Joining Scott Luton and special guest host Will Chu in today’s episode of Supply Chain Now are two supply chain supremos in the form of Patrick Leblond, Director of Supply Chain Systems and Process Optimization at GAF, and his colleague Derek Heer, Supply Chain Systems & Process Optimization Manager. GAF is North America’s largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer, with over 4,000 employees and 35 manufacturing operations spread across 27 locations in the US. Due to this formidable footprint, its supply chain is extremely multifaceted and nuanced, and it is Patrick and Derek’s job to ensure operations run as smoothly and efficiently as possible. This involves careful management and curation of a technology stack made up of different systems and software that sings in harmony. For example, a major priority for them right now is warehouse optimization, a multi-year project which involves the modernization of a legacy WMS platform. Patrick and Derek also spend a lot of time collaborating with and providing their own frontline insight to Will, who is the CEO and Co-founder of Vector, a yard management platform designed to increase visibility for supply chain personnel and their partners. Throughout the discussion, the trio touch on their working relationship…

In this new episode of Veteran Voices, host Mary Kate Saliva welcomes Marine Corps veteran Ryan Pavel to the show. Listen in as Pavel shares his journey from an apathetic high schooler to a dedicated serviceman and advocate for veterans. Pavel discusses the importance of understanding different perspectives, the value of thinking critically about one’s service and identity, and the work he does with the Warrior-Scholar Project, a national nonprofit that prepares enlisted service members for higher education.