This past April, Miami University’s Supply Chain Management Association (SCMA) traveled to Chicago for a hands-on learning experience focused on exploring the supply chain industry beyond the classroom. Sixteen supply chain students and Professor Tom Farnbacher participated in company visits, alumni networking, and group learning that helped connect course concepts to real-world operations.

Learning at DHL Innovation Center

One of the most impactful stops was the DHL Innovation Center, where students explored how technology is transforming logistics and warehouse operations. . Members participated in a truck driving simulation that offered a firsthand look at the challenges of transporting goods safely and efficiently.

“It was a valuable experience to use the simulator and see what driving an 18-wheeler is really like,” said Cooper LeMaster. “It showed just how difficult it is to safely maneuver a truck.”

Students also tested assistive technologies designed to improve warehouse safety and ergonomics, including powered support systems and weighted resistance tools that reinforce safe lifting techniques.

“It was shocking how effective the device was at reinforcing safe lifting habits,” said Nathan Rudy. “You can immediately see how technology like this could help reduce workplace injuries.”

Alongside these demonstrations, students observed how automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, and sustainability initiatives are being integrated into modern warehouse environments.

“My favorite part of the tour was seeing how DHL is using AI and new technology to make operations more efficient while also prioritizing sustainability,” shared Sydney Soler.

For many students, the experience shifted their perspective on automation and the future of work.

“Instead of replacing people, these innovations have the potential to improve jobs and make work safer, easier, and more sustainable,” said Lauren Kuss.

Others were inspired by the scale of innovation taking place throughout the facility.

“Being able to see the level of innovation behind both their services and technology was beyond inspiring,” said Ben Jubach.

SCMA extends a special thank you to the DHL Innovation Center team, particularly Mario Ramirez and Benjamin Dippolito, for hosting the group and sharing insights into the future of robotics, AI, and sustainable supply chain operations.

Mission Produce® and Agricultural Supply Chains

At Mission Produce®, students learned how avocados and mangos move through complex global supply chains with extremely tight shelf-life constraints. The visit highlighted the importance of timing, forecasting, inventory management, and coordination in delivering fresh products from farms to consumers.

Students gained insight into how ripening facilities, inventory timing, and global logistics work together to meet consumer demand.

“My favorite part was learning how complex it is to get an avocado to your plate,” said Gavin Panitz. “There are so many variables and considerations you don’t realize.”

Mandy Sackett shared, “My favorite part of the trip was seeing how dynamic a career in supply chain can be. It was fascinating to learn how Fresh Produce developed a way to ripen their products to meet consumer demand while solving logistical challenges.”

Owen Shriver added that it was especially interesting “how they manage the inbound and outbound of their products with a short timeline to hold the inventory.”

Thank you to Mission Produce® and Frank Briseño for taking the time to meet with us and share valuable perspectives on operations, leadership, and the farm-to-fork supply chain.

Alumni Connection and Career Insight

In addition to company visits, students had the opportunity to connect with Miami alum Amy Augustine over dinner. She shared her career journey and offered advice on navigating early career decisions in supply chain and beyond.

Hearing her perspective highlighted how many different paths a career in supply chain can take, and how valuable it is to learn from others’ experiences along the way.

Takeaways from the Trip

Beyond the company visits, the trip gave students time to learn from each other and strengthen relationships within SCMA. The combination of company exposure and peer connection made the experience especially meaningful.

“It’s totally worth your while,” said Ian Mason.  You get to network with current supply chain students and high-level business leaders and see a lot of class concepts applied in real life.”

For many students, the experience helped bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world supply chain operations, while also reinforcing their excitement about the field.

A special thank you to Professor Tom Farnbacher and the Center for Supply Chain Excellence at Miami University for making opportunities like this possible. Chicago was a trip to remember, and students are excited to carry these experiences forward into their future careers.