Nick Darmanchev

Supply chains today are drowning in data but still struggling to answer critical questions. Inventory is visible but not always explainable. Lead times exist in the system, but don’t always reflect reality. Improvement opportunities are identified, yet often fail to translate into action. In this white paper, explore four common challenges that prevent organizations from turning supply chain data into better decisions, and learn where AI can provide real value by improving diagnostics, prioritizing action, and uncovering patterns across complex operations. What You’ll Learn Where AI really improves supply chain outcomes and where it doesn’t How to turn “visible” inventory into something you can actually explain and act on Why many AI initiatives fail and what it takes to drive real impact How to spot hidden inefficiencies in lead times, planning settings, and governance Download the White Paper Discover how leading organizations are moving beyond dashboards to create greater visibility, stronger alignment, and more effective supply chain decisions.

At MODEX 2026 in Atlanta, Scott Luton sat down with Dr. Stephanie Thomas, Associate Professor of Practice at the University of Arkansas and Founder & Executive Director of WISE, for a wide-ranging conversation about supply chain talent, AI, and the future of workforce development. One thing becomes immediately clear from the discussion: while technology may dominate the headlines, the future of supply chain still depends on people. Of course, that makes the ability for organizations to more effectively engage the new generations entering the workforce all that more critical.   The Industry’s Biggest Question Mark: AI and Talent When asked about the biggest priorities facing supply chain leaders today, Thomas doesn’t hesitate: AI is at the top of nearly every conversation. “Everybody’s trying to unpack what is it going to do? How is it going to change things?” she explains. Organizations are wrestling not only with how to adopt emerging technologies, but also with how to prepare their workforce for the transformation ahead. From upskilling current employees to redesigning workflows, the talent implications of AI are massive. At the same time, the broader business environment remains highly dynamic. Geopolitical shifts, ongoing disruption, and rapid technological change are forcing organizations to…