With the transformation of supply chains through digital means, the requirement for computer science skills is growing exponentially. Young graduates are helping redesign the world’s flow of goods through data, software and automation.

The supply chain has been dramatically different in the last decade. Once a relatively physical, logistics-driven business, today’s is a high-speed, internet-connected ecosystem.

With the force of AI, cloud infrastructure and real-time analytics behind this transformation, the work of computer scientists is more essential than ever. This transformation is creating new avenues for tech graduates.

The graduates of an online computer science degree are now entering fields that used to belong to logistics specialists, connecting two worlds: the physical movement of goods and the digital infrastructure that keeps them in motion.

The Digital Transformation of the Supply Chain

The modern-day IT logistics is not so much about the physical movement of goods. It is all about information—in the capture, processing and use of the same to make better, faster business choices. Sensors, GPS and Internet of Things devices feed logistics platforms with real-time data. The data is then calculated in real time to track shipments, predict traffic, optimise routes and keep stocks.

Software is now as critical as trucks and cargo ships in this new environment. Supply chains use digital software for coordination, risk and performance management. The change has also heightened the demand for specialists who understand how to develop, maintain and improve such software, more so those with coding and system architecture expertise.

Where Computer Science Fits In

So, where do graduates of computer science fit in here? The short answer: almost everywhere.

Software developers and engineers are building the systems that keep supply chains running including every step of the process. Back-end software developers build scalable systems to handle the flow of information. Front-end software developers build user-friendly dashboards for the individuals responsible for the supply chain. Systems engineers build uptime and security for large global networks.

Most of these professionals entered the workforce through an online computer science degree, combining flexible study with in-demand technical skills. With their skills in working remotely, fast iteration and being able to adapt to digital workflows, they are a natural fit for the fast-paced logistics business.

Automation, Artificial Intelligence, and Analytics

Among the most notable of the supply chain transformations is the integration and automation of artificial intelligence. The two are now used for the forecasting of demands, elimination of errors and the allocation of resources.

Computer science majors with machine learning, data science and automation scripting are especially well-prepared here. They can create models that predict points of requirement for stock, develop algorithms that detect anomalies in shipping lanes or automate robotic systems in warehouses.

Analytics, too, is important. Companies would like to know how efficient their supply chains are and where the chokepoints are. There need to be people knowledgeable about databases, data visualization and reporting programs; shared ground of most computer science majors.

Looking at Cybersecurity

The more digital the supply chain, the more exposed it is. Cyberattacks on logistics grids can bring enormous disruptions. Ransomware threats to freight carriers or ports have already illustrated the cost of weak digital security.

This has created a massive need for cybersecurity specialists experienced in both the IT infrastructure and the peculiar vulnerabilities of supply chain configurations. Ranging from the protection of internet of things devices to encryption of the data transfers within overseas suppliers, the job requires a deep understanding of safe coding, network security and threat modeling.

Computer science majors, especially those in cybersecurity, are being recruited in larger numbers to safeguard such critical systems. They’re not defending the abstract IT department building; they’re defending the food, medicine and supplies being delivered.

Closing the Talent Gap through Computer Science Education

In spite of the increased demand, most of the supply chain organizations are short of skilled tech people. The sector’s fast digitalization surpassed its talent pipeline. The employers are now not only in need of logistics managers, but they also need software engineers, cloud experts and data analysts.

Online schooling is filling that gap. It puts computer science in the reach of students and working professionals everywhere and that’s injecting new talent into the supply chain space. The students of these degree programs have real-world experience in digital environments, alongside technical expertise; two of the very things the logistics sector so sorely lacks.

Organisations are also rethinking the way they recruit. They’re not only taking people on with a typical engineering degree but also people with coding bootcamp, online learning or mixed learning. The most important thing is being able to solve problems algorithmically, build for scalability and staying abreast of the latest tech.

The Role of CS Majors in the Future of Logistics

The difference between logistics and tech will dissolve in the near term. In the near future, you will see even more independent, predictive and integrated supply chains than had today. This will only augment the need for people who are fluent in the language that systems communicate and how to make them better.