In the supply chain industry, success is dependent upon a myriad of interconnected factors, such as resources, collaboration, communication, dependability and knowledge.
In a field of such stature, it’s critical to have a community around you working together to reach your goals.
This is why Anh Man, class of 2026, leads the Supply Chain Association student professional organization (SPO) with such intention.
A student led organization at Temple University’s Fox School of Business, the Supply Chain Association provides education, resources and a like-minded community to those aspiring for a career within the supply chain or logistics industries.
Man’s leadership is guided by the mission to ensure members have the extracurricular skills, experiences and connections to thrive within the industry upon their graduation.
“The supply chain industry can be a very difficult one to break into professionally,” Man explains.
“Success isn’t just about landing an internship or job—it’s about building the skills and confidence to get you there. It is about learning and helping each other to one day achieve career success.
“That is what we strive to offer through our association.”
Born and raised in Vietnam, Man is a marketing and supply chain management double-major who joined the SPO in her first year on campus. After completing an internship with a third-party logitics company, her interest within supply chain peaked and motivated her to get more involved in the group.
She joined the SPO’s e-board as its alumni coordinator in her sophomore year, transitioned to vice president her junior year, and is now the group’s president as a senior.
Her presidency has signaled significant growth for herself—she’s proud of the leadership she provides. Man explains that three primary pillars of their SPO experience are scholarships, real-world experiences and mentorship.
“Through our group’s long-standing reputation and partnerships with trade associations, we often receive early notice of upcoming scholarships and relay that information to our members,” Man said.
“We offer our students real-world, hands-on experiences through company visits and projects that include comparable industry roles such as outreach, budgeting, marketing and sourcing.”
Mentorship, though, might be their most impressive pillar, and, as Man explained, benefits students in the most impactful ways. Offering both external (with alumni members of the group) and internal (peer-to-peer) mentorship, students receive help with resume building, career guidance, and even in several instances, securing an internship or job through their formed connections.
While this kind of mentorship is a perk, the entire association seemingly has strong industry inroads together. The group hosts “business visit” outings to tour a major company’s operations and distribution centers.
The experience offers members a firsthand look at a company’s manufacturing processes and implemented technologies. It is also a chance for students to connect with the company’s supply chain experts. Past outings have included visits to companies like Walmart, Aramark, Estée Lauder and Wawa.
Man has ensured that the group’s relationship with industry partners hasn’t stopped there. The organization is proud to be hosting an inaugural student-run, full day Global Supply Chain Conference this spring. The conference will center on the theme of risk mitigation and agility amongst global disruptions.
The conference serves as another strong example of how the group offers its members industry-preparedness.
“I am thrilled that we have established a position to strongly utilize the professional relationships we have built with our external partners to benefit our members,” Man said.
“Whether it’s events like a symposium where we feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, networking sessions and employer meet and greets, it’s now been established that students can now turn to us for industry connections and key education into how major organizations manage uncertainty and apply adaptive strategies.”
The community around the SPO (or student group) has taken notice of its impact.
“The Supply Chain Association continues to be one of the most dynamic and engaged student organizations in our field,” said Misty Blessley, Fox associate professor of instruction and faculty advisor of the group.
“The chapter brings together supply chain majors and industry professionals from across the region, creating a community that opens doors and launches careers.
“Our graduates can be found in impactful roles throughout the industry, in companies such as Boeing, Merck and Northrop Gruman, which is a testament to the opportunities and professional development this organization provides. It has been my privilege to oversee the group and to watch it grow into the respected, influential association it is today.”
Beyond graduation, Man will begin her full-time role as an operations analyst for Tucker Company Worldwide in Haddonfield, NJ. As she enjoys her final semester as leader of the chapter, sheknows her hard work will leave an impact on the group.
“I’m very proud to be president of our association and of the community we have built within our group,” Man said.
“In my time within the group, I feel that we’ve placed a foundation for students to succeed professionally by providing them with tools and opportunities to do so. This concept— empowering our members on their journey to success with resources and connection— directly aligns with Fox’s vision of empowering our students, and we’re lucky to be a part of that mission.”