Lenovo and Bellevue University Partner to Offer Industry-Leading Supply Chain and Logistics Education
In a landmark collaboration designed to address the growing demand for skilled supply chain professionals, Lenovo, a global technology leader, has joined forces with Bellevue University, one of the nation’s premier online universities, to deliver cutting-edge education in supply chain operations and logistics. This partnership aims to equip learners with real-world expertise and advanced skills, leveraging Lenovo’s globally recognized supply chain leadership and Bellevue’s innovative educational framework.
Bridging the Skills Gap in Supply Chain Management
The modern supply chain landscape is increasingly complex, driven by technological advancements, globalization, and the need for sustainability. According to a 2024 McKinsey & Company report, 90% of companies surveyed stated they lack sufficient talent to meet their digitization goals, highlighting a critical shortage of skilled professionals in the field. To address this challenge, Lenovo and Bellevue University are teaming up to develop the next generation of supply chain experts through a unique blend of academic rigor and practical industry insights.
“We believe that bringing real-world Global Supply Chain experience and learning directly into an education curriculum is precisely the optimal way to upskill the workforce of the future,” said Ben Massie, Vice President of Global Supply Chain at Lenovo. “Teaming up with Bellevue allows us to attract the right talent using the right technology and deliver on our mission to make ‘smarter technology for all’ a reality.”
Access to Lenovo’s World-Class Supply Chain Expertise
As a company ranked among the top 10 in Gartner’s Supply Chain Top 25, Lenovo brings unparalleled expertise to the table. With a vast network of over 30 manufacturing sites across nine markets, Lenovo’s supply chain is a cornerstone of its success. Through this partnership, learners will have access to Lenovo’s real-world case studies, proprietary AI solutions, and insights from subject matter experts who have firsthand experience managing one of the most sophisticated supply chains in the world.
“With a network of over 30 manufacturing sites across nine markets, Lenovo’s supply chain is one of our core strengths,” said Massie. “By bringing our real-life case studies and insights into the curriculum, we aim to equip students with the skills to succeed in the complex and dynamic working environment. Partnering with Bellevue University, which has a strong track record of working with organizations, allows us to share our knowledge and together build the supply chain experts of the future.”
Tailored Education for Career Advancement
Bellevue University’s Supply Chain Operations & Project Management Certificate of Completion program is designed to provide learners with sought-after skills through two master’s-level courses: Management of Supply Chain Operations and Advanced Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. These three-credit hour courses can be taken concurrently, enabling participants to complete the certificate in under eight months. The program is ideal for working professionals seeking to upskill or reskill, as well as individuals looking to transition into supply chain roles.
Upon completion of the program, participants will receive:
- Two digital badges to showcase their newly acquired skills.
- A certificate of completion validating their expertise.
- Six graduate-level credit hours transferable toward a master’s degree.
“This program is uniquely positioned to help adult learners and the employers we partner with address the complexities of global supply chains,” said Dr. Rich Lombardo, Executive Director of Bellevue University’s Workforce Skills Academy. “With a deep focus on employee growth planning, we’re able to ensure that the next generation has the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this ever-evolving field.”
Real-World Applications for a Dynamic Industry
Lenovo’s involvement ensures that the curriculum reflects the latest trends and challenges in supply chain management, including:
- Diversification of Manufacturing Operations: Understanding how companies adapt to unpredictable periods by diversifying supply chain resources.
- AI and Automation: Exploring how AI solutions are deployed across supply chain operations to enhance efficiency and decision-making.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Learning how sustainable practices are integrated into supply chain strategies.
- End-to-End Cybersecurity: Addressing the critical role of cybersecurity in protecting supply chain data and operations.
These topics provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of how to navigate the complexities of global supply chains while preparing them to implement innovative solutions in their careers.
Why This Partnership Matters
The collaboration between Lenovo and Bellevue University represents a forward-thinking approach to workforce development. By combining Lenovo’s industry expertise with Bellevue’s flexible, learner-focused education model, this initiative addresses the pressing need for skilled professionals in supply chain management. It also aligns with Lenovo’s broader mission to empower individuals and organizations through smarter technology.
For learners, this program offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on knowledge and credentials that are highly valued in today’s job market. For employers, it provides a pipeline of qualified candidates equipped to tackle the challenges of modern supply chains. As Dr. Lombardo noted, “Working together, we can ensure that the next generation has the skills and knowledge needed to deal with the complexities that are ever-present in global supply chains.”
Preparing for the Future of Supply Chain Leadership
As businesses continue to grapple with disruptions and digitization challenges, the demand for skilled supply chain professionals will only grow. Programs like the one offered by Lenovo and Bellevue University are essential for preparing individuals to lead in this critical field. By blending real-world insights with academic excellence, this partnership sets a new standard for supply chain education.
