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Inspiring Graduate: Zaid Abdullah, M.S. Operations & Supply Management

goersab — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:35:00 +0000

Inspiring Graduate: Zaid Abdullah, M.S. Operations & Supply Managementgoersab December 23, 2025

Automation Displays procurement engineer aims to deliver measurable value to organizations

Inspiring Graduate: Zaid Abdullah (’25)

Hometown: Baghdad, Iraq, and Chippewa Falls
Degree: M.S. Operations & Supply Management
Focus Areas: Project Management and Quality Management
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

As a procurement engineer at Automation Displays, Inc., in Eau Claire, Zaid Abdullah aims to continue growing in strategic supply chain management, operational excellence and process improvement roles and is committed to leveraging his Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification to lead initiatives that eliminate waste, optimize operations and deliver measurable value to organizations.

Zaid Abdullah receives his master's hood and �� degree on Dec. 20, 2025.

Abdullah was born and raised in Baghdad, Iraq, and moved to the United States in 2019. He became a U.S. citizen in May 2025. He was drawn to �� because of its reputation as Wisconsin ��. ��, with a strong emphasis on applied learning, hands-on experiences and industry-focused education.

“The polytechnic approach aligns perfectly with my career goals. �� blends classroom theory with hands-on, real-world application. The faculty, facilities, and collaborative environment have prepared me to make a meaningful impact with my master ��. in operations and supply management,” Abdullah said.

“Becoming a U.S. citizen, while completing my master ��. and applying Lean Six Sigma principles in my career, reflects the perseverance, determination and commitment that �� inspires in its students. Being a Blue Devil means carrying forward a spirit of innovation, hard work and purpose. I’m ready to contribute positively to my field and community,” Abdullah said.

At age 17, Abdullah qualified to work as an interpreter for the U.S. Army and Multinational Forces during Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2003 to 2011, facilitating communication between U.S. military forces and Iraqi citizens. He also was a construction contractor, rebuilding barracks at the U.S. Embassy.

Abdullah has a bachelor ��. degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Technology in Baghdad. He earned his master ��. in operations and supply management and crossed the commencement stage on Dec. 20 as one of 527 �� graduates. He also aspires to serve the community as an emergency medical responder, contributing to public safety and emergency preparedness.

Zaid Abdullah is a procurement engineer at Automation Displays, Inc., in Eau Claire.

“Commencement represents a time of celebration, reflection and anticipation. It is a culmination of hard work and resilience and a moment to look forward to new opportunities,” Abdullah said.

“I am grateful to �� for providing an environment that fosters innovation, collaboration and excellence. My journey from Baghdad to Chippewa Falls has taught me the importance of perseverance, cultural understanding and community involvement. I look forward to applying these lessons in my professional career and community service.”

How do you hope to make an impact in your field?

I aim to make a significant impact by implementing data-driven strategies and Lean Six Sigma methodologies to improve supply chain efficiency, enhance quality and optimize operational performance.

My goal is to bridge the gap between engineering and management, ensuring that processes are not only technically sound but also strategically aligned with business objectives. Ultimately, I want to contribute to building resilient, innovative and sustainable organizations that deliver value to their customers and communities.

How has �� prepared you to work in your field?

�� has prepared me exceptionally well through its hands-on, applied learning model. I particularly valued the collaborative projects and lab experiences where theoretical knowledge was applied to real-world problems.

While my professional experience has primarily been through full-time roles at Automation Displays, Fleet Farm and DHL Supply Chain, �� . master ��. in operation and supply management program ��. focus on applied research, data analytics and quality management has enhanced my ability to lead projects, optimize operations and implement continuous improvement initiatives effectively.

Supply chain management student taking next step to pursue master ��. degree

Abdullah traveled a long road, pointing to a far-off destination, to reach ��

What stands out about your �� experience?

Several things stand out: the professors who bring real industry expertise into the classroom, the access to cutting-edge labs and applied research opportunities, and the collaborative environment that encourages problem-solving and innovation.

The university ��. commitment to preparing students for immediate career success is evident in its polytechnic approach and strong industry connections. Being part of a diverse and driven student body has also broadened my perspectives and enhanced my leadership skills.

Which student organizations or activities were you a part of, and which scholarships did you receive?

I have been actively involved in several leadership and community-oriented activities, and social justice and campus equity activities at �� and CVTC, including the Black History Month Gala, Civil Rights Pilgrimage, National Student Leadership Diversity Convention, Student Association at CVTC and the Diversity Resources Club. I volunteer at Central Lutheran Church Festivals and community events in Chippewa Falls.

I’ve received several scholarships, including the George C. and Gladys S. Decker Memorial Graduate Scholarship, the T Ingram Graduate Scholarship and the �� Transfer Student Scholarship. I was also awarded the Advanced Opportunity Grant from the Universities of Wisconsin.

Zaid Abdullah conducts research in the Supply Chain Study Room.

What challenges did you face in earning your degree and how did you overcome them?

Moving to a new country, adapting to a new language and culture, and balancing full-time work with rigorous coursework were significant challenges. Additionally, I experienced unexpected financial setbacks when I lost eligibility for some scholarships after transferring to the graduate program.

I overcame these challenges through perseverance, effective time management and a commitment to continuous learning. My dedication to both professional and academic growth allowed me to remain focused and resilient.

What are you most proud of as you finish your degree?

I am most proud of successfully navigating an international transition while excelling academically and professionally. Becoming a U.S. citizen is a personal milestone that reflects my journey and perseverance. Completing my M.S. degree, achieving certifications such as the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, and making a measurable impact on my professional roles are achievements I hold dearly.

