Educational Tracks

EDGE presents a highly rated educational program spanning the end-to-end supply chain with the latest innovations, insights and perspectives shaping the industry.

Curated by our dedicated member volunteers, known as Track Chairs (scroll to the bottom to meet the 2025 class), EDGE delivers up to three sessions each on Monday, October 6th (EDGE Sessions 1-3) and Tuesday, October 7th (EDGE Sessions 4-6). Note that each track is exclusive to either Monday or Tuesday, so plan your schedule accordingly.

The sessions feature diverse formats, including panels, dynamic workshops, and lectures, offering actionable takeaways and best practices. Please stay tuned for updates as Track descriptions may be adjusted to reflect the ever-evolving state of the supply chain. Elevate your knowledge and expertise at EDGE 2025!

Submit a session idea for the EDGE 2025 Call for Sessions here.

Ask the Expert Theater — Presented Sunday, 10/5︱Monday, 10/6︱Tuesday, 10/7

The Ask the Expert theater will offer panel discussions providing powerful opportunities to discuss and learn new and innovative solutions being offered to solve industry disruptions and demands we face today.

C-Level Discussions — Presented only on Monday, 10/6

Co-Track Chair: Paul Hong, Distinguished University Professor, University of Toledo
Co-Track Chair: Keith Farnsworth, Vice President of Sales, CrossCountry Freight Solutions

Keep your EDGE! This track provides a unique opportunity to enhance your engagement with the C-suite on today’s hot topics. Join our expert-led panels, speakers and thought leaders for audience-engaging conversations on artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, advancements in data analytics and economic dynamics, as well as tangible examples for driving efficiency, resilience, and a competitive advantage. Take away insights on how to leverage trends and adapt your global supply chains for future success.

Current Research & Surveys — Presented only on Tuesday, 10/7

Dive into the cutting-edge realm of supply chain dynamics with a curated collection of groundbreaking research and surveys. Explore the forefront of industry insights, meticulously crafted by seasoned thought leaders armed with powerful metrics and data-driven solutions. Elevate your strategic priorities by immersing yourself in the invaluable knowledge presented at the highly anticipated CSCMP's Annual State of Logistics Report®, brought to you by Penske Logistics. Don't just stay informed—be empowered to conquer your most critical challenges.

Emerging Trends — Presented only on Monday, 10/6

Embark on a journey into the dynamic landscape of the global marketplace, where staying ahead is not just an option but a necessity. Delve into the exploration of imminent trends that are poised to reshape the business landscape. Uncover and understand the emerging forces that will define the near future, ensuring you are not just prepared, but positioned to thrive amidst evolving market dynamics. Stay one step ahead by immersing yourself in the critical insights and foresight presented in this track.

Global Supply Chain — Presented only on Tuesday, 10/7

Co-Track Chair: Maria Marti, CEO, ZeroError
Co-Track Chair: Miquel Serracanta Domenech, Managing Director, Solutions & Decisions

Global Supply Chains are navigating a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by unpredictable geopolitical dynamics, disruptive technological advancements, and major talent challenges. In this track, seasoned C-level executives will share solutions and insights implemented in their businesses. Through the interconnected lenses of people, processes, and technology, we will explore insights from the Boardroom, regional perspectives, and the role of Generative AI in shaping the future of supply chain resilience and innovation.

Industry Solutions Series I, II, III — Presented Monday, 10/6︱Tuesday, 10/7

These immersive educational sessions promise to deliver a panoramic 360-degree view of both current and future advancements in the industry, showcasing groundbreaking solutions from industry leaders and innovative providers. Gain invaluable insights into the latest technologies, strategies, and best practices that are reshaping the landscape of supply chain management. Uncover the nuanced details and strategic approaches adopted by leading companies, providing you with a deeper understanding and a roadmap to navigate the evolving challenges and opportunities in the modern supply chain ecosystem.

Innovation Theater — Presented Sunday, 10/5︱Monday, 10/6︱Tuesday, 10/7

In a “Shark-Tank” like fashion, exhibitors and sponsors will be given the opportunity to present a 15-minute demonstration to market their innovations and technologies, followed by a 5-minute Q&A.

Leadership & Talent Development — Monday, 10/6

Presented by CSCMP’s Young Professionals Committee

Track Chair: Samantha Stec, Americas Supply and Demand Planner – Biogel Surgical Gloves, Molnlycke US

This track explores how and why companies seem to understand the saying of “You get what you plan for” when it comes to the goods they produce, but not when it applies to the people they hire and train. Session topics will focus on the strategy to building and retaining a workforce that meets the demands of a modern economy.

Network Planning & Optimization — Presented only on Tuesday, 10/7

Co-Track Chair: Michael Heisman, Founder & CEO, Tansect, Inc.
Co-Track Chair: Ryan Smith, Account Executive, LifeWork Search

The time is now...nearshoring, AI, geopolitical events, and natural disasters are all the forefront of supply chain discussions, and when paired with traditional supply chain changes Network Planning and Optimization are more important than ever. Failure to plan creates significant waste through inefficiencies and significantly impacts your organization's ability to react and stay ahead of the curve. These sessions will introduce you to those that have walked this path, and we hope to educate, inspire and excite you about opportunities to improve your own networks.

