Learning Supply Chain Management in Alaska

As products and services are transferred from the supplier to the buyer, they move through what is known as the supply chain. This process begins when the items or services are designed and ends when they reach their intended buyers. Logisticians oversee this process and work to use both time and money as efficiently as possible to deliver purchases to consumers.

Logisticians must typically have a bachelor’s degree to secure an entry-level job. While some employers will hire individuals with associate’s degrees or equivalent work experience, many jobs in this complex field require the skills and knowledge conferred by a four-year degree. A master’s degree is generally not required, though it can help people advance their careers and reach higher salary levels. Pursuing a degree in business, operations management or supply chain management will prepare you for a job as a logistician. The following programs are available for students in Alaska.

Four-Year Degree Programs in Alaska

Having a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject will make you a more competitive job applicant. Students in Alaska can consider these programs for their degrees:

  • University of Alaska, Anchorage. The University of Alaska in Anchorage offers both four-year and two-year degree programs in logistics, materials and supply chain management. The institutions small program sizes allow for individualized attention for students.
  • Alaska Pacific University. At this school, students can select a four-year or two-year degree program in General Business Administration and Management, which will prepare them for a supply chain management role.

Continuing Education in Alaska

While a master’s degree is not necessary to begin working in supply chain management, holding this degree can improve your job opportunities as you progress in your career. The following schools in Alaska offer relevant master’s degree programs:

  • University of Alaska, Anchorage. In addition to its bachelor’s degree program, the University of Alaska in Anchorage offers a master’s degree in Global Supply Chain Management. Applicants with three years of work experience in the field are not required to submit test scores with their application.
  • Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Embry-Riddle offers a master’s degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management that prepares students for various optional certifications in addition to working in the logistics field.

Other Schooling Options

For logisticians who would like to continue their education, the American Production and Inventory Control Society offers several certificate programs of its own. These include Certified Supply Chain Professional, Certified in Production Inventory Management, and Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution programs.

Employment and Salary Expectations

The job market for logisticians in Alaska is projected to remain relatively stable. In the 10 years from 2016 to 2026, the Projections Managing Partnership estimates growth of 2.6 percent in the field.

Logisticians in Alaska make an average salary of $87,670 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Holding a master’s degree or additional certifications may result in higher salaries.

Working in Supply Chain Management in Alaska

Supply chain management jobs are available in many industries, including manufacturing, government, retail businesses, trade and scientific and technical services. Logisticians can work for logistical companies themselves or as part of an in-house team for a particular business. They typically work 40-hour weeks, and overtime and travel may be required depending on their employer’s needs.

Communication, customer service and critical thinking skills are necessary, as logisticians will be working with a range of stakeholders to quickly solve problems. While work is available throughout the state of Alaska, cities like Juneau and Anchorage will likely have the most jobs available and offer the highest salaries to match the cost of city living.

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