Get the right blend of practical and theoretical knowledge from a unique team of industry and academic experts.
This one-of-a-kind training opportunity provides professional development with a deep dive into purchasing and supply chain management. This 18-week program is hosted by AIAG and the Wayne State University Mike Ilitch School of Business.

Engaging, interactive learning experience: Actively engage with real-world scenarios via group discussions, breakout activities, presentations, case studies, facility tours, online sessions, and other immersive methods of instruction.
Instruction from top industry and academic leaders: Gain insights from a diverse group of professionals, including experts from OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and experienced academic faculty.
In-depth exploration of current and emerging topics: Prepare for both current and future industry demands with a deep dive into EV infrastructure and AI, procurement strategy, supplier development, quality management, and more.
Capstone project and certification: Wrap up with a final project and presentation, earning a certificate for successfully meeting program requirements.
Continuing education credits: Earn up to 54 credits over 18 sessions — 9 in the winter/spring and 9 in the fall — to apply to certifications from various professional organizations, including ISM, CSCMP, and ASCM.
This exclusive training condenses complex concepts and best practices into a highly accessible format. It also helps participants build lasting relationships and valuable connections to better adapt and succeed in the ever-evolving automotive industry.
Completing the WSU/AIAG Certificate in Purchasing and Supply Chain has significantly advanced my career. The program's comprehensive curriculum provided me with essential knowledge and practical skills directly applicable to my role. The dedicated instructors ensured we fully grasped the material, and the opportunity to network with industry peers was invaluable. This certification has truly enhanced my ability to drive efficiencies and innovation within my organization.
| Proposed Topics |
|---|
| Kickoff + Industry Update |
| Globalization and Vehicle SCM + Authentic Leadership |
| Category Management + Warehousing/Sequencing/Cross-Dock/Pooling Str. |
| Improving Supply Chain Performance + Global Customs/Security Management |
| Purchasing Legal + Quality Management |
| Forecasting + Buyer/Seller Relations and Innovation |
| Corporate Responsibility + Negotiations |
| STELLANTIS Mack Assembly Plant Tour |
| Supplier Development + First Half Wrap Up |
| Global Sourcing and Total Enterprise Cost |
| WRI + Finance |
| AI/Predictive Analysis + Packaging |
| Risk Management + Inventory Management Strategy |
| 3PL Logistics + Class Presentations |
| Class Presentations |
| Manufacturing, Scheduling, Capacity, and Lean + Class Presentations |
| Finished Vehicle Logistics + Class Presentations |
| Wrap Up/Graduations |
| Proposed Speakers |
|---|
| Lori Sisk (Mike Ilitch School of Business, Wayne State University) |
| Brandon Mason (Eaton Corporation) |
| Mike Silvio (Gibralter Industries) |
| Jan Griffiths (Gravitas Detroit) |
| Terry Onica (QAD) |
| Ed Doughtery (Valeo) |
| Tim Smith (Norcross + Judd LLP) |
| Hakan Yilidz (Mike Ilitch School of Business, Wayne State University) |
| Randy Pappal (Gentex Corporation) |
| Tanya Bolden (AIAG) |
| Hugo DeCampos (Weber State University) |
| Angela Johnson (Plante Moran) |
| Sig Huber/Tor Hough (Elm Analytics) |
| Bridget Grewal (Magna Corporation) |
| Bill Hurles (formerly with General Motors) |
| Jeff Rightmer (Mike Ilitch School of Business, Wayne State University) |
| Brian Green (Ryder Corporation) |
| Nick Thompson (VASCOR Logistics) |
Get member pricing on this program and other great benefits for you and your company by becoming a member of AIAG. Current college students may qualify for free AIAG membership.