In response to growing demand from supply chain employers to connect with new hires, UT’s Haslam College of Business is launching the Supply Chain Management Scholars of Distinction program.
Greater operational complexities have caused a talent gap in the supply chain industry, which many companies seek to fill with new graduates, according to UT’s Global Supply Chain Institute.
“More than 90 percent of CEOs recognize that they need to change their strategies for managing talent,” said Chad Autry, head of UT’s marketing and supply chain management department. “If they don’t source talent like any other resource, then their supply chains will likely fall behind.”
The new program identifies top talent in supply chain majors as early as their freshman year, providing them with career guidance, peer mentors, and networking opportunities.
“Increasingly, we find our recruiters want to build relationships with our best and brightest students as soon as possible,” said Dianne Marshall, director of student career management for the department. “It’s wonderful for the students because the program provides them with one more vehicle to establish career goals, hone professional skills, and learn more about the working world.”
Companies that are members of UT’s Supply Chain Forum will engage with the members of the Scholars of Distinction during biannual speed networking sessions. They will also have the opportunity to host next-day meet and greets while on campus. The sessions allow recruiters to identify interns prior to the regular fall and spring recruiting events.
The Scholars of Distinction are selected each semester based on their grade point averages and their academic year. Applicants are encouraged to apply early in their college careers and must meet minimum grade requirements for core classes within the supply chain major. The most talented students will be identified early on in their academic career. So far, thirty-seven undergraduate students have been selected.
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CONTACT:
Katie Bahr (865-974-3589, katiebahr@utk.edu)
Tyra Haag (865-974-5460, tyra.haag@tennessee.edu)