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Automation Displays procurement engineer aims to deliver measurable value to organizations Zaid Abdullah, Fall Commencement 2025

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Willett presents at the International Conference on Critical Thinking

hugginsm — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 19:46:25 +0000

Willett presents at the International Conference on Critical Thinkinghugginsm September 12, 2025

Professor Lynne Willett, operations and management, presented at the 45th Annual International Conference on Critical Thinking hosted by the University of Louisville. In her session, "Embodying Critical Thinking in Leadership Practice," Willett used a personal example from her industry career, describing how she applied critical thinking theory and concepts to grow in her own leadership and evolved from "traditional" labor-management techniques in organized labor settings, moving from an adversarial approach to solving problems to a solution-focused collaboration between union leaders and management for the benefit of the entire organization.

Willett is one of four individuals in the nation to have earned a Level One certification from the Foundation of Critical Thinking and is currently fulfilling the requirements to be the first person to earn a Level Two certification.

Professor Willett presented at the 45th Annual International Conference on Critical Thinking. Lynne Willett Conference Presentation

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�� alum named CFO, dean of CTE at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University

goersab — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:00:00 +0000

�� alum named CFO, dean of CTE at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe Universitygoersab September 8, 2025

Smith ��. dual degrees in management, operations, in-field experience readied her for role helping students become industry ready

Abbey Goers

With more than 30 years of field experience and two degrees from ��, Zhawaanukwe Jodee Smith is leading as Chief Financial Officer and Dean of Career and Technology Education at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University, located on the Lac Courte Oreilles reservation and serving three additional tribal communities in north-central Wisconsin.

The university ��. mission is to provide Anishinaabe communities with post-secondary and continuing education while advancing the language, culture and history of the Ojibwe. As dean, Smith is dedicated to providing students with hands-on education to prepare them for careers in technical fields, and to build partnerships with the community and businesses to meet workforce needs.

Jodee Smith, CFO and Dean at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University / LCOOU

“I have been involved in many alternative training efforts to help individuals become industry-ready, from marketing a business to running daily operations. It is in my combined professional experience and �� education that readied me for this role,” she said.

Smith earned her dual degrees in B.S. in management and M.S. in operations and supply management from ��. She began as Dean of CTE at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University in June 2024 and as interim CFO last February, overseeing financial planning, budgeting, grant management, and more to ensure the university ��. financial health and overall success.

LCOOU, which has a student population of up to 400 per year, has developed a facility plan for the next three decades. Recently, an 82-bed dormitory was completed. Future projects include additional student and family housing, a new CTE space, and an expansion of the nursing and EMT program spaces.

“I’m very thankful for the opportunity to serve as interim CFO. More importantly, I’m able to use my skills to move the university forward,” Smith said.

Supporting Indigenous values and education

Smith ��. goals as dean are to support students’ Indigenous values, traditions and lifestyles while achieving their education goals and to address challenges faced by Native Americans, including mental health issues and historical trauma brought on by the Native American boarding schools.

“The history of Native American education is marked by trauma. The consequences of this traumatic experience persist today, affecting mental health, self-esteem and cultural identity,” Smith said.

From the 1860s to the 1960s, native children were forcibly removed from their families and tribal communities to attend boarding schools. These schools aimed at assimilating native students into Euro-American culture, often through harsh methods like physical punishment for speaking their native languages or practicing their spiritual beliefs, Smith said.

She noted other challenges Native Americans face in education that she hopes to address:

High dropout rates and low college enrollment: Native American students face disproportionately high dropout rates compared to other student groups. Factors contributing to this include inadequate resources, cultural disconnect and a lack of support systems. Similarly, college enrollment rates among Native American students remain lower than desired. Financial barriers, limited access to higher education institutions and cultural differences play a role in this disparity.
Cultural relevance: Native American students often lack access to culturally relevant educational materials. The curriculum may not adequately reflect their history, traditions or contemporary issues.
Representation matters: Having Native American faculty members and administrators who understand their unique experiences can positively impact students’ sense of belonging and success.
Stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination: Native American students may face stereotypes, racial biases and discrimination. These negative attitudes may manifest within the campus environment or through insensitive curriculum content. Overcoming these challenges requires fostering cultural awareness and promoting inclusivity within educational institutions.

“It ��. essential to recognize and address these issues to create a more supportive and equitable educational environment for Native American students,” Smith said.

Inspiration through leadership

Smith began her undergraduate studies in engineering technology, but she needed to drop out of the program to help a family member who had stage IV kidney disease. She donated a kidney during that time, which caused a longer delay in returning to her education.

“After my family member was doing better, I decided to go back to school,” she said. “When I called �� and discussed my situation, I was told that I could switch my degree to the management program and work under the dual program to achieve my master ��..

“I felt heard and seen. I began my master ��. program while I was completing my undergrad studies. It was a huge relief and a seamless transition into my master ��. program.”

Smith was encouraged to make the call to return to school by her son, Aagimewikamig Dustin Morrow. “Dustin was instrumental in getting me to take the steps to contact and finish my degrees. Without his unwavering support, I don’t know if I would have,” she said.

She completed her capstone on the supply chain infrastructure among tribal nations. Her applied research consisted of exploring the supply chain needs among tribal nations and developing a supply chain management plan. She worked with Program Director Eli Aba, M.S. in operations and supply management, to expand her research and build supply chain operation capacities among tribal nations.

Smith is inspired by many people – her teachers, professors and friends – who have faced life challenges.

However, it is her grandparents, Henry and Agnes Smith, and her father, Don, Lac Courte Oreilles tribal members, who inspire her to continue her life's work.

Jodee Smith's grandparents, Henry and Agnes Smith, right and center, at their store in New Post / Jodee Smith

Henry and Agnes were entrepreneurs and owned a store in New Post, a community on the reservation. Henry was one of the first Tribal Chairmen for the Lac Courte Oreilles. Don served for more than 35 years as LCO health director.

