Offered in the first five-week session, Supply Chain Challenges in 2020 and Future Implications (SCMA 391), explored the supply chain structure of popular and necessary products that experienced shortages and stock-outs, the impact of the pandemic on food supply chains and the role of government policies in promoting supply chain responsiveness. Students discussed lessons learned, particularly strategies for building resilient supply chains and the role of emerging innovations and technology, to address supply chain needs in the future.
“The fragility of the supply chain has been on display with the pandemic, and I think students enjoyed learning about markets and products that impact their everyday life. We worked together on building skills – like critical thinking and problem solving – that will help them in their future endeavors after college,” said Shawntell Kroese, who leveraged her executive-level experience at a Fortune 500 company and a strong supply chain management background in the corporate world with diverse industries.
Each week, students went on a deep-dive into a particular market and utilized current articles, case studies and interviews with experts in these markets. The format of the class provided flexibility while learning remotely. Students of any major were able to enroll with no prerequisites required.
The students worked at their own pace and each week culminated in a project, such as a short paper, executive summary or presentation. There were no required meeting times, but Shawntell held zoom calls and office hours to provide feedback as she worked together with her students.