Resources

We provide a variety of resources for supply chain automation educators, including industry research reports containing compelling data for grant writers under the industry tab, links to industry news and media, information about certifications and career exploration activities, labor-market data, case studies and much more.

Our Resources for Educators page also includes a helpful search tool that allows you to find colleges that offer programs that prepare students for careers as supply chain technicians.

Our resources page continues to grow, so bookmark it and be sure to check back regularly.

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2021 Salary Survey by PRG and Modern Materials Handling – This September 2021 salary survey, by PRG and Modern Materials Handling, was conducted to determine the current salaries and overall compensation for materials handling professionals and to examine materials handling pros’ current job and overall career satisfaction. Specifically, the research examines salary level, as well as bonus plans; number of years with current employer and number of years worked in the field; job stability and job-related pressures/stress; and demographics.

2020 Industry Outlook Report (Logistics Management, Modern Materials Handling) – Check out this report to better understand current market conditions, trends and best practices in manufacturing, warehousing and distribution operations. Track any changes that may have occurred during the last 12 months, as well as over the past few years in materials handling environments.

2019 MHI Annual Industry Report: Elevating Supply Chain Digital Consciousness – In its sixth annual report, the Materials Handling Institute (MHI) examines perspective within the supply chain automation industry, including: the impacts of innovation; technology adoption; the key challenges of workforce and customer demands, and planned investment in new technologies.

National Center for Supply Chain Automation Summary Report: Supply Chain Industries and Occupation in the U.S. – this commissioned examination of supply chain labor market topics outlines key trends around education, job growth, and skills requirements in the supply chain automation sector.

Labor Market Data – Understand the workforce landscape at the national or state level to stay apprised of labor market trends, wages, and growth rates of occupations in the supply chain industry.

How to Obtain Labor Market Information on Supply Chain Technology Industries and Occupations, NCSCA, March 2015 – use this document to guide your own research on trends, occupational predictions, and wage growth rates in supply chain automation.

Supply Chain-Related Certifications, NCSCA, May 2013 – This list of industry-recognized certifications helps companies identify credentials that may be required for new supply-chain jobs.

Certified Automation Technician Skills Standards, MSSC, 2020 – These standards provide the foundation for a Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) certification and instructional program for Certified Automaton Technician (CAT). This industry standards-based certification for this new occupation is based upon a definition of "supply chain technician" developed by the National Center for Supply Chain Technology Education: A person who installs, operates, supports, upgrades or maintains the automated material handling equipment and systems which support the supply chain.

MHI Automation Introduction – Companies that don’t start the automation process are at risk of not delivering on customer expectations and are likely to fall behind. This video highlights the benefits of slowly introducing automated elements into a distribution center.

The Importance of Industry-Based Certifications, NCSCA, 2019 – Provides recommendations for quality standards to be used in developing and evaluating certification programs related to supply chain automation.

NCSCA Webinar Resources Find resources shared by others in the industry during NCSCA webinars to stay on top of the latest trends and developments.

Supply Chain Careers – explore occupational, wage, and education requirements for the jobs available in supply chain automation.

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Video Library – This collection of videos related to supply chain automation, materials handling, and logistics topics introduces students to applied technologies and career information.

Model Program of Study – Understand what classes you need to take by examining a model program of study designed to deliver the skill sets supply chain technicians need to successfully enter the field. This model was developed by NCSCA in collaboration with its Industry Leadership Team.