“They taught me that we are made up of our mind, body, spirit and heart and must care for and grow each part to feel complete and in balance in my life and with our environment – Mother Earth and all the living beings,” Smith said.

Agnes took college courses at the age of 70. “When I asked her why, she said, ‘We should never stop learning, no matter how old we get, even if we learned everything that we were presented with to learn, that would be less than a grain of salt compared to what is out there to be learned,’” Smith said.

Prior to LCOOU, Smith was an instructor for Emergency Medical Response, First Aid, and CPR at Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College-Rice Lake, and worked in the field providing training to business personnel to meet their requirements.

She was a certified business plan writer for the Wisconsin Department of Commerce and was the founder and co-owner of Spirit Winds Consulting LLC, a business development consulting firm that held a Minority Business Enterprise Certification through the state MBE program. With Spirit Winds, she worked with state and federal agencies to help start-up MBEs in plan development, research and development, marketing, finance opportunities, and more.

�� . M.S. operations and supply management program is offered both on campus and in a flexible online format. It is housed within the operations and management department, which also offers master ��. programs in construction management; risk control and safety management; sustainable management; and training and talent development.

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Professor Willett presented at the 45th Annual International Conference on Critical Thinking.

September 12, 2025

�� alum named CFO, dean of CTE at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University

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September 8, 2025

Smith ��. dual degrees in management, operations, in-field experience readied her for role helping students become industry ready Jodee Smith

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Inspiring Graduate: Dipesh Sharma, M.S. Operations & Supply Management

giffeyt — Tue, 13 May 2025 19:35:57 +0000

Inspiring Graduate: Dipesh Sharma, M.S. Operations & Supply Management giffeyt May 13, 2025

‘Some professors touched my heart and taught me a lot about life.’

Inspiring Graduate: Dipesh Sharma (’25)

Hometown: Ahmedabad, India
Degree: M.S. Operations & Supply Management

Traveling thousands of miles from home and earning a University of Wisconsin-Stout master ��. degree in operations and supply management have given Dipesh Sharma the confidence and skills needed to succeed in the corporate world.

Sharma, who came to Menomonie from Ahmedabad, India, said the projects embedded in his classes at Wisconsin ��. �� helped prepare him for work in his field. “I have always admired application more than just learning something,” Sharma said. “So, for me, as I did more projects I kept getting a better feel for my subject. Group projects or even just group assignments also helped me get an idea of how it is to work in a team, which is crucial in the corporate world.”

Sharma was one of 1,174 students to receive �� degrees during the university ��. spring commencement on May 10. He looks forward to using the creative thinking he honed at �� in his future career.

“I am sure that once I get proper understanding of my field as I gain experience, I will find creative ways to either improve existing processes or create astonishing solutions to existing bottlenecks,” Sharma said.

What brought you to ��?

Destiny, perhaps. Initially I chose Stout because of its inclusive culture and its welcoming environment towards international students, and it has been so good to the international population. But then there were also so many things that happened to me after coming here that, when I think about them, it is quite impossible for me to negate the possibility I was fated to be here.

What is next after you graduate?

I am planning to get a job in a multinational company and work there for a while. I want to gain some experience, travel the world, get myself immersed in diverse cultures and then eventually I plan to start a business of my own. One thing that I know for sure is that as soon as I graduate and get a job, I am buying a motorcycle.

How has �� prepared you to work in your field?

Most of the courses I took had some sort of projects embedded into them. Some even had multiple projects, and this helped me apply my knowledge. I have always admired application more than just learning something. So, for me, as I did more projects I kept getting a better feel for my subject. Group projects or even just group assignments also helped me get an idea of how it is to work in a team, which is crucial in the corporate world.

What stands out about your �� experience?

The professors stood out the most. Every professor had their own way of teaching and some strengths associated with their teaching. They tried their best to give the students the best way to learn and provided profound knowledge.

Some professors touched my heart and taught me a lot about life as well along with the subject. I got to experience a variety of ways of learning and it broadened my horizon of thinking.

What challenges did you face in earning your degree and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges for me was homesickness as I had never lived this far away from my family and friends. I knew no one here. I was never an extrovert or good at making friends, but then the situation pushed me to go out of my comfort zone and I made good friends. As I spent more time with them I soon started feeling better and homesickness did not bother me a lot.

What are you most proud of as you finish your degree?

During these two years while I was pursuing my degree, there were many instances when I wanted to give up or I just wanted to be mediocre. Time after time, life kept knocking me down, and I was reminded of my limitations.

I still found hope during the darkest of times and during times when hope was as scarce in my life as air in space. I am really proud of myself for going even harder.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

I do want to share one thing – that life will throw anything and everything at you. Some days you will do good and some, not so good. Do not let the good or bad define your life. Keep smiling and keep laughing. Do not take life so seriously – you won’t get out of it alive anyways.

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Inspiring Graduate: Alex Stuckert, M.S. Operations & Supply Management

goersab — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 16:50:00 +0000

Inspiring Graduate: Alex Stuckert, M.S. Operations & Supply Managementgoersab January 13, 2025

‘I am capable of much more than I could ever have imagined.’

Inspiring Graduate: Alex Stuckert (’24)

Hometown: Woodbury, Minn.
Degree: M.S. Operations and Supply Management
Concentration: Project Management

Alex Stuckert earned his bachelor ��. in construction management and minor in construction safety and risk control from ��, while competing on the Blue Devil hockey team.

The team is what originally brought him to Stout – he played defense for five years, played in all 29 games his fourth and fifth season, and served as captain his fifth year in 2023-24, when the Blue Devils made it to the WIAC semifinals.

