WSU student selected for prestigious trucking program to shape the future of logistics

DETROIT - Wayne State University's Global Supply Chain Management (SCM) program continues to produce outstanding talent, and one of its rising stars has been recognized on the national stage.

Last month, Wayne State student Ahmed Saeed was one of 18 college students invited to the American Trucking Association's Trucking U in Nashville, seizing the unique opportunity to expand his knowledge and build vital industry connections. Trucking U is a competitive and prestigious program aimed at cultivating the next generation of leaders in the trucking and logistics industry.

"Trucking is huge within the supply chain, incredibly huge," said Saeed, who will graduate in December with a double major in global supply chain and technology information systems and analytics. "You may know this, but everything that we encounter has been on a truck at one time or another."

Saeed's selection to the four-day event is a reflection of both his academic dedication and the strong mentorship he has received from Wayne State faculty in the SCM program. Together, their collaboration exemplifies how the program at the Mike Ilitch School of Business helps students translate classroom knowledge into real-world impact.

Saeed credits associate professor Kevin Ketels, an expert in supply chain strategy and a longtime advocate for experiential learning, for guiding him and others through the college-to-career journey.

"Professor Ketels has been a driving force in my education," Saeed said. "He constantly pushes us to think beyond textbooks and to apply what we learn in practical settings. His encouragement to attend events like Trucking U is what led to this amazing opportunity."

Ahmad Saeed (left), with Caden Weaver from Colorado State University and Gabe Lopez (right) from Auburn University, were among 18 students from 12 different universities invited to attend this year's Trucking U event, sponsored by the American Trucking Association, and held at the Music City Center in downtown Nashville.

Through this partnership, Saeed has gained more than just theoretical knowledge. Wayne State faculty introduce students to real-world projects, such as case studies with corporate partners in the automotive, health care and other industries, helping them develop a well-rounded understanding of corporate complexities. Saeed says the professors' strong networks give him and his peers access to leaders in the supply chain sector, opening doors that might otherwise be difficult to enter.

"Luckily, we have this amazing staff within the supply chain program," he said. "Lori Sisk, Kevin Ketels and Jeff Rightmer have been incredible with helping us make sure that we're connecting. They send weekly emails on events that we could be pursuing in all different sectors of supply chain. I'm very grateful for Wayne State."

Beyond mentoring, Wayne State's supply chain faculty facilitate opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience. Through partnerships with major corporations in Detroit and beyond, students can participate in internships, co-ops and industry events that prepare them for the challenges of the global marketplace.

"Our extensive Ilitch School of Business college-to-career support infrastructure empowers our students with the skills, connections and hands-on experiences that they need to stand out and succeed in high tech and rapidly changing businesses," said Virginia Kleist, Ph.D., dean of the Mike Ilitch School of Business. "The remarkable achievements of our students are a testament to their incredibly hard work and the strong support from our faculty. Together, we are preparing that next generation of excellent business leaders who are ready to make a meaningful impact on the global supply chain landscape."

Trucking U provided Saeed with the chance to immerse himself in the fast-evolving world of trucking and logistics. He was grateful for the opportunity to engage with executives, learn about cutting-edge technologies and discuss the most pressing issues facing the industry.

"This wasn't just a chance to learn; it was an opportunity to carve a path into the logistics sector, potentially securing full-time employment," Saeed said. "This experience is invaluable for my career and I'm excited to bring back what I learned to my studies and future job opportunities."

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