decker: Helping break the stereotype has probably been one of my biggest accomplishments. When I joined Camlin Fine Sciences about three years ago, I had experience in pet food through microbiology testing and lab sales, but I had never stepped foot in a rendering facility. Walking into those environments for the first time, I could feel the skepticism. There was definitely a moment of “who’s this?” and an assumption that I won’t understand the process or last very long on a tour.

The reality was very different. My background gave me a strong foundation, and honestly, some of those lab environments can be just as intense. Over time, I’ve learned that confidence paired with real technical knowledge makes all the difference. Once you can speak the language, ask the right questions and add value, perceptions shift quickly. That experience pushed me to trust my expertise and show up with confidence, even in unfamiliar settings.

PFP: What is top of mind for you and/or your business in the industry right now?

Decker: Expanding is definitely top of mind right now. That includes growing our customer base but also deepening the relationships we already have. It’s not just about adding new accounts, it’s about finding more ways to support customers across their operations.

We’re also focused on expanding our product portfolio and the technical services that go along with it. Providing a strong product is only part of the equation. Being able to back that up with data, testing and hands-on support is where we really add value.

At the end of the day, the goal is to be more than just a supplier. We want to be a true partner by delivering solutions that help improve quality, optimize performance and support long-term success.

PFP: If you could pick three trends influencing the industry today, which are the most important and why?

Decker: Transparency and ingredient awareness: Pet owners and manufacturers want to know what’s in their pet’s food and why. This is raising expectations for sourcing, testing and accountability. Transparency is one of Camlin Fine Sciences' core values and continues to drive how we support our customers.

Hybrid feeding and alternative formats: Fresh, frozen and air-dried diets continue to grow, often alongside traditional kibble. That’s driving a rise in hybrid feeding, where these formats are combined with kibble to balance quality, performance and cost.

Specialty products and functional nutrition: Treats, toppers and functional add-ons are becoming part of everyday feeding routines. This fast-growing category allows for targeted nutrition, improved palatability and specific health benefits.

PFP: What is something about the pet industry that people outside of the industry may not realize?

Decker: It’s far more interconnected than it appears. What happens in rendering, ingredient supply, and manufacturing all directly impact the final pet food product. There are a lot of moving parts, and each one plays a critical role in ensuring both safety and performance.

At the same time, it’s an industry fueled by people who genuinely care. There’s a strong sense of responsibility because, at the end of the day, the work we do directly impacts animal health and the trust pet owners place in those products.

PFP: What advice would you give to other women in this industry?

Decker: Make your own mold, don’t try to fit into someone else’s. Lean into what makes you effective and different; that’s where your value is.

Be open to change and take chances. That’s where real growth and progress happen, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.

And build your network. Surround yourself with supportive women and men in the industry who are willing to share experiences, challenge you and help you grow. I wouldn’t be where I am without that.

Heidi Decker’s pup Ember Reign. 

PFP: Just for fun, do you consider yourself a dog person or a cat person? Or, if you have pets of your own, tell us a little bit about them. 

Decker: I do have a grand cat named Zephyr, but I’m definitely a dog person. On May 1, I rescued Ember Reign from KC Pet Project. She’s a mixed breed; of Terrier, Akita and Husky. She has been the sweetest addition and was very much needed after going eight months without a dog. She is my third rescue from KC Pet Project.

With a personal passion for animals, Heidi Decker has served on the food science side of the pet food industry for more than 20 years. She originally began her career at Great Plains Analytical Laboratory before joining Camlin Fine Sciences as technical sales manager for Pet Food and Rendering. Decker has a bachelor of science in Biology from Avila University. 

Continue reading about other female leaders featured in our Women in the Pet Industry series.