WSU and AIAG partner on new vehicle supply chain executive education program

The Wayne State University School of Business Administration, in cooperation with the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG), is offering a non-degree certificate program designed to provide participants with an in-depth understanding of supply chain topics and issues in the context of the global vehicle industry.

The WSU-AIAG program is being taught by a combination of academic faculty and seasoned industry professionals. This mix of academics and professionals will bring decades of SCM (supply chain management) auto industry experience to students, along with SCM perspectives from other industries.

"What makes this program so effective is the significant input from automotive supply chain management veterans who will not only contribute their experience and expertise, but also will provide participants with the absolute latest in trends, developments and best practices in global supply chain management," said J. Scot Sharland, AIAG’s executive director. "We’re excited about the opportunity to partner with Wayne State University and are confident that, together, we can help accelerate the development of a new generation of supply chain professionals."

The program began in February, and is offered over 24 weekly sessions in the winter and fall, with break weeks built into the schedule. There is a three-month break in the summer when students will work on a company-related project.

By the end of the course, the 27 participants will learn about a broad range of vehicle industry-oriented supply chain topics including SCM strategy, SCM finance, forecasting, negotiations, procurement strategy, supplier development, risk management, production operations, quality management processes and Six Sigma, trade management, logistics and transportation management.

"This program is targeted at high-potential staff who may or may not have had formal SCM training in school," said John Taylor, director of supply chain programs at WSU, and one of the creators of the partnership. "It covers many of the big issues they face in their current jobs and that they will face as they continue to advance in their careers."

Taylor is already working out details for future vehicle supply chain offerings. For more information, contact him at 313-577-4525 or taylorjohn@wayne.edu.

For more information on other executive education opportunities in the School of Business Administration, contact Marcus Dickson at 313-577-8524 or marcus.dickson@wayne.edu.

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