Alex Stuckert receives his master's hood at commencement / ��

Stuckert stayed on at �� to earn his online master ��. degree in operations and supply management with a concentration in project management while working as a full-time electrical distribution designer for Xcel Energy.

Online graduate school was the only viable option he saw that would enable him to execute his plan of working a full-time job, playing Division III hockey and attending school full-time.

Stuckert received his master ��. on Dec. 14, along with 510 graduates.

“�� . online OSM program was extremely flexible, allowing me to use my professional experience in the utility construction industry in class projects and exercises, allowing me to fulfill my job responsibilities, maintain strong customer satisfaction, and keep my mind and body in shape to give my hockey team the best chance of success,” he said.

“Having that flexibility gave me the ability to be a leader in my professional career and in the locker room.”

Stuckert is looking to advance his career at Xcel and strengthen relationships as he continues to grow into new positions within the company, as well as roles outside of work to make a bigger impact in his community.

Alex Stuckert and Chancellor Katherine Frank at commencement / ��

How has your �� experience changed you?

�� has changed my life by allowing me to gain both confidence and professional experience working with industry professionals.

I was able to earn a prestigious degree while competing with some of the best college hockey players at the Division III level, including serving as captain of the team in my final year.

How well has �� prepared you to work in your field?

During my undergrad, I was able to secure an internship after my sophomore year with Ironmark Building Company out of Minneapolis. I had a great experience with them as I learned what the inner workings of a highly successful construction company looks like and what it takes to be successful.

Being able to transfer knowledge directly from the classroom to a construction job site helped give me a true understanding and real appreciation of what I was learning at ��.

Alex Stuckert, No. 13, at the 2024 WIAC tournament / Photo by Chico La Barbera, �� Athletics

What stands out about your �� experience?

My time at �� as a hockey player stands out to me and has been a catalyst in my professional, athletic and educational career. My experience on the team complemented all of the leadership lessons, experiences and discipline I gained in my educational career.

I was named as a 2024 Academic All-District® Men's and Women's At-Large teams, selected by College Sports Communicators, which recognizes the nation's top student athletes for their combined performances in competition and in the classroom. I was also named a Krampade/AHCA All-American Scholar by the American Hockey Coaches Association.

Having an internship in the field supporting all the things I learned in the classroom, and then working for Xcel Energy took those combined experiences and magnified the impact I could have whether at work, in the classroom or on the ice. And now I can take all of those experiences and apply them to serving my community as well.

I was also invited to travel with Chancellor Katherine Frank and Athletics Director Duey Naatz to advocate for the student athlete experience at the Wisconsin legislature in Madison and accompanied the Athletics Director in touring the University of Minnesota Rec Well Center to see what other institutions are doing to support their student athletes.

These invitations gave me opportunities to serve as a student leader outside of work, the classroom or the ice, and also built upon my educational experience at ��.

What challenges did you face in earning your degree?

Alex Stuckert and a young Blue Devils hockey fan / Alex Stuckert

The most difficult challenge that I had, which I am sure is consistent with all student athletes, is time management. Last year, in particular, I worked full-time at Xcel Energy while going to school full time and while serving as captain and member of the hockey team.

I've always been disciplined, and while this schedule pushed me to the max, it also gave me an opportunity to see that if I am committed to something and put in the discipline to meet all of my goals, I am capable of much more than I could ever have imagined.

Managing my day-to-day schedule was also difficult to maintain a high grade-point-average, while playing collegiate hockey and keeping my mind and body in good health. Dealing with constant injury and working to rehab those injuries was also quite the hardship when I had so many other tasks that needed to be accomplished.

What are you most proud of as you finish your degree?

The thing that I am the most proud of is what I was able to accomplish in five years. I was blessed with so many supporting individuals who backed my decision to return for my fifth year of competition. My teammates, coworkers, family and friends helped push me and supported me to accomplish my goals.

I learned so much about myself and how much I was able to manage at one time; so much more than what I thought prior to beginning my graduate degree.

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‘I am capable of much more than I could ever have imagined.’ Alex Stuckert

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Supply chain management student taking next step to pursue master ��. degree

polingj — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 19:03:48 +0000

Supply chain management student taking next step to pursue master ��. degreepolingj October 9, 2023

Abdullah traveled a long road, pointing to a far-off destination, to reach ��

Zaid Abdullah traveled a long road, marked by numerous signs pointing to a far-off destination, to reach the campus of ��.

A native of Baghdad, Iraq, he has faint childhood memories of bombs falling during the Persian Gulf War of 1990-91. As a teenager and young adult, he lived through another U.S. incursion, Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2003 to 2011. He learned English early on, qualified to work as an interpreter at age 17 for the U.S. Army and then construction contractor rebuilding barracks at the U.S. Embassy.

Zaid Abdullah is enrolled in �� . M.S. in operations and supply management. / Contributed photo

As Abdullah interacted with American soldiers, including a captain who suggested he consider emigrating, and took to heart his father ��. recommendation to explore Western cultures, he began to dream of a future in the U.S.

He waited four years for a visa, but today he is living that dream. He is pursuing a master ��. degree in operations and supply management, one of 24 Graduate Studies programs at ��.

“I like the environment. I see the smiles everywhere. I have found open arms at Stout — they have embraced me,” he said.

After taking a summer course in Quality Management, Abdullah has two courses this fall, Project Management and Introduction to Financial Accounting. He is taking the courses virtually; the program is available online and on campus..

He also continues to work full time at the Fleet Farm Distribution center in Chippewa Falls, where he has worked since arriving in the U.S. in 2019. He chose that city initially to be near a friend from Iraq.

