Eric Lammert, ’24 MS in Supply Chain Management: Building Skills, Networks, and Confidence
Wednesday, February 12, 2025
Meet Minnesota Carlson's community and learn about the experiences and career connections we offer.
What was your initial reason or motivation for pursuing an MS in Supply Chain Management?
I’m naturally curious; I’m always looking to learn and grow. There are many fantastic people in the job market, and I felt I needed something to separate me from the pack. During the pandemic, there was so much focus on supply chains and their impact on the global economy that I knew specializing in supply chain management would be a valuable investment.
Why did you choose Minnesota Carlson?
I spent a lot of time researching master’s programs, and I found the Master of Science in Supply Chain Management (MS SCM) program at the Carlson School of Management was highly ranked and very well respected. To me, it was a no-brainer. I liked the idea of working in a cohort and doing the bulk of the classwork in person on campus. There are other programs out there, but very few have as much to offer as the program at Minnesota Carlson. The instructors are all very well respected and leaders in their field. Carlson at the University of Minnesota is world-renowned, and the lifetime benefits one gains from being an alum pay dividends.
What has been or was your most valuable Minnesota Carlson experience or lesson?
I had the amazing opportunity to lead my capstone group project. Leading a group of highly skilled and talented people to help solve a real-world problem gave me practical skills I use in my career today and will use for many years to come. The program faculty provided valuable insights and direction, making our contributions even more worthwhile. In addition to all the knowledge and lessons learned in the coursework, learning how to lead and be impactful as a leader was my most positive experience in the program.
Program
’24 MS in Supply Chain Management
Hometown
Colorado Springs, CO
Fun Fact:
I love to travel; I’ve been to 14 countries.
Undergraduate School and Major:
Metro State University, BS Supply Chain and Operations Management
Current Job Title and Employer
Sun Country Airlines, Senior Manager, Strategic Sourcing
My Minnesota Carlson experience changed the trajectory of my life and career in many ways, but the main thing it changed was my confidence. Completing a very demanding program while working full-time and managing life gave me the confidence to know if I could do that, I could do anything.
How has your Minnesota Carlson experience helped you change your career path and get to where you are?
My Minnesota Carlson experience changed the trajectory of my life and career in many ways, but the main thing it changed was my confidence. Completing a very demanding program while working full-time and managing life gave me the confidence to know if I could do that, I could do anything. Additionally, the relationships I developed and networking opportunities opened doors I didn’t know existed. I now have hundreds of people I can turn to and collaborate with to solve complex problems in the ever-changing world of supply chain management.
What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Carlson’s MS in Supply Chain Management program?
Be bold, take a chance, and believe in yourself. I decided to get a master’s degree in my late 30s. It’s not the most comfortable time to spend hours a day learning and being challenged, but it’s through being uncomfortable and challenged that we grow the most. If you want to be impactful and accelerate your career, go to Carlson and learn from some of the finest instructors in the world.
