91ÖÆÆ¬³§

91ÖÆÆ¬³§

We Are 91ÖÆÆ¬³§: Lisa Smith

Sam Giordano Portrait

Name: Lisa Smith

Program/Career: Supply Chain Management

One Word That Describes You: Curious

Hobbies: Reading, skiing, boating, pilates


What drew you to pursue a career in Supply Chain Management

I became aware of this field during my experience as an undergrad. I was always interested in business and this was a newer segment of business that, at the time, did not include a lot of women.

What do you love about it?

I love how supply chain is so broad and diverse in terms of the types of job and career opportunities. There truly is something for everyone - whether you enjoy leading teams, negotiating contracts, analyzing data or fulfilling customer orders, there is a role for everyone. I enjoy coordinating and teaching this program because of our students. We have some students who are brand new to this field, and others who are currently working in some type of a supply chain role. To be able to bring real-world experiences to the classroom is incredibly rewarding.

What led you to 91ÖÆÆ¬³§?

I learned about this opportunity at 91ÖÆÆ¬³§ at a time when I was ready to pivot my career toward more meaningful work. I had enjoyed a successful career in corporate supply chain as a Vice President of a Fortune 500 organization, and then as the Principal in my own consulting business. This role at 91ÖÆÆ¬³§ has allowed me the opportunity to build the program, while simultaneously giving me the chance to teach and mentor students in their careers.

What is your fondest memory at 91ÖÆÆ¬³§?

There are many fond memories. Each time I receive a note from a student that credits 91ÖÆÆ¬³§ and our program for helping them to achieve an exciting new job opportunity or promotion, it helps me to continue to want to do this work and make our program the best that it can be.

What challenges/opportunities do future professionals in this field face and how can 91ÖÆÆ¬³§ help prepare them?

Some of the key challenges include keeping up with change, especially in the area of technology. What we are seeing now in the space of E-commerce is driving may of the trends in supply chain management. These changes also lead to opportunities, so it is important that students learn to be comfortable with change and ambiguity, while mastering both the technical and leadership competencies that will be important to be successful in this field.

What advice do you have for students interested in pursuing a career in Supply Chain Management?

Acquiring credentials is a great way to start. Through either our AAS Degree options or our certificates in Inventory/Production Control, Logistics, Procurement and Supply Chain Management, we have a lot to offer.

Gaining work experience will also be helpful especially for students new to the field. Working through our Apprenticeship program, or acquiring a part-time Internship can both be great options for students pursuing a career path in this area. Finally, I always recommend that students leverage their intellectual curiosity through keeping up with what is going on in business and within different industries, both at a national and a global level.


Let's get started.

Learn more about 91ÖÆÆ¬³§â€™s Supply Chain Management program. Have questions about registration, financial aid or advising? Contact 91ÖÆÆ¬³§'s One Stop â€“ your one stop source for information.