Publisher's Synopsis
LOGISTICS IS A TERM USED IN BUSINESS to describe the process of getting goods, supplies, equipment, and people where they need to be, when they need to be there. It is a specialized field that involves warehousing, inventory control, distribution, and transportation. Logistics is an often overlooked field that most people do not usually think of when considering a future career. However, it plays a huge role in our economy and our everyday lives. American businesses currently spend more than $1.5 trillion on logistics each year. That gives some indication of how important logistics is to business. It also has a major impact on nearly everyone's daily lives. Without logistics we would not have hospitals, schools, electronics, mail, phones, sporting events, or TV. There would not be any food in the refrigerator either - unless you grew it yourself in your backyard.Logistics managers are in charge of coordinating an organization's supply chain. It is a complex job that requires numerous steps. Using specialized computer software, they determine what and how many items are needed, how they will be acquired, how many will be stored in inventory, how they will be distributed, and what method of transportation will be used for delivery. Throughout the process, it is the logistics manager's responsibility to make sure it all goes smoothly. That often means thinking outside the box and brainstorming with team members to solve problems that are costing time and money. The goal is always to find the fastest, cheapest, and safest way to get things from point A to point B. Logistics managers fill vital roles in organizations of all types and sizes. They work in nearly every industry and many government agencies. Nonprofit organizations, especially those involved in disaster relief, also depend on them to distribute lifesaving supplies to hot spots around the globe. The military also relies heavily on good logistics. In fact, the armed forces are where many logistics managers obtain their skills. The number of jobs for logistics managers is growing, while employers often have trouble attracting new candidates. On any given day, there are thousands of job openings. The problem is not lack of rewards - the average pay for an experienced logistics manager is $100,000, not counting bonuses and other perks. It is because most people do not know about the excellent opportunities that await qualified candidates. How can you make yourself qualified? The surest way is to study logistics in college. Most employers want to see a bachelor's degree, but even a two-year associate degree or technical certificate is enough to get started. Employers also want to see motivation. An enthusiastic candidate with drive and leadership skills will always capture the attention of employersDo you love big trucks, trains, ships, and planes? Are you a people person who enjoys the camaraderie of working closely within a team? Logistics managers are in demand and people from all kinds of backgrounds are welcome to start in basic roles and work their way up. If you can multitask, handle responsibilities, and deal with pressure, you could have a secure future working in a comfortable office, or traveling the world doing exciting and challenging work.
