NextGen Supply Chain Conference Highlights Industry Trends and Certification Opportunities

The NextGen Supply Chain Conference, organized by Supply Chain Management Review, is set to take place on October 22, 2025. It aims to provide senior-level executives across various industries with strategic insights into the evolving landscape of supply chain management. The conference will feature keynote speeches, breakout sessions, and opportunities for industry professionals to explore new trends and certification opportunities.

Industry Trends and Technological Innovations

At the forefront of the conference is the focus on advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and the Internet of Things (IoT), which are rapidly transforming supply chain operations. Notably, AI-driven digital freight matching platforms are emerging as a significant trend, reshaping the brokerage landscape by transitioning supply chains from reactive to predictive systems.

The event will highlight the integration of AI in logistics, with keynote addresses from industry leaders like Val Marchevsky of Uber Freight and Todd Stillwell from Dole Packaged Foods. Discussions will emphasize the role of AI in enhancing supply chain resilience and its potential to drive autonomous fulfillment and trucking.

Certification Opportunities for Professional Development

As the supply chain industry continues to evolve, professional development through certifications remains crucial for career advancement. The conference will spotlight several certification programs, including those offered by APICS, ISM, and CSCMP.

APICS certifications, such as the Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), and Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD), are recognized worldwide as standards of professional competence in supply chain management.

The APICS CPIM certification consists of eight modules and prepares professionals for planning and inventory management roles. Similarly, the CSCP certification provides a comprehensive understanding of supply chain management, while the CLTD designation focuses on logistics, transportation, and distribution expertise. Maintaining these certifications requires earning 75 professional development points every five years.

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) offers the Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity® (CPSD®) Program, which necessitates passing the CPSD exam and having relevant experience in supplier diversity or supply chain management. Additionally, the Next Level Purchasing Association (NLPA) offers multi-level certification programs, such as the SPSM, which includes online courses and exams.

Educational Programs and Partnerships

Numerous educational institutions provide certificate programs in supply chain management, designed to enhance skills and knowledge among industry professionals. Notably, institutions like Michigan State University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and the University of California offer a range of online and in-person programs.

For instance, MIT's Executive Certificate in Technology, Operations, and Value Chain Management caters to senior managers and executives, while the MITx MicroMasters® Program offers a graduate-level foundation in supply chain management through online courses.

Columbus State Community College and DePaul University offer certificate programs that prepare students for APICS certification exams. These programs aim to equip participants with the necessary competencies to excel in supply chain management roles.

Addressing Challenges and Building Resilience

The conference will address the multifaceted challenges facing global supply chains, including climate change, tariffs, and operational inefficiencies. Companies are increasingly investing in digitization to mitigate these issues, particularly within the agricultural supply chain, where digital tools are seen as a means to enhance clarity and resilience.

GEP will provide key strategies for companies to bolster supply chain resilience and financial stability amidst global trade uncertainty. Similarly, Hexagon Consultants' managing director, Sue Williams, will share insights on overlooked supply chain risks and the pitfalls of digital transformation, emphasizing the critical role of AI.

Quality management and innovation are pivotal in fortifying supply chain resilience, with companies deepening partnerships to develop fully integrated solutions. The temperature-controlled logistics industry, in particular, presents burgeoning career opportunities as it evolves with technological advancements.

In summary, the NextGen Supply Chain Conference serves as a platform for sharing strategic insights, exploring innovative solutions, and fostering professional growth through certification opportunities. As supply chain disruptions continue, the focus on AI, automation, and digital transformation is expected to drive the industry's evolution towards greater resilience and efficiency.