The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers chapter at Kennesaw State University recently earned national recognition as co-winners of the Future Supply Chain Innovators video competition. Composed of Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology students Ricard Aguilar, Lucas Nel, Camden Holsapple, Milana Yemilbekova, and Michael Luhofet, the team stood out in the competitive national field by developing a project focused on strengthening supply chain resilience in the face of disruptions.
Hosted in partnership with the Georgia Logistics Summit, the competition challenges students to create videos that explain major issues and innovations within supply chain and logistics management in a creative and accessible way. Team member Lucas Nel shared that the experience changed his perspective on his future, stating "I have never been in charge of something like this before, and it opened my mind to more possibilities. Having a supportive and motivated team made the experience even more special."
The win marks the second consecutive year Kennesaw State students have earned top honors in the competition, reinforcing the university's emphasis on hands-on learning and industry engagement. Last year, a team led by Lecturer of Industrial and Systems Engineering Parisa Pooyan won the inaugural competition at the Georgia Logistics Summit with a student-produced video focused on supply chain innovation and workforce awareness. The university's offering of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to more than 51,000 students and its Carnegie R2 research institution designation underscore its commitment to academic excellence.
Created in 2009, the Georgia Logistics Summit has grown to become one of the Southeast's most important logistics and supply chain focused events. Hosted by the Georgia Center of Innovation, part of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, the Summit features keynote presentations, panel discussions, and industry updates focused on trends shaping logistics across Georgia and beyond. The competition plays a vital role in nurturing the next generation of supply chain leaders.
Note: This summary draws on SupplyChainBrain's publicly visible headline + subhead + opening paragraph and on sector background on supply chain education and competitions.
Key Takeaways:
1. Kennesaw State University's IISE chapter earned co-winner recognition in the Future Supply Chain Innovators national video competition
2. Five engineering students stood out with a project focused on strengthening supply chain resilience against disruptions
3. This marks the second consecutive year Kennesaw State students have won top honors in the competition
4. The competition is hosted in partnership with the Georgia Logistics Summit, emphasizing industry innovation
5. Kennesaw State holds Carnegie R2 research institution status and serves more than 51,000 students