Prior to emigrating to the U.S., Zaid Abdullah, left, worked in Iraq as a contractor for the U.S. Embassy rebuilding barracks. / Contributed photo

“I love Wisconsin. I’m so excited to be here,” said Abdullah, 34, citing the friendliness, stability, diversity and safety in the region. “I feel stressed with no family around me and few friends, but at the same time I see the light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.

He ��. adjusted to the cultural changes, moving from a city of nearly eight million to one of 15,000, and major climate differences. He ��. even taken a Lambeau Field tour and become a Green Bay Packers fan.

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Excited for his future

Abdullah ��. goal is to graduate in 2½ years, find work at major companies or institutions then “lead, assist and train new staff to be a leaders in their companies and communities.”

The M.S. operations and supply management program prepares graduates for advanced leadership roles in global business and technical environments.

“Zaid is a student I believe in. The first time we had a virtual meeting, I knew he was an intrinsically motivated person,” said Assistant Professor Eli Aba, program director. “He comes to our meetings prepared and is able to let me know of any school issues and if I am able to advise. He is a model student, and he is doing very well in the program.”

Zaid Abdullah visits Lambeau Field with friends from Chippewa Falls, front row from left, Shannon Garry, Laura Garry and Aidan Garry. Back row, Timothy Garry and Addison Garry. / Contributed photo

Abdullah, who speaks four languages, earned a bachelor ��. degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Technology in Baghdad. That led to his job with a contractor at the U.S. Army for two years.

“God has sent good people my way,” he said. “I’ve learned how to think critically, communicate effectively and be a role model. Feed yourself with positivity.”

Abdullah is one of five children. His dad is an electrical engineer who finished his B.S. degree in Iraq and received additional telecommunications training in the U.S. His mother is a teacher. His siblings’ careers include computer science and math teacher, government health care associate, optometrist/owner of an optometry business and chemistry teacher.

A recent student panel discussion about transfer opportunities, hosted by Chippewa Valley Technical College, included graduate Zaid Abdullah. / Chippewa Valley Technical College

He has received financial support from �� with two scholarships totaling $3,000, one of them for transfer students. Prior to enrolling at ��, he added an associate degree in automation engineering technology from Chippewa Valley Technical College. A standout student, he served as the commencement speaker.

“Zaid is an extremely motivated student and consistently puts forth great effort,” said Mark Husby, program director and instructor for CVTC ��. automation engineering technology program. “He shows great enthusiasm for learning and embraces challenges with a positive attitude. He displays commitment to both personal and academic growth.”

At a recent event highlighting the transfer opportunities available between CVTC and �� and their collaborative relationship, Abdullah was one of three student participants invited to highlight his experiences on a featured panel.

“The transition to the master's program was really great after the graduate admissions office at �� reviewed and honored my home country diploma,” he said.

Abdullah plans to travel to Iraq in January to marry then return to Chippewa Falls with his wife and continue his studies at ��.

He hopes to become a U.S. citizen and remain in the U.S. “I have loyalty to Iraq and here, but I feel like this is my home country.”

###

Abdullah traveled a long road, pointing to a far-off destination, to reach �� Zaid Abdullah 1

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Preparing students for a global society

Eli K. Aba

Eli Aba finished University of Ghana in 2004 with Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. He published his undergraduate thesis in German and Ghanaian journals. He has won so many awards including Head of State Award Scheme in Ghana, Scholar at his high school, and Outstanding Graduate Student at the Department of Applied Engineering and Technology Management, Indiana State University (ISU). He did his National Service at 37 Military Hospital in Accra, Ghana for one year. He also worked for about one month for Myroc Group (tuna processing company) and other companies in Ghana before enrolling in a Master ��. program in Food Science.

He started his Master ��. program in Food Science at the same University in Ghana in 2006. He decided to apply to colleges in US and got admission to ISU and graduated with a Master ��. degree in Industrial Technology specializing in Packaging Technology in 2010. Also, he graduated with a PhD in Technology Management specializing in Quality Systems in 2013.

He is an ASQ Certified Quality Improvement Associate and has a host of others, including Certified Quality Engineer, Certified Six Sigma Green Belt, Certified Six Sigma Black Belt, Certified Senior Technology Manager, and Certified Senior Technical Manager. He belongs to several associations such as American Society for Quality and Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering.

Currently, he teaches Production and Operations Management, Project Management, Quality Engineering, Lean Enterprise, and Enterprise Resource Planning.

Full Name: Eli K. Aba

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Degree: M.S. Industrial Technology (Packaging Technology)

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Degree: B.S. Biochemistry

University: University of Ghana

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Free online operations, supply management courses introduce professionals to leading software

goersab — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 17:04:29 +0000

Free online operations, supply management courses introduce professionals to leading softwaregoersab April 16, 2021

Idea for camp stemmed from challenges brought on by the pandemic

Abbey Goers

University of Wisconsin-Stout is offering four free online Advanced Operations and Supply Management Camps this summer, designed to provide professionals with skills they can immediately apply in their organization.

The camp courses are self-paced and include prerecorded lectures, sample problems and real life scenarios to analyze. Activities and assignments introduce participants to software and concepts that may be of value to an organization.

MS OSM Program Director David Ding / ��

Each course will take participants five to six hours per week to complete. Assignments will be reviewed by Master of Science in operations and supply management Program Director David Ding, and feedback will be provided.

Pick two of four sessions

Participants may enroll in only two sessions each and will rank their preferred choices during registration. The Discovery Center will notify participants if they’ve been selected for their preferred camps.