Order Fulfillment & Customer Experience — Presented only on Tuesday, 10/7

Co-Track Chair: Joseph Bozzo, EVP Sales, Activ Technologies
Co-Track Chair: Megan Smith, Managing Director, Packgistics of Florida

Discover the latest advancements in Order- Fulfillment strategies and how they shape the Customer Experience (CX). The landscape of Order- Fulfillment has evolved, driven by a shift in customer expectations. As consumers increasingly prioritize speed, accuracy, and flexibility, the link between Customer Experience (CX) and Order- Fulfillment strategies has become more crucial than ever before.

Risk Mitigation — Presented only on Tuesday, 10/7

Co-Track Chair: Barry Brewer, Associate Professor of Supply Chain Management, Brigham Young University
Co-Track Chair: Tiffany Anderson, Senior Product Manager, U.S. Bank

Supply chain exposure to disruptions has increased with amplified global and national complexity. Managing through disruptions (disasters, geopolitical, cyber-attacks, global financial events, and supplier, demand, and transportation issues) has become an organizational necessity. Understanding disruptions, developing strategies, preparing processes and resources, and being able to execute an effective operational response often significantly impacts company performance. The track explores these topics with the goal of providing perspectives to improve company resilience.

S&OP and Inventory Planning — Presented only on Tuesday, 10/7

Co-Track Chair: Alex Albert, Vice President of Supply Chain and Procurement, Xponential Fitness
Co-Track Chair: Gerald Verno, Director - Supply Chain Planning and Analytics, WMATA

This track explains how to navigate, understand, and leverage today's technologies to the fundamentals of S&OP and Inventory planning. Participants will walk away with a better understanding of how today's "Perma-crisis" environment calls for a need to have the technology, people, and processes working together.

Attendees will discover how tying the fundamentals to the innovations will optimize demand forecasting, streamline supply chain operations, and reduce inventory costs in real-time. All the while, making better collaboration across key business stakeholders - sales, finance, marketing, etc.

Lastly, examining these topics through the lenses of technology, people, and processes, these sessions aim to empower participants by providing actionable takeaways from Industry leaders, looking to elevate their supply chains.

Spotlight Series I, II, III, IV — Presented Monday, 10/6︱Tuesday, 10/7

These sessions boldly showcase the world-class products and services our sponsors have to offer. Immerse yourself in an unparalleled exploration of cutting-edge solutions, providing you with an insider's view of the transformative possibilities that lie ahead. Don't miss this unique opportunity to engage with industry leaders and discover the future of supply chain excellence in a setting that breaks free from convention. The spotlight is on – are you ready to be captivated?

Sustainability — Presented only on Monday, 10/6

Co-Track Chair: Bill King, Director, Logistics Solutions Management, SAP North America
Co-Track Chair: Simone Ross, Director Business Development NA East Region, bluesign technologies ag

Today's supply chains are evolving due to various factors such as climate impact, increasing regulation and shifting attitudes towards sustainability. Effective sustainability management can distinguish your company in the market while generating additional value. In this track we will learn how companies are successfully enhancing environmental practices, ensuring social compliance, and boosting transparency within supply chains.

Technology & Innovations — Presented only on Tuesday, 10/7

Co-Track Chair: Jaymie Forrest, President & CEO, Activ Technologies, Inc.
Co-Track Chair: Jonathan Smith, Senior Business Consultant, Tata Consultancy Services

This track explores the transformation of supply chain management through technology and innovation. We delve into how automation, data science, decision intelligence, and AI revolutionize decision-making processes. Come learn the difference between ML, LLM, AI, Generative AI, Agentic AI, LAM, Decision Intelligence, etc. We’ll cover key factors for successful technology deployment with real world examples highlighting how to generate value, accelerate innovation, and improve organizational adoption. Join us to uncover the future of supply chain management.

Transportation & Logistics — Presented only on Monday, 10/6

Co-Track Chair: Heather Dohrn, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer, Dohrn Transfer Company
Co-Track Chair: Geoff Muessig, Chief Marketing Officer/Executive VP, PITT OHIO

In the fast-changing landscape of transportation and logistics, the dynamics of nearshoring, reshoring, and disruptions from international channels are reshaping freight lanes. These shifts have prompted industries to adapt and innovate in response to changing market forces. As supply chains navigate through these fluctuations, the transportation function emerges as a crucial pivot point, tasked with absorbing and resolving both upstream and downstream pressures. Supply chain professionals continue to work through these problems today. Shipper, carrier, and 3PL executives will discuss the strategies that they have used to solve recent transportation disruptions while also sharing their insight concerning the management of the challenges that lie ahead.

Warehousing & Distribution — Presented only on Monday, 10/6

Co-Track Chair: Edson Carillo, Chairperson, CONNEXXION CONSULTING LTD
Co-Track Chair: Sharon Kariampuzha, Associate, JLL

Warehousing and distribution are at the heart of an increasingly complex and dynamic supply chain landscape. As businesses face persistent labor shortages, rising operational costs, automation breakthroughs, and ongoing global disruptions, the need for innovation and adaptability has never been greater.

This track will explore cutting-edge strategies and real-world applications that drive efficiency, resilience, and competitive advantage in warehousing and distribution. Industry leaders will share insights on labor, robotics and automation, strategic real estate decisions, and data-driven improvements. By fostering discussions around best practices, technological advancements, and operational excellence, this track will empower supply chain professionals to build more agile, cost-effective, and future-ready warehousing and distribution networks.