Challey Spotlight: Alfredo Roa-Henriquez
Challey Scholar
Alfredo Roa-Henriquez is a scholar for the Challey Institute for Global Innovation and Growth and an assistant professor of logistics in the Department of Transportation, Logistics, and Finance at North Dakota State University. His research interests include the resilience of businesses and supply chains, organizational economics, and the intersection of behavioral economics and supply chain management. He also studies business government interactions, regulation and deregulation, and business ethics and sustainability.
Alfredo, please tell us about your role at NDSU.
I hold the position of Assistant Professor within the Department of Transportation, Logistics, and Finance at NDSU. During my time at the university, I have had the privilege of instructing courses within both the undergraduate major of Supply Chain Management and the doctoral program of Transportation and Supply Chain. The courses that I have taught include Integrated Supply Chain Management, Global Supply Chain Management, Seminar in Supply Chain Research, and, in the upcoming semester, a course focused on Supply Chain Finance.
In these instructional roles, my foremost objectives have been to ensure that my students acquire a comprehensive grasp of the fundamental concepts, principles, and best practices within the realm of supply chain management. My pedagogical approach places particular emphasis on the cultivation of practical skills that are directly applicable to real-world supply chain scenarios. These skills encompass various facets of the field, including logistics, supply chain resilience, and demand forecasting, among others.
Recognizing that the supply chain management domain is subject to constant transformation driven by technological advancements, globalization, and shifting market dynamics, I am deeply committed to preparing our students for thriving careers within this dynamic landscape. It is my aspiration to equip our students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their chosen profession, ensuring they are well-prepared and highly competitive within the job market.
How do you bring your lessons to life for your students?
I try to make lessons engaging and relevant for my students by emphasizing the practical application of concepts. This includes connecting the subject matter to current events, industry trends, and real-world examples. I also foster an interactive classroom environment as a second pivotal approach. This involves dynamic class discussions and case studies. These interactive elements are instrumental in encouraging students to actively participate in the learning process and develop their critical thinking skills.
A third strategy involves providing students with direct exposure to industry insights. This includes touring manufacturing plants and warehouses, where students have had the opportunity to hear firsthand from supply chain managers about their experiences and insights. These interactions bridge the gap between theory and practice, enriching students’ understanding of the subject matter. Lastly, I maintain an open feedback loop with my students. I actively seek their input and insights to gauge their comprehension and adapt my teaching methods accordingly.
What inspired you to become a Challey Faculty Scholar?
I was inspired to become a Challey Faculty Scholar by a deep-seated passion for advancing understanding and effecting positive change in critical areas that are central to societal progress. The Challey Institute's commitment to exploring innovation, trade, institutions, and human potential resonated strongly with my own academic and professional pursuits.
Innovation has the power to transform industries, drive economic growth, and enhance the quality of life for people around the world. Trade, as a fundamental driver of globalization and economic development, has always fascinated me. It plays a pivotal role in shaping the prosperity and interconnectedness of nations and global supply chains. Institutions are the bedrock of any society, and I am deeply interested in their role in shaping economic, political, and social systems. Investigating how institutions function and their influence on human behavior is crucial for identifying policies that can lead to more equitable and effective governance. Lastly, I believe that unlocking human potential through education, opportunity, and empowerment is key to addressing many global challenges.
The Challey Institute's mission to identify policies and solutions for the betterment of society perfectly aligns with my own aspirations to contribute meaningful research and insights that can drive positive societal impact. The opportunity to collaborate with a community of scholars who share these values and the chance to make a tangible difference is what inspired me to become a Challey Faculty Scholar.
How has philanthropy supported your work?
Philanthropy has been instrumental in supporting and advancing my work. First and foremost, philanthropic contributions have provided essential funding for my research initiatives and projects. I would say that philanthropy has played a pivotal role in advancing my work by providing essential financial resources, fostering collaboration, and facilitating the dissemination of knowledge. This support has been invaluable in realizing the goals and impact of my research and initiatives.