Camp courses include:

May 24 to June 18, Introduction to Arena Business System Simulation: Organizations will need people with modeling and simulation skills to perform what-if analysis in new operations and to optimize post-pandemic processes.
May 31 to June 25, Apply Minitab 19 in Medical Device Production Control: Minitab is the most commonly used statistical analysis software. It can help medical device manufacturers perform analyses and provide records for FDA and ISO 13485 regulation auditing.
June 14 to July 16, Cognex Vision Sensor Introduction and Application in Manufacturing: Vision sensor is an important component in automation, ensuring high product quality and reducing labor costs. The course will introduce the fundamental application of vision sensor and provide examples on how to use them in industry.
July 12 to Aug. 6, SAP Introduction and Data Analytics with Tableau: SAP ERP System is the world's most widely used enterprise resource planning system. The course will introduce participants on how to perform analytics to support business decisions with the data generated from SAP.

Camp courses will be held in Canvas, an online delivery platform. Participants are required to download the free trial versions of the software. Links to the trial versions will be provided.

“The software programs introduced in the camp are considered the hottest in the industry,” Ding said. “The cost of the software and training are very high. Our summer camp provides the opportunity for our industry partners to taste and feel the software with hands-on experiences, so they can decide if they want to move forward.”

Because the camp is online, unlimited spaces are available. However, registrants will be chosen to participate on a first-come, first-served basis, as well as whether they have a bachelor's degree in a related area; plan to enroll in the MS OSM program or Six Sigma Black Belt Certification.

Approaching new challenges in business

The free camps were first offered last summer, with 44 people from 38 organizations attending.

An MS OSM graduate in the 3M Plant Engineering Stockroom. Photo taken pre-COVID. / ��

“The idea of the camp came from the pandemic challenge,” Ding said. “Businesses were facing serious challenges due to the shutdown, and most of them were seeking approaches to react to the challenge.”

The camp is held in partnership with �� . Manufacturing Outreach Center and the Discovery Center ��. Leadership Institute, with partial funding from the Economic Development Administration ��. CARES Act grant that supports leadership and pandemic response.

With support from the chancellor ��. office and the College of STEMM, Ding created the camp to support business partners and to allow potential students to explore the quality and content of the MS OSM and certificate programs.

“This project will help the industry to fulfill the skill gap in operations and supply related areas with no cost. It will also help the program, the college and the university to serve the stakeholders better,” Ding said.

Ding plans to offer the camp in the coming years and is allowing �� seniors to join starting this year to help their future career, he added.

To build a full skill set, student participants are encouraged to enroll in the corresponding graduate level course at ��.

The project reflects the mission and vision of ��:

It prepares campers in their professional career. They can learn skills needed in industry, without a financial investment.
It offers campers hands-on, career-focused, applied learning experiences.
It provides the opportunity for the university to work collaboratively with industry.

�� . operations and supply management master ��. program is offered both on campus and in a flexible online format.

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Professor Willett presented at the 45th Annual International Conference on Critical Thinking.

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Smith ��. dual degrees in management, operations, in-field experience readied her for role helping students become industry ready

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Xuedong (David) Ding

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Master ��. graduates enjoy challenges of career, work balance and improving themselves

powersp — Wed, 16 Dec 2020 18:18:05 +0000

Master ��. graduates enjoy challenges of career, work balance and improving themselvespowersp December 16, 2020

Operations and supply chain management students save industries millions of dollars

James Gunderson loved the challenge of his classes while earning his Master of Science in operations and supply management from University of Wisconsin-Stout.

But it wasn’t just that — he knows those studies help employers too.

“Every class I took challenged me to not only learn the methodologies of the coursework but apply them in my current role,” said Gunderson, of Eau Claire. “I learned a lot in discussion feeds on what worked well for my classmates and the coaching from professors at ��.

“The master ��. in operations and supply chain program at �� has a niche for creating immediate value for the organizations that have employees in the program. It is truly a win-win situation where �� supports innovation and growth for organizations across the globe.”

James Gunderson / Contributed photo

The program is offered online or on campus.

Gunderson, who works in the Chippewa Valley as a senior production supervisor, is graduating Saturday, Dec. 19. �� will have 637 graduates, including 133 from the Graduate School. Learn more about the virtual ceremony here.

In his master ��. project, Gunderson ��. client in one month saw a 70% improvement for work-in-process inventory dollars on the production floor of the department by using Lean Six Sigma, a method that relies on a collaborative team effort to improve performance by systematically removing waste and reducing variation.

“My thesis focused on the impact of implementing lean culture in a low performing climate of an organization and the rapid value-add it can create,” Gunderson said. “I truly believe any organization in any industry who wants to continuously improve, meet/exceed customer expectations and remain profitable in today ��. competitive global marketplace should consider implementing Lean Six Sigma methodologies.

“Not only did it create large dollar inventory cost savings, but it also increased employee morale and engagement at the front-line to continuously improve,” Gunderson added. “The creation of a systematic approach engaging the front-line to discover contributing factors for a problem statement and addressing those top factors with timely corrective action have created real value.”

Scott Gunnufson, the Colfax village president, who works at Andersen Windows Corp. based in Bayport, Minn., is graduating with the same degree. He is a senior supply chain analyst at the company.

Scott Gunnufson / Contributed photo

He decided to attend �� for his master ��. to help advance to a manager-level position. Gunnufson also earned his undergraduate degree at �� in business management in 2012.

“I tend to take on anything I can fit into my schedule where work and school are not my only obligations,” Gunnufson said.

He has been village president for seven years, owns a residential design business, sells real estate for Northwest Wisconsin Realty of Stone Lake, serves on the Dunn County Economic Development Corp. and is on the Chippewa Valley Technical College Building Steering Committee, ,he said.

Flexible and convenient courses

Gunnufson credited the flexibility and convenience of course schedules to be able to earn his master ��. while working and fulfilling his other obligations. He encourages other students to make sure they set a schedule and stick to it.

