‘An edge over the competition’
Logistics students excel at new credential

From left to right, Supply Chain Management students, Paul Weber, Shaun McKinney,
Carl Gentile and Serafino Vaccaro

In today’s economy, you need something to help you stand out. A group of Columbus State Supply Chain Management students just got a new credential to help them do just that.

After 20 years driving a truck, Paul Weber knew he needed a new career so he could spend nights at home with his family. So he entered Columbus State’s Supply Chain Management program.

“At age 47 I decided I needed to go back to school if I was going to get a decent job,” he says. “Now at 48, I am taking the last course I need to get my Supply Chain Management certificate.” He plans on continuing his education and earning his associate degree.

Roberta Smedes found herself back in school for the same reason. “It is very important in today’s marketplace to have an edge over the competition with many applicants and fewer jobs available,” she says.

Both students recently earned a brand-new credential developed by the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council. The council developed exams to earn the Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) certificate and their Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) certificate to prove to prospective employers that students have the skills needed in the supply chain industry.

Weber and Smedes were among the 18 supply chain management students who recently took the exams. And the training they received here enabled them to succeed. Ninety percent of Columbus State’s test takers passed the CLA exam and earned their certificates, and 68 percent also earned the more advanced CLT certificate.

Supply Chain Management student, Paul Weber

Instructor Leon (Bud) Cohan has received further training from the council and has been certified as a CLA/CLT instructor. He plans to integrate this material into his logistics courses at Columbus State.

Logistics is a growth industry in central Ohio, according to the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce, already accounting for around 100,000 jobs. The region has a central location, several major highways, three intermodal yards and a major cargo airport. The only free trade zone in central Ohio is located in Columbus at Rickenbacker Airport.

Weber acknowledges that the credential is in its early stages, but sees potential. “Once it is more widely recognized, I truly do believe it will be a big help. The tests were very challenging in all areas.”

Smedes credits the professors in Columbus State’s Supply Chain Management department for preparing the students for the exam.

“The curriculum at Columbus State prepares the student with the tools necessary to do well on the exam. The courses offered provide actual on-the-job material as well as in-depth detailed information needed in today’s global environment,” she says.

For more information, contact Program Director Lee Blyth at lblyth@cscc.edu or visit the Supply Chain Management page at Columbus State’s website: http://www.cscc.edu/Programs/descriptions/logi.htm .