Supply chain student leverages networking to secure internships and full-time job
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Nathan Clarke, a senior supply chain management student, is preparing for the workforce through four internships with the same company, stemming from networking experiences his freshman year. From Salem, Michigan, Clarke is growing his career with the support of Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business.
Since beginning his journey at WMU Haworth, Clarke has held four different internships with Owens Corning. Currently, he works as a supply chain analytics intern where his responsibilities include developing Power BI reports for multiple teams, leading supplier negotiations, conducting audits, issuing requests for proposals and contributing to AI initiatives.
“I found Owens Corning at the Supply Chain Career Night during my first year. My previous business experience gave me a strong foundation. During the interview, I made sure to use detailed situation, task, action, result (STAR-format) examples and showed genuine interest in the company, which I believe helped set me apart. After I graduate, I will be joining Owens Corning full-time in their supply chain and sourcing leadership program, which is a three-year rotational program.”
Within the college, Clarke has found ways to expand his professional scope through career fairs and student organizations like the Supply Chain Management Association (SCMA).
“SCMA has greatly prepared me and my peers for our future careers. Every week, we host employers and hold networking events afterwards, which is a great way to make connections in the professional world. Also, my position of senior director of operations has greatly improved my collaborative skills through peer mentoring and national case competitions, where I work in a team to solve a real-world issue, which allows us to apply and showcase our skills. These competitions are a great way to challenge ourselves as we get ready to enter our careers.”
WMU Haworth’s involvement in Clarke’s experiences has been extremely influential. “With college-sponsored career fairs, I’ve been able to connect with several employers, building relationships I’ll carry with me,” he says. “I found Owens Corning through a career fair, and I got four internships and now a full-time position out of attending a career preparation event. Put yourself out there—you never know where it will lead you.”
With a similar sentiment, Clarke shares some advice with future business students at WMU Haworth.
“Joining SCMA has contributed greatly to my sense of belonging—it brought me several new opportunities and countless connections. I recommend getting involved as much as possible; it provides much more personal and professional growth than you would think. Not only does becoming involved with clubs prepare you for the future, but it allows you to create countless connections that will be essential during and after your time at WMU Haworth.”
Learn more about supply chain management at WMU.
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