Professor David Ding, director of the operations and supply management program, said both Gunderson and Gunnufson are great students. “They both work hard, are focused and can relate working experiences to the course content. I believe both of them, as well as other MS OSM students, will have bright careers in the future.”

David Ding / �� photo

“The MS OSM program focuses on the goal of three wins — the students receive high-quality, graduate education to advance their careers; the industry benefits from the course projects that students do to improve operations performance; and the university completes its mission by supporting our community,” Ding said.

“It is very important for the MS OSM students to apply what they’ve learned in the program to improve the operation performances for their organization. The program strongly focuses on business impact. All of our faculty have professional industry backgrounds, some of them have multiple professional certifications and are still working with industry in some types of consulting capacity. This allows the program to stay on top and deliver content that meets industry needs,” he said.

Since 2015 program projects have generated more than $4.5 million in savings for the students’ organizations. “That ��. the value our program provides to industry” Ding said.

Sustainable operations lead to strong industries

Operations and supply chain management play an important role in American industry, Ding said. Business with well-managed operation and supply chains will have a faster response time to their customers, highly efficient operation, superior product/service quality, low inventory cost and low employee turnover rate, as well as a sustainable operation.

“Organizations are in the process of modifying/changing their operations and supply management strategies due to the COVID-19 pandemic; managers need to have vision, skill, leadership and project management ability to lead this change,” Ding said. “I am confident to say that the students graduating from this program are trained with the above credentials to help their organizations.”

Gunderson learns by applying course materials in the real world. The MS OSM includes high-level accounting and finance, human resources operations, quality, data analysis courses and is a difficult program but worth the work, he said.

“The way the faculty push you to do a project and implement it in your workplace while studying not only drives accountability for yourself to learn the material, but it makes it easier for you to see the value those methodologies create for high-performing organizations. Every single class that required me to apply the coursework added value to my organization.”

�� offers a Dual Level option. It allows students the opportunity to apply for a �� online master ��. degree when they are within 30 credits of graduating with their bachelor ��.. Then, some undergraduate coursework can be applied toward the master ��. program. The three Dual Level master ��. programs are operations and supply management, risk control and safety management, and training and human resource development.

�� also offers undergraduate degrees in supply chain management and management with a supply chain management concentration.

James Gunderson loved the challenge of his classes while earning his Master of Science in operations and supply management from University of Wisconsin-Stout. jamesgundersonweb.jpg

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Xuedong (David) Ding

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Degree: Ph.D. Industrial and Management System Engineering

University: University of Nebraska-Lincoln

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Master ��. student earns degree online while working in Vietnam

polingj — Wed, 17 Jun 2020 13:59:40 +0000

Master ��. student earns degree online while working in Vietnampolingj June 17, 2020

Brovold, manager for Ashley, graduated from operations, supply program

For a time in his life, Craig Brovold ��. home base wasn’t too far from home.

He grew up in Arcadia, in southwestern Wisconsin, and earned two- and four-year college degrees in nearby Winona, Minn. Although he studied abroad and had an internship in Florida, when he graduated in 2009 he went back home to Arcadia to work full time for Ashley Furniture Industries Inc.

He had worked there part time while growing up and in college.

Going to Ashley full time was a good career move. Ashley has become the No. 1 furniture-maker in the world.

In the last decade, Brovold ��. career with Ashley has taken him halfway around the world as a manager with the company ��. facilities in Vietnam. He has worked for Ashley in Vietnam since 2012.

Along with joining Ashley, he believes he ��. made another good career move by completing a Master of Science degree in operations and supply management from University of Wisconsin-Stout. He graduated May 9.

“I like to keep learning. I had the opportunity to get a master ��., and it all fell into place,” Brovold said.

“The program is what I do for a job right now. What I learned has helped me improve processes within my field and expand on what I knew,” he said.

Brovold heard about the �� program by accident. He frequently travels to technology shows for his job and happened to be at one in Germany about three years ago when he met Bob Meyer, who was �� chancellor at the time. Brovold ended up at breakfast with Meyer, who retired in 2019, and others from ��.

“I mentioned I was interested in a master ��. online program. I had no real ambition at the time. Meyer mentioned ‘we have online classes,’ and that ��. how it started,” Brovold said.

From about 8,500 miles away, Brovold earned his advanced degree at ��. The time difference is 12 hours.

He wasn’t always in Vietnam, either. His work travels took him to China several times, Turkey, Spain, Austria, Denmark, Germany and the U.S.

“I would be working on my degree from whatever country I was in at the time,” said Brovold, who is married with one child. “I was up front with the professors from day one and let them know I was in Asia. They were very understanding. It worked out quite well. I can’t say I had a bad professor.”

Despite growing up just 70 miles from �� and now being an alumnus, Brovold has never been to campus. He ��. hoping to stop by the next time he flies back home to western Wisconsin.

Professor David Ding, director of the master ��. program, served as Brovold ��. thesis adviser.

Projects by OSM students have saved their companies $1.6 million in the last eight years, Ding said. “That is the impact of the program.”

Ding is excited that Brovold will serve as an OSM advisory board committee member. “His unique international experience will benefit the program,” Ding said.

�� . Graduate School offers 23 programs, with flexible curriculum including online and hybrid delivery options.

###

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Craig Brovold

David Ding

For a time in his life, Craig Brovold ��. home base wasn’t too far from home. Craig Brovold

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Xuedong (David) Ding

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Online management degree provides student transition to master ��.

goersab — Thu, 21 May 2020 17:57:51 +0000

Online management degree provides student transition to master ��.goersab May 21, 2020

Zahradka becomes first management graduate to enter Dual Level program

Abbey Goers

Shaun Zahradka graduated from Northcentral Technical College in Wausau in 1998 with an associate degree in laser technology. For two years, he worked at Balliu MTC in Lokeren, Belgium, before returning to the states.

