As many businesses struggle to keep up with the demands of supply chain management, one local institute is alleviating some of those requests.

Southwest Tech of Fennimore has created a online program directed toward advancing adult students’ knowledge of supply chain management–getting customers what they want, when they want it, as efficiently as possible. Supply chain professionals manage the flow of goods, activities, and information.

One unique aspect of the curriculum is that it is industry-based and modified to the specific needs of local companies.
“This program is important because it has been created to meet the workforce shortage,” said Dean of Business, Management, and General Studies Richard Ammon.  “We are able to directly respond to the requests and needs of employers in the tri-state region.”

The courses will cover supply chain activities from sourcing raw materials, to producing a finished product, to delivery of the product to customers. Students can choose to specialize in IT, Agribusiness, or Lean.

“We gathered information directly from employers to create the program and will continue to adjust course topics as suggested by the industry professionals on the advisory committee,” said Program Instructor Tonya Archie.  “This structure will result in well-rounded, in-demand graduates.”

Students will learn about activities including purchasing, inventory management, logistics, negotiations, enterprise resource planning, lean, and service operations.

Students will be given the opportunity to participate in internships while taking courses. If a student is already employed, Ammon said the student would have a chance to intern with their current company, if it is willing to partner with Southwest Tech.