Ep. 20 - Supply Chain Management In Universities

The Supply Chaney Podcast

In this episode we talk with Dr. Brian Sauser, a prominent figure in supply chain management education in North Texas and beyond. Dr. Sauser shares his unique journey from studying agriculture at Texas A&M, to leading a lab working on life support systems for Mars missions at NASA, to academia, where he is the Chair of the Supply Chain Management Department at the University of North Texas which was ranked as the #4 undergrad supply chain management program by Gartner in 2024. The conversation explores the evolution of supply chain as a gritty industry to one of technology and innovation, the concept of supply networks rather than linear supply chains, and the need for degree programs to focus 80% on core knowledge like the bullwhip effect and 20% on the current and future trends like AI. While the industry and profession has peaked in visibility post-Covid, there is still a need to generate greater awareness of supply chain careers among high school students and community college students to draw in future practitioners.
Key Takeaways:

• The supply chain field has evolved significantly in recent years thanks to technology that enables end-to-end supply chain visibility and control.
• AI is a valuable tool but should not replace critical thinking. Don't leave all of the "I" in the "AI".
• Trust has become a crucial currency in supply chain relationships that is and must be established in hours or days and not years.
• Curriculum development must balance core knowledge with innovation.
• Awareness is essential for attracting the future logistics workforce.
• The shift from linear supply chains to multi-faceted supply networks.
• Engaging with industry professionals helps keep curriculum relevant.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Brian Sauser and His Journey

03:25 - From Agriculture to Space to Academia

05:07 - UNT Supply Chain Management Program

07:30 - Academic Leadership vs Industry Leadership

09:37 - Evolution of Supply Chain Management Degrees

12:35 - Impact of Tech and Trust On Supply Chain Management

16:28 - Curriculum Is 80% Fundamentals & 20% Innovation

18:57 - Promoting Supply Chain Degrees and Careers In High School

23:29 - AI's Presence in Supply Chain Curriculum

34:59 - Personal Insights and Future of Supply Chain