Over the next 10 years, Zahradka was an application and installation engineer, traveling the world and installing machines on six continents. But when he and his wife decided to start a family, they settled down in Rapids City, Ill. Zahradka is now the operations manager at Lincoln Electric ��. facility in Bettendorf, Iowa.

When Zahradka began to think about going back to school for a degree in management, he listened to his family ��. advice. Zahradka ��. wife and her grandfather are �� alumni. And his brother-in-law is a graduate of �� . management program.

“It made the most sense for me to have my bachelor ��. in management, for my current job and my future goals,” he said.

His home in Illinois was a long way from ��. But with online programming, Zahradka was nearer to reaching his goals.

Online degree gives back time and experience

Shaun Zahradka, online management graduate. / Shaun Zahradka

For Zahradka, it all came down to time. Most of his credits from Northcentral transferred to ��, saving him roughly two years. And the flexibility of the online program allowed him to set his own pace, taking three classes a semester, including summer courses.

He could complete his coursework during his lunch hour, after his sons went to bed or on the weekends.

“I would never have completed the classes if I had to go to a brick and mortar school,” he said.

With the variety of concentrations available through the program, Zahradka chose a concentration in operations management, which suited his current position perfectly. He was also able to use his work experience for his required internship, applying lessons to his work and relate his real world experience back to his studies.

“My whole approach to the program was shaped by my past experiences and helped me get more out of the program,” he said.

Zahradka ��. work experience also helped him during his capstone class in which he worked with a local business on a human resources project.

“Even though it was a different industry, there were a lot of items that I could present from my work history to further the project,” he said.

Starting his online master ��. in the Dual Level program

Now, Zahradka is looking forward to starting his master's in operations and supply management, something he never thought he’d do. But with the approval of the Dual Level program in April 2020, a second online degree was within Zahradka ��. reach.

Zahradka in his office at Lincoln Electric ��. facility in Bettendorf, Iowa. / Shaun Zahradka

The Dual Level option allows students the opportunity to apply for a �� online master ��. degree when they are within 30 credits of graduating with their bachelor ��.. The three master ��. programs are operations and supply management, risk control and safety management, and training and human resource development.

Pending acceptance of dual enrollment, Program Director Renee Surdick will advise students about coursework that can be applied towards their management degree and master ��. degree simultaneously.

With careful planning, students can finish their undergraduate degree with up to nine credits already in place towards their master ��. in operations and supply management or risk control and safety management, and up to three credits towards training and human resource development.

“The management program is the only program on campus currently implementing the Dual Level option,” Surdick said. “We are piloting the process with the three master ��. degree programs for the next year.”

A day after the Dual Level program was approved, Zahradka was accepted into the master ��. program, becoming the first student from �� . management program to do so.

Time, again, was a large factor for Zahradka. The Dual Level program reduces the amount of time he needs to obtain his master ��.. The dual credits also save him money, which helps, he said.

“To students thinking about their master ��., I’d say, if you qualify and are interested in a graduate-level education, the Dual Level program is a no-brainer,” he said.

Zahradka hopes to earn his bachelor ��. and master ��. both in fives years. He’ll graduate with his bachelor ��. in December 2020.

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�� Online engineering, education, management programs ranked among best by U.S. News & World Report

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Zahradka becomes first management graduate to enter Dual Level program shaunzahradka_hero.jpg

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Hero Caption: Shaun Zahradka, �� management graduate and operations manager at Lincoln Electric ��. facility in Bettendorf, Iowa.

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Professional Interests: Impact of Effective Leadership - Leadership Coaching - Quality Teaching Strategies - Organizational Change Process - Business Development and Success Variables

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Inspiring Graduate: Zaid Abdullah, M.S. Operations & Supply Management

Supply chain management student taking next step to pursue master ��������. degree

M.S. Operations & Supply Management

Polaris, School of Education directors encourage grads to be proud as they ‘improve our world’

Willett presents at the International Conference on Critical Thinking

�������� alum named CFO, dean of CTE at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University

Supporting Indigenous values and education

Inspiration through leadership

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M.S. Operations & Supply Management

Inspiring Graduate: Dipesh Sharma, M.S. Operations & Supply Management

Inspiring Graduate: Dipesh Sharma (’25)

M.S. Operations & Supply Management

Kraus-Anderson vice president, regional education leaders credit �������� with shaping them

Inspiring Graduate: Alex Stuckert, M.S. Operations & Supply Management

Inspiring Graduate: Alex Stuckert (’24)

M.S. Operations & Supply Management

Alumni recognize communication, connections, genuineness as necessary to be trusted leaders

Supply chain management student taking next step to pursue master ��������. degree

M.S. Operations & Supply Management

Excited for his future

Office of International Education

Free online operations, supply management courses introduce professionals to leading software

Pick two of four sessions

Approaching new challenges in business

M.S. Operations & Supply Management

M.S. Operations & Supply Management Online

Master ��������. graduates enjoy challenges of career, work balance and improving themselves

Master ��������. student earns degree online while working in Vietnam

M.S. Operations & Supply Management

Online management degree provides student transition to master ��������.

Online degree gives back time and experience

Starting his online master ��������. in the Dual Level program

B.S. Management & Leadership

M.S. Operations & Supply Management

Supply chain management student taking next step to pursue master ��. degree

�� alum named CFO, dean of CTE at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University

Kraus-Anderson vice president, regional education leaders credit �� with shaping them

Supply chain management student taking next step to pursue master ��. degree

Master ��. graduates enjoy challenges of career, work balance and improving themselves

Master ��. student earns degree online while working in Vietnam

Online management degree provides student transition to master ��.

Starting his online master ��. in the Dual Level program