by 
Millennials want to make a difference … that’s the conventional wisdom about the workers taking their place in the high-tech industry currently. It’s more than just a wish in some cases. There are many shining stars bringing skills and attitudes to bear early in their supply chain careers in ways that make huge and measurable ways for their employers.
Recently, 30 Under 30 Rising Supply Chain Stars Recognition Program, run by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) and Thomas, shone a light these bright lights. The list included promising young professionals in a breadth of industries, but we’ve identified those working in the high-tech and electronics sectors at well-known component makers, distributors, and contract manufacturers.
“The accomplishments and talents of this group are nothing short of remarkable,” said Tom Derry, CEO of ISM. “They stand out for their international sensibility, cross-border innovations, digital problem-solving ability, and commitment to driving enterprise-wide value. These next-generation leaders are providing their organizations with a powerful competitive advantage on the worldwide stage.”
The awards, which are in the fourth year, recognizes individuals around the world (in the United States, as well as Spain, Switzerland and Singapore) in a variety of industries. The contest received hundreds of nominations, a number that has increased over the years, Tony Uphoff, president and CEO of Thomas told EBN. The highest number of winners, though, work in manufacturing—good news for electronics OEMs.
All of the winners are younger than 30 and demonstrate leadership, innovation, collaboration and other outstanding attributes at work and through their professional associations. “The latest 30 Under 30 winners exemplify the new generation of supply chain leadership,” said Uphoff. “They demonstrate daily what is possible to achieve in a profession that is riding the wave of innovation and creativity." Many (about 60 percent) of the winners reported that they had trained in school for a career in supply chain, a figure that will likely climb over time, predicted Deb Stanton, executive director of ISM.
“These well-rounded individuals, early in the career, will be future leaders,” said Stanton. “Individuals from past years are already moving to the position of executives and heads of procurement, they’ve demonstrated an understanding of business acumen, innovation, globalization and technology. That makes them successful leaders. Increasingly, the path up to CEO is filled with people from this profession.”
“It was hard to pick the first among equals,” Uphoff said. “We are hoping to generate increased awareness and interest in the profession. The time has come for supply chain to become a strategic imperative.” Winners receive as a prize a one-year membership in ISM and complimentary admittance to ISM’s Annual Conference, ISM2018 in Nashville May 6 to 9.
Click on the image of the 30 Under 30 logo below to start a slideshow on EPSNews’ sister site EBNonline to meet the winners and read about some of their accomplishments.
9 Under 30 Supply Chain Pros Saving Millions for High-Tech Employees
