Challenge and Change in Supply Chain Management: Pointed Questions and Blunt Answers.

摘要

The Supply Chain Management Concentration Program at the Industrial College of the Armed Forces is one of the most demanding and highly regarded focused study programs in the DoD education system. This year, 36 senior officers, government civilians, and industry fellows are participating in the year-long experience, which includes the opportunity to interact with senior officials and supply-chain experts from military and civilian organizations. After retired Army Lt. Gen. Claude 'Chris' Christianson's presentation to the class last fall, they asked that he be invited back for a no-holds-barred, 2- hour, one-on-36 Q&A session about critical supply-chain issues in DoD. Their intent was to ask their toughest questions about the most vexing issues for the department's senior logistics leadership. Christianson readily accepted the role of target to a room full of sharpshooters. No amateur at defending his views, Christianson has long been noted for his candor, strongly held opinions, and willingness to engage and discuss his views with anyone; he is frequently called upon to speak at events around the nation and the world. Having served 37 years on active duty with tours as both the Army G4 and the Joint Chiefs of Staff J4, as well as assignments as a C4 in three operational theaters, including as the Coalition Forces Land Component Command C4 for Operation Iraqi Freedom, he is particularly suited to discussing these issues. The Feb. 9, 2011, session turned out to be one of the most valuable classes in the entire supply chain program and lasted well beyond the 2 hours allotted, with several questions -- and ensuing debates -- left unfinished.