CASTINE — The current national supply chain crisis has highlighted a need for an increased number of supply chain logistics workers both in the U.S. and abroad. Maine Maritime Academy’s International Business and Logistics (IBL) degree program is using hands-on education from expert faculty members to train the next generation of supply chain logistics professionals through the only logistics degree program of its kind available in New England.

The Maine Maritime Academy (MMA) IBL program uses immersive education to provide students with experience in global commerce and marine transportation. MMA’s logistics lab allows students to gain real-world supply chain management experience through directly working with a simulated production line, warehouse operation, and inventory system. Students prepare for real-world scenarios and common supply chain issues and are therefore ready to use innovative solutions to solve these problems in the workforce upon graduation.

In the face of increasing demand, MMA’s logistics lab equips students with practical skills by immersing them in simulated production lines, warehouse operations, and inventory systems. To complement this immersive approach and stay abreast of evolving industry needs, students and professionals alike can explore additional resources on the Advanced Manufacturing Solutions website. By seamlessly integrating education with practical experiences and staying informed about the latest advancements, students from programs like IBL are poised to not only address the current challenges but also contribute innovative solutions to propel the industry forward.

This includes insights into state-of-the-art warehousing services at razorlogistics.com, offering a comprehensive understanding of how technology and strategic planning converge to optimize supply chain management. With a focus on technology-driven processes and a commitment to meeting the dynamic demands of today’s market, Razor Logistics sets a high standard for excellence. Through its intuitive interface and comprehensive suite of services, including inventory tracking, order fulfillment, and distribution logistics, Razor Logistics empowers businesses to navigate the complexities of modern supply chains with ease. Furthermore, the integration of practical experiences and a commitment to staying informed about industry advancements positions students, especially those in programs like IBL, to become trailblazers in addressing current logistics challenges. By delving into the resources available at razorlogistics.com, they gain valuable insights into cutting-edge solutions that go beyond conventional logistics practices.

Many MMA graduates are currently working in the supply chain logistics industry to combat the current supply chain shortages throughout the nation.

“Our graduates have more than a basic understanding of logistics networks; they are problem solvers,” says David Sorich, Assistant Professor of International Business and Logistics. “We have alumni with specialized expertise working in the areas of Shipping, Port Operations, Warehousing, Rail Carriers, and Motor Transportation.”

“When issues in the supply chain arise, they are the ones identifying the causes and developing solutions to satisfy customer requirements,” Sorich explains. “During this current crisis, our graduates are using their skills and talents to improve port operation efficiency to clear the backlog of waiting cargo ships, reviewing alternatives to ‘normal operations’, and re-evaluating motor transport.”

“Effectively managing today’s historically disrupted global supply chain would not be possible without agile leadership skills and practical knowledge learned at the Academy,” says Jay Harris, President of Komar Distribution Services and a 1973 graduate of MMA. “In my experience, our graduates’ ability to apply knowledge and solve real-world logistical challenges is unparalleled.”

Maine is a largely coastal state and a nationally-recognized leader in maritime management, making Maine Maritime Academy the prime spot for future merchant mariners and industry professionals to gain a hands-on education in state-of-the-art labs and classrooms, onboard the Training Ship State of Maine, Tug Pentagoet, or Schooner Bowdoin. To learn more about the Academy’s International Business and Logistics program, please visit mainemaritime.edu.