High School
Supply chain managers need good business management skills and the ability to communicate clearly with a variety of people. Classes in math, business, English, data science and analytics, and computer science (including artificial intelligence) are helpful in this type of work.
Postsecondary Education
Many companies prefer to hire supply chain managers with a bachelor's degree in supply chain management, business, or systems engineering. Courses in operations and database management, logistics, accounting, English, and computers are essential. Classes in marketing and product development may also be useful.
Some aspiring supply chain managers prepare for the field by completing apprenticeships. A list of companies and organizations that offer logistics apprenticeships in the United States is available at https://www.apprenticeship.gov/apprenticeship-job-finder. The U.S. Department of Labor also funds a resource called FASTPORT (https://nationalapprenticeship.org) that seeks to connect aspiring logistics professionals and other types of apprentices with qualified training providers.
Certification
Many colleges and universities offer certificate programs in supply chain management, logistics, and emerging technologies. They are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats, and they typically last six months to a year. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.
The Association for Supply Chain Management, Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals, MHI, and Institute for Supply Management offer certificate programs in supply chain technology, supply chain planning, and other fields. Contact these organizations for more information.
Other Education or Training
The Association for Supply Chain Management, Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals, Institute for Supply Management, WERC, and other organizations offer continuing education seminars, webinars, and other learning opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.
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