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As a college freshman, what do I need to do to advance in supply chain management? #Spring25

I'm going into my freshman year of college and am looking for ways to ensure that I am successful in my career after college. What can I do while in college to ensure I am career ready? #Spring25

spring25 college-advice supply-chain supplychainmanagement university-of-minnesota
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Ann’s Answer

Hi Zachary. Advancing in supply chain management as a college student requires a combination of academic preparation, practical experience, and networking. Here is some guidance you can follow:

Build a Strong Academic Foundation
• Relevant courses: Focus on courses like logistics, operations management, procurement, inventory management, data analytics, and business strategy.
• Technical skills: Learn software and tools commonly used in SCM:
• ERP systems: SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Dynamics
• Data analysis: Excel (advanced), SQL, Tableau, Power BI
• Optimization tools: Python for supply chain modeling, R, or MATLAB

Gain Practical Experience
• Internships: Apply for internships in logistics companies, manufacturing, retail, or consulting firms with SCM departments. Real-world exposure is invaluable.
• Campus projects: Participate in operations or logistics simulations and case competitions.
• Part-time work: Roles in warehouse management, procurement, or inventory can give practical insights.

Develop Certifications

Certifications can give you an edge early in your career:
• APICS/ASCM: CPIM (Certified in Production and Inventory Management), CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional)
• ISM: Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)
• Lean/Six Sigma: Green Belt or Yellow Belt certifications
• Logistics and transportation: CLTD (Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution)

Network Strategically
• Professional associations: Join APICS/ASCM, ISM, or CSCMP. Attend workshops, webinars, and conferences.
• LinkedIn networking: Connect with professionals, alumni, and recruiters in SCM. Share insights, articles, or projects to showcase your interest.
• Mentorship: Seek a mentor in supply chain management who can guide your career decisions.

Stay Updated & Learn Continuously
• Follow trends in SCM: AI in supply chain, blockchain for tracking, sustainable logistics, global supply chain disruptions.
• Read industry publications like:
• Supply Chain Management Review
• Logistics Management
• Harvard Business Review (operations & logistics sections)

Plan Your Career Path
• Decide which area of SCM excites you: procurement, logistics, operations, planning, supply chain analytics, or consulting.
• Tailor your internships, certifications, and projects toward that path.

Extra Tip: Start small with personal projects or case studies. For example, you could analyze the supply chain of a popular product (like how smartphones reach consumers) and create a short report or presentation. It shows initiative and practical understanding to future employers.

Happy tech career! 😊👏
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Kimberly’s Answer

It's great that you're thinking ahead for life after graduation! Start by seeing if your school offers any programs, classes, or clubs that can add to your degree. Learning skills like Excel is important, but also consider newer areas like AI that are becoming popular in companies. Critical thinking and analytical skills are also valuable. Look into companies you admire and see what skills they focus on. If you're interested in a supply chain role, developing people skills, understanding diversity and inclusion, coaching, and team-building can be very helpful. These skills are often overlooked but are crucial for success. Good luck!
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Helaine’s Answer

Hi Zachary,

Just like Jane mentioned, getting internships and certifications is a fantastic way to set yourself up for success. A good start is joining a Supply Chain organization. This can help you attend career fairs, develop your resume, and network with alumni. Plus, it will give you a better idea of which areas of supply chain you might want to explore.

I suggest getting comfortable with data analysis, especially with cost and spending data. Understanding the operations and financial aspects is a big part of supply chain work. With technology growing, it’s also useful to learn about popular Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems used in the field. This knowledge will help you in your career and show recruiters that you understand the daily workings of supply chain management!
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Manmohan’s Answer

Hi Zachary,

I would recommend identifying skill gaps using Job profiles that interest you. Evaluate your skillsets in both Technical skills and soft skills dimensions. Undertake online courses and certifications, podcasts, videos to bridge the gaps. This should help set the platform to launch your career.
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Javier’s Answer

Excel and SQL are foundational. Add scripting and AI-based tools-- this is now part of baseline capability.

What differentiates isn't technical knowledge. It's vision. The ability to understand an end-to-end system, see constraints and opportunities, and define what should change.

Finally, people who are succesful and move forward are those who have a clear perspective (or point of view) and are able to communicate it effectively.
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Jane’s Answer

What You Can Do in College:
Take the Right Classes
Focus on supply chain, logistics, data analysis, and operations management. Bonus points for Excel and SQL skills!

Join a Supply Chain or Business Club
It’s a great way to meet peers, attend events, and learn from professionals.

Get Internships (Even Small Ones Count)
Any hands-on experience in logistics, inventory, or operations is gold—even if it’s part-time or unpaid.

Network Early
Connect with professors, alumni, and guest speakers on LinkedIn. Don’t be shy—they love helping motivated students.

Certifications Help
Look into basic certifications like APICS CPIM Part 1, Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt, or even Google Data Analytics.
Your Goal by Senior Year:
A solid GPA

1–2 internships

Some basic technical and analytics skills

A professional network starting to form

You’re already thinking like a supply chain pro—planning ahead and optimizing the path. Keep at it!
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