If you’ve ever wanted a career in supply chain management, but don’t know where to begin, you’re not alone. Fortunately, the field is growing at an impressive rate, and many opportunities are available for people with a variety of skills. Below, you’ll find some helpful tips on how to get started. By the time you’re finished reading this article, you’ll have the necessary skills to find a rewarding career in supply chain management.
Bachelor’s degree
With a Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, you’ll learn about the concepts and processes that make up the successful operation of a company’s supply chain. Coursework includes an introduction to analytic and problem-solving techniques, resource allocation, and production planning. The program also covers regulatory and economic issues affecting the supply chain. After graduation, you’ll be well prepared to pursue a graduate degree in the field.
The Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management will prepare you for a career in the supply-chain industry. A supply-chain manager oversees the efficient flow of goods, services, and finances from one point to another. Supply chain management also involves managing end-of-life disposal and reverse flows. Graduates of supply-chain management programs often find jobs in a variety of industries and gain invaluable field-based experience during the program’s capstone project and required internship.
Students may want to pursue a master’s degree in supply-chain management to advance their careers in the industry. A master’s degree in business administration can be specialized in supply-chain management. While master’s programs are not specifically tailored to supply-chain management, a master’s degree in business administration can cover the fundamentals of all business processes and specialize in the discipline. Entry requirements vary between schools, but may include competitive undergraduate GPAs, work experience, and letters of recommendation. To find the right program, check out these top-ranked universities.
Online Bachelor’s degrees in supply-chain management are available at a variety of schools. The Embry-Riddle University program is available through distance education. The program requires applicants to have completed at least four years of schooling, or to have an equivalent number of transferable college credits. A student may also take a minor in human resource management or a minor in human resources. Once completing the program, graduates can enter the field as a logistics specialist, purchasing and acquisitions manager, and a supply-chain director.
For students seeking a career as a supply-chain manager, a Bachelor’s degree in supply-chain management is essential for employment. This degree program will take four years to complete, and students can work while studying. In addition, the field of supply-chain management is constantly evolving, so individuals should stay current on the latest information. In addition to continuing to network with other professionals, you can also gain professional credentials through the Association for Supply Chain Management.
Graduates who complete a bachelor’s degree in supply-chain management can qualify for entry-level positions in logistics, purchasing, operations management, and warehouse operations. Internships in a local business will allow you to develop relevant skills and experience. Graduate programs are also available for students who want to pursue advanced management positions in supply-chain management. So if you’re interested in this field, don’t wait to start studying!
Internships
If you’re interested in a career in supply chain management, you may have several options when it comes to choosing an internship. A supply chain internship is a good way to gain practical experience. Interns may help with a variety of areas, including purchasing, inventory, and distribution. Typically, they will help the supply chain team find inefficiencies and make recommendations to upper management. These internships are an excellent way to get an introduction to the supply chain field and a start to a career in this area.
While you’re interning, get to know your co-workers and ask them questions about the company. You may find that a few of them are industry professionals and other supply chain interns who can provide you with valuable connections in the future. Be sure to ask for coffee dates or informational interviews. Your application should highlight your skill set and past experience. You can’t afford to be unprepared for an interview, so prepare for it and come prepared.
Once you’ve done this, you should create a LinkedIn profile and connect with supply chain professionals. Connect with supply chain executives, HR professionals, and recruiters. If you want to gain more knowledge about supply chain management, you should consider joining a supply chain community or network online. This way, you can build your professional network and get in touch with people who share your interests and goals. You might find that this is the perfect career for you.
While a supply chain internship can help a supply chain manager’s resume, it’s not for everyone. Interns bring fresh perspective and can spot inefficiencies in the organization. They’re also actively receiving education on the latest industry practices. By creating an internship role, you’ll be adding a low-risk option to your company and reap the benefits. There are several advantages to this type of internship, which are outlined below.
Interns in supply chain management can offer a fresh perspective on the industry and a low-risk way to break into the industry. Interns can help you build a strong resume and identify leads in the supply chain. A high GPA shows that a student has a strong concentration on studying and is hardworking. Additionally, an internship can boost your resume and improve your social and communication skills, which will further improve your supply chain management prospects.
Regardless of where you choose to begin your career in supply chain management, you’ll need a resume. These internships are designed to give students hands-on experience with various aspects of the industry. Some people opt for this route because they are looking to expand their technical skills. The skills gained during an internship prepare students for jobs in supply chain consulting, logistics engineering, sourcing, and manufacturing.
Certifications
A bachelor’s degree is often necessary for logistics professionals. Knowledge of current technologies and software is also advantageous, as is training in RFID. The work of a logistics professional involves managing and directing the movement of materials and products throughout the supply chain. The position requires analyzing processes and identifying weaknesses, and developing systems for determining customer and client needs. Successful logisticians also build strong relationships with suppliers and work with computer software to plan the movement of products.
There are three types of supply chain certifications. The first one, Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity, is a widely recognized credential. With this credential, supply chain practitioners are capable of identifying opportunities and challenges in supplier diversity programs and can assist organizations in making intelligent decisions based on that knowledge. Another certification that is widely recognized is the Certified Professional in Six Sigma (CPSM). The CPSM enables supply chain professionals to develop their knowledge by recognizing and addressing the challenges and opportunities that arise with supplier diversity. Likewise, the ISSSP promotes the integration and adoption of Six Sigma in business. Their community also serves as a resource for information and referrals.
As a first step toward a career in supply chain management, aspiring supply chain managers should pursue a bachelor’s degree. There are bachelor’s degree programs focusing on supply chains, business administration, or engineering. High school students should take competitive GPA and SAT scores in order to be considered for admission to these programs. Once accepted, students should submit a personal statement and letters of recommendation to establish their eligibility.
The Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) offers three certifications for supply chain professionals. The Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) requires three years of relevant experience and a bachelor’s degree. The certification also requires the holders to maintain 75 professional development points every five years. If these requirements aren’t met, certifications expire early and must be retaken. So, if you’re interested in a career in supply chain management, the ASCP certification is a great first step.
The CSCP is another excellent certification for supply chain management professionals. The certification covers a broad range of topics and is relatively affordable. It is an excellent choice for entry-level professionals. As the CSCP is highly respected in the supply chain industry, it’s also a good idea to consider stacking it with other certifications if you’re already experienced. So, before deciding on a certification, do your homework.
As a supply chain professional, you’ll need to acquire expertise in supply chain management methodology and fundamentals. You’ll need to perform a variety of tasks to succeed, including planning, logistics, S&OP, and more. You can achieve this expertise by completing a course or program. It’s important to note that you may need to obtain additional certifications in order to advance your career.
