Dereck Esteph

Background

About Dereck Esteph

I am an experienced process engineer and operations leader with a strong background in the paper industry and powerhouse systems. Currently serving as Area Process Manager for the Energy and Chemical Recovery (ECR) department at International Paper’s Valliant Mill, I oversee critical processes that drive mill reliability and sustainability.The Valliant Mill is a ton-per-day containerboard facility featuring three paper machines, three continuous digesters, three secondary fiber plants, and a comprehensive utilities and chemical recovery complex. My responsibilities include optimizing high-pressure steam systems, recovery boilers, evaporators, lime kiln operations, and water treatment systems, while ensuring safety, environmental compliance, and operational excellence.Passionate about continuous improvement and team development, I focus on building a strong safety culture, enhancing operator training programs, and implementing strategies that improve efficiency and reliability across all ECR assets.