Key Takeaways:
- In recent years, the supply chain has undergone a vast transformation, which was hastened by the pandemic and other issues.
- To meet future challenges, the supply chain workforce must adapt to remain competitive.
- New technology advancements, particularly the rise of automation, requires a workforce with new skills that include programming, robotics, and engineering.
- Other technology advancements beyond automation include blockchain technology and artificial intelligence.
- The next generation of supply chain worker must have technical and analytical skills as well as the ability to pivot and evolve.
- But just as people must adapt to the future of work in the supply chain, so must companies by investing in training programs and cultivating a culture of innovation and curiosity.
Over the past decade, the national and global supply chain have undergone an unprecedented period of transformation — hastened by the recent pandemic, which accelerated several years’ worth of technological advancements within only a matter of months. As we look toward an increasingly globalized future that prioritizes increased automation, enhanced sustainability, and meeting the evolving expectations of a rising number of consumers, it is evident that the supply chain workforce must adapt to remain both competitive and relevant.
The Rise of Supply Chain Automation
Among the most significant trends shaping the future of the supply chain workforce is the meteoric rise of supply chain automation. New technologies, including robots, drones, autonomous vehicles, and artificial intelligence, have become increasingly sophisticated. Tools that were once affordable only to the largest and most profitable enterprises have also become more accessible to other players within the supply chain arena, and these have made it possible to automate a wider range of tasks and ultimately get products manufactured, sorted, and shipped more quickly and inexpensively than ever before.
While many workers have understandably raised concerns about the threat of automation and artificial intelligence to jobs, the automation trend has introduced a growing demand for workers with skills in areas such as technology, equipment maintenance, and data analysis. In many cases, workers that previously held other roles within the supply chain have found opportunities to up-level their skills, taking on positions in areas such as programming, robotics, safety, and electrical engineering.
Beyond automation, other technological advancements are also shaping the future of the supply chain. The Internet of Things (IoT) is enabling efficient real-time visibility into supply chain operations, enabling enterprises to identify and address issues more rapidly than ever before. Blockchain technology is helping supply chain managers track products and transactions throughout the supply chain more securely and transparently. And supply chain-focused artificial intelligence is optimizing everything from route planning to how warehouses and fulfillment centers are organized.

A New Breed of Supply Chain Worker
At warehouses, depots, and logistics centers throughout the supply chain, there is a growing need for human workers with the skillsets necessary to manage a more complex and interconnected supply chain. These include:
- Technical skills in areas that include artificial intelligence, automation programming and maintenance, engineering, and data analysis.
- Analytical skills, including the ability to analyze and interpret data provided by automated systems to identify trends and inform decision-making.
- Training skills to help ensure that in environments populated by autonomous guided vehicles and potentially dangerous robotic equipment, pedestrians and other human workers remain vigilant and safe.
- Problem-solving skills in what are often complex and fast-paced environments, in which the more mundane and tedious manual tasks are now handled by sophisticated machines.
And perhaps most importantly, the supply chain worker of tomorrow must have the ability to quickly pivot and evolve within a constantly changing world, learning new skills and becoming adept at emerging technologies and work processes as old ones become redundant and obsolete.
Other Important Considerations
Beyond these essential core skills, a variety of other trends are shaping the future of work in the supply chain and must also be taken into consideration. For example:
- The importance of ethical sourcing and environmental sustainability: Consumers, regulators, and major companies working with outside suppliers have all made it clear that the demand for more sustainable and ethical practices within the supply chain is not a passing fad. The new generation of supply chain professionals must increasingly learn how to navigate complex sustainability regulations, ensure strong and lasting compliance with ethical standards, and implement sustainable practices across their supply chain operations. Here at iGPS, both we and our customers are doing our part by hastening the adoption of lightweight, durable, and recyclable plastic pallets — which are cleaner, safer for both workers and products, and produce less greenhouse emissions during shipping.
- The increasing need for supply chain resilience: In recent months and years, disruptions caused by pandemics, major storms and other natural disasters, and armed conflicts have highlighted the importance of creating resilient supply chains that can withstand unexpected turmoil. The future of work in the supply chain requires a pool of professionals that are skilled at risk management, crisis and contingency planning, and building diverse supply networks with multiple layers of redundancy.
- The growing focus on a top-quality customer experience: The supply chain can’t go backward; consumers will continue to demand faster delivery times, more customer-friendly experiences, and greater transparency into the movement of their purchases. The supply chain professionals of today and tomorrow must implement omnichannel strategies and improved transparency into product sourcing, production, and transportation — right up until the last mile.
Of course, it isn’t only workers that must adapt to the constant evolution of the supply chain; companies must do the same. Enterprises should continue to invest not only in new technologies but also in training and development programs that focus on helping workers acquire the skills necessary to survive and thrive in the digital age. Companies must also cultivate a culture of innovation and continuous learning, so that their workers remain curious and creative, constantly experimenting and staying one step ahead of the curve. Lastly, by prioritizing flexibility, enterprises can identify new and better ways to attract and retain talent.
By taking a truly human-centric approach, these organizations will ensure that their workforce is well prepared to confront the numerous challenges and countless opportunities that await the supply chain in the years and decades ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is supply chain management a good career for the future?
As global trade and economic interdependence continue to grow, the demand for skilled supply chain professionals is expected to rise. This field offers diverse opportunities, from logistics and procurement to inventory management and risk mitigation. With the increasing focus on sustainability and efficiency, supply chain managers play a crucial role in optimizing operations and ensuring the smooth flow of goods and services.
What is the future of supply chain jobs?
The future of supply chain careers looks promising. As global trade and economic interdependence continue to grow, the demand for skilled supply chain professionals will likely increase. Automation and technology will reshape the industry, but human expertise will remain essential for strategic decision-making, problem-solving, and building relationships. Supply chain professionals can expect a dynamic and rewarding career path, with opportunities for growth and innovation.
What is the future outlook for the supply chain?
The future of supply chain management is marked by exciting trends and challenges. Advancements in technology, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and automation, are transforming the industry. Sustainability and ethical sourcing are becoming increasingly important, driving a shift towards more responsible practices. Supply chain disruptions, like those experienced during the pandemic, have emphasized the need for resilience and adaptability. Overall, the future of supply chain management promises to be dynamic and demanding, requiring professionals to stay informed and innovative.
Manufacturers embracing the future of work in the supply chain choose iGPS plastic pallets. iGPS pallets are lighter, more automation-friendly, and contribute to improved sustainability. For more information, contact us at 1-800-884-0225, email a specialist at switch@igps.net, or visit our contact page.