ISM program among top 10 in the nation

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's integrated supply management program recently ranked No. 8 on national researcher Gartner's list of Top U.S. Supply Chain Undergraduate Programs. This distinction places it within the top tier of programs nationwide and is the third consecutive time WMU's program cracked the top 10 for this list.

WMU's high standing on the list places the University among elite programs at Michigan State, Rutgers, and Pennsylvania State universities, and Georgia Institute of Technology. The ranking is released biennially and considers a supply chain program's scope—its industry value as a highly recruited school, whether students have a broad understanding of industry concepts and program size. The 2018 ranking serves to solidify the strength of WMU's program, which was one of only three to be ranked in all three evaluation categories.

"Gartner's report is a result of what employers view as the perfect job candidate. The overwhelming answer was a blend of engineering, business and information technology skill sets," says Dr. Sime Curkovic, WMU professor of supply chain management. "We have been and will continue to be a program that gives employers exactly what they need."

"Not only are ISM students exposed to supply chain concepts in the classroom, but they also apply these concepts in numerous business settings," adds Dr. Robert Reck, WMU professor of marketing and director of the Center for Integrated Supply Management. "This is the future of supply chains—flexible, agile and responsive—and this is where WMU's program is leading the way."

About WMU's ISM program

WMU's integrated supply management program has been recognized nationally by several organizations and publications for its leadership in preparing students for careers in supply chain management. WMU's curriculum combines engineering, information technology, logistics, supply chain and business education. The program also includes Bronco Force consulting teams, which give students experience in business consulting with companies on their supply chain challenges. The WMU Center for Integrated Supply Management was established in 2014 by the Haworth College of Business.

Learn more about WMU's integrated supply management program.

For more information about the ranking, contact Dr. Robert Reck at @email or (269) 387-6107.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.