Sydney Hanson, ’23 MS SCM: From Soldier to Supply Chain Leader
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Meet the Minnesota Carlson community and learn about the experiences and career connections we offer.
What was your initial reason or motivation for pursuing a Master of Science in Supply Chain Management?
My primary objective for seeking a master’s degree in supply chain management was to better situate myself for promotion to Major in the MN Army National Guard. Additionally, I wanted to gain some formal knowledge on my career path in supply chain and logistics.
Why did you choose Minnesota Carlson?
I heard about this program through another soldier who praised the program and its flexibility for working professionals. The ability to continue working full-time while earning my degree through nights and weekends was the most realistic option for me to pursue higher education. The program’s timeline fit well with my life, with some sacrifice to my personal time, but well within reason.
What has been your most valuable Carlson experience?
I have referenced my notes from multiple courses numerous times since being in the program. I was fortunate to have saved many notes and reference materials to utilize and influence my work as able. Specifically, I have referenced Big Data Analytics, SIOP and leadership course material as it pertains to my roles since completing the program. My introduction to Tableau and Power BI proved more valuable than I expected, given that I had no prior experience with these systems before the course.
Program
’23 MS SCM
Fun Fact
MN Army National Guard Soldier (17 years)
Undergraduate School and Major
South Dakota State University, Biological Sciences
Most Recent Employer & Job Title
Sr. Fleet Manager, Polaris Industries
The ability to continue working full-time while earning my degree through nights and weekends was the most realistic option for me to pursue higher education.
How did being part of Minnesota Carlson’s broader business ecosystem — spanning the Twin Cities community, local industries and global partners — shape your experience in the Master of Science in Supply Chain Management program?
I built a strong network of professionals in my field in the Twin Cities. I have encountered many of them since school and socialized with some of them as well. I leveraged my professional status not only through education but also through additional contacts and networking. I was able to learn about other roles and industries from my peers, even though I wasn’t in the specific industry myself, which has helped shape my experience.
How has your Carlson experience helped you change your career path and get to where you are?
I am certain that my additional education, along with my work experience and ethics, has advanced me into roles with higher pay and greater responsibility. I have said that a bachelor’s degree is the new high school diploma; everyone has one, and it no longer sets you apart. Continuing your education beyond the “normal” level helps prove your motivation and efforts to improve yourself and the company you work for or will work for.
What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Carlson’s Master of Science in Supply Chain Management program?
The idea is daunting and the time is demanding, but if you trust in yourself and take the leap, I am certain you can put your head down for one year and achieve the goal of obtaining your master’s degree. If you value socializing and extracurriculars, take this short break to dedicate your time instead to higher education. A year will fly by, and it is truly a blip in the grand scheme of life. I have been deployed for one year, and I have completed this master’s program for one year, and I certainly don’t feel like I missed out on life; instead, I have done more than many others can say they have done if they just stick to their normal year-after-year life. Determine what’s important to you and ensure you have your family's support, because without it, this program will be more difficult than it needs to be.
