Universities Adapt Supply Chain Curriculum to Include AI Skills

The increasing importance of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology skills in supply chain operations is prompting universities to adapt their curricula to meet industry demands. This shift is reflected in the educational offerings at institutions like The Ohio State University, where students are gaining exposure to generative AI and predictive analytics as part of their supply chain management studies.

The Evolution of Supply Chain Education

Over the past few decades, the field of supply chain management has undergone significant transformation. In 2000, there were merely a dozen academic programs dedicated to this discipline. Today, that number has expanded to over 700, reflecting the growing complexity and importance of supply chain operations in the global economy. This expansion is accompanied by a shift in the skills required by supply chain professionals, who now need a deeper understanding of technology than was necessary 25 years ago.

Universities are responding by integrating technology-focused coursework into their supply chain management lessons. This integration is driven by the industry's ongoing AI revolution, which demands a workforce proficient in both AI and business skills. The Ohio State University, for example, offers courses where students learn to use AI and machine learning to solve real-life case studies, such as the Suez Canal blockage, a major event that disrupted global trade.

Incorporating AI into the Curriculum

At The Ohio State University's Fisher College of Business, Assistant Professor Vince Castillo teaches a logistics and supply chain analytics course that emphasizes the application of AI in supply chain management. Students are taught how to leverage AI technologies such as generative AI and predictive analytics to improve supply chain visibility and planning.

The curriculum aims to equip students with the skills needed to handle both structured and unstructured data, enabling them to make real-time decisions for shipping and carrier operations. By providing a unified data layer, AI facilitates cohesive information management, enhancing the orchestration of supply chain processes beyond mere automation.

The Association for Supply Chain Management also recognizes the essential role of AI in modern supply chains. It offers certifications that include lessons on using AI and machine learning, underscoring the importance of these technologies in the current workforce landscape. Surveys indicate that 45% of supply chain professionals already use AI chatbots in their roles, highlighting the growing reliance on AI tools.

The Role of AI in Strategic Planning and Risk Management

AI's impact on supply chain management extends to third-party risk management and strategic planning. Generative AI, for instance, supports simulations and strategic decision-making, providing companies with enhanced capabilities to anticipate and respond to potential disruptions.

Supply chain expert Norman Katz, author of several books on the subject, emphasizes the need for supply chains to be reflexive and adaptable. With AI's ability to analyze vast amounts of data, companies can improve their risk management practices and maintain operational continuity even in the face of challenges.

Diageo, recognized as the 2025 Supply Chain Visionary, exemplifies the trend of integrating AI into supply chain operations. The company's strategic use of AI tools aligns with the top trends for 2024, which call for investment in talent capable of leveraging AI for business success.

Balancing Technology and Human-Centric Decision Making

While AI is a powerful tool for enhancing supply chain operations, experts stress the importance of maintaining a focus on people and processes. AI should be seen as a tool that enables business processes, rather than replacing the human element entirely.

Data-driven insights provided by AI should inform human-centric decisions, ensuring that supply chains remain adaptable and responsive to changing circumstances. This balance between technology and human expertise is crucial for the future success of supply chain management.

A survey of 1,000 CxOs and executives across 20 sectors in 10 major industries underscores the importance of workforce enablement with AI. Companies are increasingly emphasizing the need for AI and technology skills within their supply chain workforce, highlighting the growing intersection of technology and business processes.

As universities continue to adapt their curricula to meet these evolving demands, the next generation of supply chain professionals will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of modern supply chain operations, ensuring that they can contribute effectively to their organizations' success in an AI-driven world.