NDSU student finds her path in supply chain management

Success for NDSU senior Elena George is built on connection, and linking ideas, people and processes across a global network.

As a marketing and supply chain management major in the College of Business, George has learned how both disciplines work together to help businesses deliver value from start to finish. Her path at NDSU has combined technical problem-solving with relationship-building, a balance that has prepared her for a fast-moving global economy.

Through her classes, George discovered how supply chain management blends business strategy with logistics, analytics and decision-making. The program’s mix of coursework and projects has given her practical skills that translate directly into the workplace.

“At NDSU, I’ve developed both analytical and interpersonal skills through coursework and hands-on projects,” George said. “My supply chain classes taught me how to forecast demand, manage inventory and understand global sourcing, while my marketing courses strengthened my creativity, communication and strategic thinking.”

Her classroom experiences came to life during an internship at Doosan Bobcat, a company with strong North Dakota roots and global reach. There, she gained firsthand experience in managing supplier relationships and coordinating purchasing systems used around the world. She worked on projects that involved pricing strategy, order fulfillment and supplier communications, all while learning to navigate industry-standard tools like Oracle and SAP.

The internship showed her how every decision in a supply chain affects the people and organizations it serves. She said it gave her a deeper understanding of how data, teamwork and strategic thinking work together to move materials, products and ideas efficiently from one point to another.

“That hands-on experience reinforced what I learned in the classroom and showed me how supply chain strategy operates in a global business,” she said.

George said the lessons she learned at NDSU go beyond technical knowledge. She credits her professors for building a learning environment where curiosity, collaboration and support are constant. Their encouragement and experience helped her connect academic learning to real career paths.

“My professors have been incredibly supportive and hands-on,” she said. “They bring real industry experience into the classroom and have helped me connect what I’m learning to my career goals.”

That focus on student success is intentional, said Fariz Huseynov, professor of finance and chair of the department of transportation, logistics and finance. He said the supply chain management program is designed to combine academic rigor with real-world application, preparing students to thrive in a data-driven, interconnected economy.

“Our Supply Chain Management program helps students master both the art and science of managing modern supply chains,” Huseynov said. “It’s the only STEM-designated major in the College of Business, and it incorporates technology and critical thinking to prepare students for successful careers.”

The program’s growth reflects both industry demand and the university’s commitment to innovation. Courses emphasize leadership, data analytics and sustainability, areas that set up graduates for meaningful careers in logistics, manufacturing, retail and transportation.

Students also benefit from partnerships with regional and national companies that provide internships, projects and career connections.

Huseynov said opportunities in the field are expanding rapidly.

“Supply chain management is the fastest-growing program at NDSU, and that’s no surprise,” he said. “Jobs in this area are expected to grow 17 percent by 2034. Employers want graduates who understand analytics, logistics and procurement, and our students are stepping right into those roles and making an impact.”

NDSU’s emphasis on practical learning has been central to George’s experience. She said her coursework, internship and faculty guidance have shaped her confidence as a professional ready to take on complex challenges. The community she found at NDSU also helped her grow personally, creating a sense of belonging that she believes defines the university.

“NDSU is a special place to learn and grow because it combines strong academics with real-world experience,” she said. “The faculty are approachable and genuinely invested in helping students succeed.”

Huseynov said George’s achievements represent what the program strives to accomplish. Faculty members take pride in seeing students gain confidence, apply their skills and graduate ready to lead.

“Elena is a great example,” he said. “She’s engaged, thoughtful and brings valuable insight to every discussion. She really represents the best of what this program is all about.”

As George prepares to graduate in December, she said she feels ready for what comes next. She plans to pursue a career in logistics or operations management, where she can apply the skills she gained at NDSU to make a real difference in how organizations serve their customers and communities.

“Being part of NDSU’s supply chain management program has been one of the best decisions I’ve made,” she said. “Between internships, community involvement and faculty support, I’ve gained the skills and confidence to take on whatever comes next.”

George said NDSU has been the foundation for her future.

At NDSU, this is the moment that matters, a university where opportunity meets purpose and students prepare to lead on the forefront of innovation.

Schedule a visit or apply today to see how NDSU can help find your passion.