Information technology (IT) is vital in today’s interconnected world. But when most people think of IT, they picture computers and other devices, software, cloud storage, operating systems, and networking. Most do not think of the supply chain. Should you?

In a word, yes. The IT supply chain is critical to our contemporary reliance on emerging technologies. Every step of the IT supply chain relies on information technology—from sourcing raw materials to delivering finished products to consumers. It ensures that businesses function smoothly, regardless of their industries.

As such, skilled professionals are needed for this dynamic field. Do you have what it takes? Below, find out how to build a rewarding career in the IT supply chain.

The IT Supply Chain—What Is It?

Your IT studies may not have covered supply chain issues specifically—they are more commonly a part of logistics, operations, or project management studies. However, understanding what the IT supply chain is, exactly, is the first step to building a career with it.

The IT supply chain is a network of goods and activities that bring tech products and services to life. It often starts with sourcing raw materials used in electronics—metals such as copper, aluminum, palladium, gold, iridium, lithium, nickel, platinum, silver, and tin; silicon dredged from sand; and petroleum-based plastics.

Once mined or acquired, these materials must be moved to manufacturing facilities. Often, parts from multiple manufacturers are assembled at yet another facility. Then the finished products are shipped to retailers before finally reaching consumers. Then, there are returns, replacement parts, and the recycling of spent materials to deal with. Customer service and support must also be considered, especially for cloud-based services that don’t involve a physical product (other than the device it’s used on). All of these steps are a part of the supply chain.

Landing Your IT Supply Chain Job

What skills and training do you need to enter the IT supply chain? Technical skills, interpersonal skills, and business acumen are a must.

Likely, you already have a technical knowledge of IT products including computer hardware, software, and various digital services. Research additional services and applications related directly to the supply chain, and learn how to use them.

You also need supply chain management skills, including logistics, procurement, inventory management, and supply chain principles. Apply data analysis for forecasting. If your business courses didn’t include these topics, consider taking an additional online class.

Certifications in supply chain management can show off your expertise and commitment to the field. Well-recognized certifications include Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Project Management Professional (PMP), and Six Sigma Certification. If you have at least three years of work experience, you can become a Six Sigma Green Belt.

Next, hone your analytical and project management skills. Make sure you can plan and execute projects on time and within budget. Practice with projects at your current job.

Have you considered using ChatGPT for job applications? It is a great way to spice up your resume and cover letter while alleviating some of the tedium of the task. Don’t forget to double-check any AI-inspired edits and tailor your resume to each job you apply for.

Jobs in the IT Supply Chain

Remember that IT supply chain jobs are not limited to the technology sector. Practically every industry relies on information technology tools to function; you can therefore find IT supply chain jobs in almost any field. These include:

• Analytics and data management—supply chain analytics involves using technology and data analysis tools to optimize the supply chain or parts thereof, forecast demand for products and services, and offer insights to decision-makers.
• Customer support—providing technical support, customer training, and maintenance services, with the goal of increasing product/service performance and customer satisfaction.
• Distribution/Logistics—managing distribution channels, warehousing, and transportation. Also monitors and predicts inventory levels and customer demand.
• Operations/Manufacturing—can include quality control and managing the manufacturing and assembly processes.
• Procurement—also called Vendor Management, this path focuses on sourcing materials, negotiating supplier contracts, and “shopping around” for the best prices.
• Project Management—planning, executing, and monitoring of IT projects. These can include software implementations, infrastructure deployments, and system upgrades related to the supply chain.
• Supply chain management—coordinating logistics, overseeing the supply chain process, and promoting efficiency, timely delivery, and cost-effectiveness throughout.

Some of these positions can be highly specialized to achieve a specific goal, for example, increasing sustainable supply chain practices or building resilient supply chains that can help mitigate supply chain disruptions.

Key Takeaways

IT is a vast field with innumerable career opportunities. If you haven’t considered the IT supply chain as a career choice, or if you’re intrigued by the information considered here, take a deeper dive to learn more. Take a class. Ask questions. Find out how the IT supply chain is interlinked with your current field or explore other IT supply chain offerings in different fields.

The future awaits, and you can make it that much smoother by working in the supply chain.