01 My Purpose

Lessons from the Track

Bill Bowerman’s words, shared with me during my freshman year at the University of Oregon, were the first to make me seriously reflect on purpose—both as an individual and as part of a team. Back then, my days were defined by a dual focus: pushing myself academically in Math and Computer Science, and competing against some of the best middle-distance runners in the world. I was learning how to learn, and learning how to compete.

“Running, one might say, is basically an absurd pastime upon which to be exhausting ourselves. But if you can find meaning in the kind of running you have to do to stay on this team, chances are you will be able to find meaning in another absurd pastime: life.” — Bill Bowerman

My Journey with Nike

Two years after graduation, in 1977, I joined Nike. That decision set me on a path that has taken me to 22 footwear-producing countries and through a wide range of roles: IT (twice), Product Testing, Manufacturing, Scheduling, Product Creation, Footwear Materials, HR, Global Sourcing & Manufacturing, and now Footwear Supply Chain.

I’ve been part of Nike teams driving major business change—transforming how we work through people, process, and technology, using methodologies like Project, Transition, Program, and Portfolio Management.

If there’s a constant at Nike, it’s change. Our business is change.

Sharing the Story

I captured many of my experiences in my book, 1972: Pre, UO Track, Nike Shoes, and My Life with Them All. My story is a personal addendum to Nike’s larger narrative—not out of ego, but because untold stories fade, and with them, the lessons future generations might need.

Phil Knight wrote an endorsement:

“Steve Bence, a nationally ranked 800-meter runner and 40-plus year teammate of mine at Nike, brings a unique perspective on the Nike story. I enjoyed his book and think you will too.”

Greg Bui added:

“After 42 years of having his fingerprints all over this company (a quote from our founder Phil Knight), we think Steve is uniquely qualified to tell Nike’s manufacturing story. Steve’s love for Nike is infectious, and so is his passion for story.”

Purpose in Action

In recent years, I’ve had the privilege of speaking to many teams, kicking off workshops, a guest speaker, and leading heritage trips to Eugene—over 150 times—with more than ten thousand Nike and factory employees from around the world. Each engagement is unique, tailored to the audience, but the underlying message is always about finding meaning in our work and connecting it to Nike’s broader purpose.

A reader once told me:

“I thoroughly enjoyed 1972. Frankly, I’m not sure Nike would have grown beyond a niche product—gotta have that worldwide manufacturing and supply chain, right? You and your fellow supply chain / manufacturing peers are the real heroes of Nike.”

Why It Matters for Us

For our Footwear Supply Chain Leadership team—and for all Nike employees—understanding our purpose isn’t just a philosophical exercise. It’s the foundation for how we tackle challenges, drive innovation, and build the future together. Our stories, our lessons, and our collective journey are what keep Nike moving forward.

Honor the Past | Create the Future.

At Nike, there is no finish line.