Learning Supply Chain Management in Hawaii

In the supply chain process, products and services move from the supplier to the buyer. The process begins at the design stage and ends when the final result is delivered to the end user. To ensure that each item reaches its destination, logisticians must work to monitor the product’s life cycle, use time well and save money wherever possible.

Most entry-level logisticians have a bachelor’s degree, though some employers may hire those with an associate’s degree or relevant job experience. However, because these jobs typically require specialized skills, a four-year degree is preferred. Some employers may provide educational assistance for applicants who are in the process of completing their degrees. While a master’s degree is not required, having one can offer better career advancement opportunities. Most logisticians have degrees in business, operations management or supply chain management. The following information provides and overview of educational programs available for aspiring logisticians in Hawaii.

Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Hawaii

In most cases, employers prefer to higher applicants with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. You can consider the following schools in Hawaii for your studies:

  • Hawai’i Pacific University. Hawaii Pacific University offers several relevant concentrations within its business administration major, including business management. Courses include business finance, information systems, business policy and various electives that can be tailored to students’ interests.
  • Brigham Young University. BYU’s Hawaii campus offers a bachelor’s degree in Operations & Supply Chain. Students will learn how to source, import and export products, design efficient and effective processes, and manage projects according to budget and deadline.
  • Chaminade University of Honolulu. Chaminade’s business program includes business management and administration degrees, which can be taken at its Honolulu campus or online. Students may also select a minor in communications, accounting or business administration, among others, to complement their main academic pursuits.

Master’s Degree Options

For those looking to continue their education or gain new job opportunities, the following master’s degree programs are available in the state. Note that a master’s is not required for entry-level positions.

  • University of Hawaii at Manoa. The University of Hawaii’s Global MBA program prepares students to take on business decisions on a worldwide scale. It’s offered in full-time, part-time and online programs and lasts between 21 and 36 months, depending on students’ preferred time commitment and ability to attend classes on campus.
  • Hawai’i Pacific University. Hawai’i Pacific offers a wide range of MBA concentrations, including information systems, management and international business, among others. Students who have completed a bachelor’s degree in business may be able to complete this master’s program within 18 months, though a one-year degree program is also available.
  • Chaminade University of Honolulu. Chaminade offers one of the most affordable MBA programs in Hawaii. Its concentrations include island business, science and technology innovation and not-for-profit business in addition to a general MBA that provides students with a more general, foundational understanding of business. Students in each program can select a range of electives that match their interest, including project management and conflict resolution.

Additional Educational Options

Various community colleges and technical schools in Hawaii offer two-year degree programs in fields relevant to supply chain management and logistics. Kaua’i Community College runs associate’s degree programs in general business and business management, which can help students complete the prerequisites required to transfer to a four-year university if they choose.

Logisticians at all levels can receive certifications that demonstrate advanced knowledge in the field. These include the Certified Supply Chain Professional, Certified in Production Inventory Management and Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution certifications from the American Production and Inventory Control Society.

Employment and Salary Outlook

Jobs for logisticians in Hawaii are expected to grow by 4 percent in the 10 years to 2026, according to the Projections Managing Partnership. This represents slower growth than the national average of 7 percent during the same time period.

The average hourly salary for a logistician in Hawaii is $40.17, which translates to an average annual salary of $83,560, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The highest salaries for logisticians in the state can average $115,000 or more.

Working in Supply Chain Management in Hawaii

Logisticians are in demand across multiple industries, such as manufacturing, government, company management, scientific services, technical services and wholesale trade. They can work for companies that specialize in logistics or as part of an in-house team at a particular company. Schedules typically consist of 40-hour workweeks, with overtime and travel sometimes required.

Successful logisticians have strong communication, critical thinking and customer service abilities. They must work with both suppliers and customers and solve problems in a fast, effective manner. Jobs are available throughout the state, though larger cities such as Honolulu offer the highest salaries to compensate for the higher cost of living in an urban area.

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