Curriculum Development

The COMPLETE project builds upon the success of a current NSF ATE project, Building an Academic Pathway for Industrial Engineering Operations Technicians in Supply Chain (award ID: 1400452), to develop a career pathway for logistics engineering technicians (LET). The pathway will integrate technology applications (e.g. programming, data mining, and simulation modeling) with engineering systems (e.g. automation systems, controls logic, stochastic processes, 3-D/CAD modeling, and electro-mechanical and industrial engineering), and with supply-chain operations.

The curriculum developed by Columbus State Community College for this award will be adapted and adopted at Sinclair College and Oakton Community College, based on employer needs in their respective areas.

In addition to the LET foundational content mentioned above, a curriculum expansion will integrate two technology-based topics as new adaptations: (1) data-driven analytics and (2) networking and network systems into existing supply chain/logistics technician education programs.

The need for information technology-based content reflects the changing landscape of the logistics industry. Based on findings from Frost & Sullivan’s Future of Logistics analysis, Forbes predicts that autonomous fleets (both in warehouse vehicles and on the road), use of big data to optimize operations, crowd sharing, and e-brokerage will become critical features of successful logistics companies of the future. It is imperative to develop content on information technology applications for the logistics industry into the current LET program. Columbus State will lead this deliverable.

Year 1: Columbus State will develop the two new course adaptations with a focus on data analytics and networking. Oakton and Sinclair colleges will review the LET curriculum, and map the content to the needs each has for businesses in their regions to ensure alignment.

Year 2: Columbus State will pilot the two adapted courses into the existing Columbus LET curriculum and will support the replicating partners in planning and design. Oakton and Sinclair will finalize the design and perform needed adjustments for courses that were identified in Year 1.

Year 3: Columbus State will implement and evaluate the effectiveness of the two new adapted courses and make adjustments where needed. Oakton and Sinclair will launch their pilot programs with Columbus State’s continued support.