WSU-sponsored event teaches Macomb CC students about trends and careers in global supply chain

More than 250 students packed a conference room at Macomb Community College Tuesday afternoon to learn about educational and career opportunities in the growing field of global supply chain management. The event, co-sponsored by Macomb Community College Career Services and WSU’s School of Business Administration, included presentations and panel discussions on various aspects of the industry’s past, present and, probably most importantly, future.

The program began with a presentation by Mike Silvio, director of supply chain management at Novi, Michigan-based Cooper-Standard Automotive. Silvio, a WSU business alum, shared insights gained from his own experiences moving up the ladder in the automotive supply chain industry. He also discussed some of the important trends the students would need to address throughout their careers, including increased focus on globalization, inventory management, and security and sustainability.

Next up was John Taylor, the chair of WSU’s Department of Marketing and Global Supply Chain Management. Taylor spoke specifically about Metro Detroit’s leadership position in the advanced vehicle industry as well as its prominence in the agricultural, retail and healthcare supply chains.

Taylor went on to discuss educational opportunities in the field, including study abroad programs and a partnership between Macomb Community College and Wayne State that allows students to transfer up to 82 credits from Macomb to a WSU bachelor’s program in global supply chain management.

"And, even after they transfer, students can complete the rest of their undergraduate requirements at Macomb," Taylor added, referring to a relatively new and unique agreement between the two institutions.

The program continued with a panel discussion and breakout sessions led by professionals working at various levels of the industry. These also had a decidedly Wayne State flavor as most of the presenters had at least one degree from the university.

For more information on global supply chain management programs at Wayne State University, please visit http://business.wayne.edu/supplychain/index.php.

 

View all news stories