Supply Chain Pathway – Fresh Graduates

What Program Is Good for Me?” – A Mini Series for the Supply Chain Curious

Over the years, we’ve had a steady stream of fresh graduates and supply chain hopefuls approach us with the age-old question:
“What program is good for me?”

And our answer?
“It depends.”
(We know, we know – it’s not the punchy advice you were hoping for.)

The truth is, there’s no magical one-size-fits-all course that unlocks the supply chain universe. If there were, we’d all be sipping coffee on perfectly balanced pallets by now.

At NZPICS, we offer a buffet of supply chain programs — from beginner-friendly to advanced, from tactical boots-on-the-ground operations to 30,000-foot strategic thinking. Whether you’re fresh out of uni, making a career pivot, or still figuring out what “RCCP” stands for (don’t worry, we got you), there’s something here for you.

Who This Mini-Series Is For:

This mini-series — What Program Is Good for Me? — is lovingly designed for:

• New graduates
• Career changers thinking, “Supply chain sounds cool… but what is it?”
• Anyone entering the supply chain jungle with curiosity and minimal baggage (experience-wise, that is)

Good News:

The programs we’ll highlight have no prerequisites — so you don’t need experience, a warehouse, or a forklift license to get started. Just bring your brain, maybe a notepad, and a sense of humour.

Let’s help you find the program that fits you — not the other way around.

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Supply Chain Course

1. Define Your Direction: What Do You Actually Want to Do?

Before choosing a course, ask yourself:

• Which area interests me most?
  → Planning? Logistics? Procurement? Warehousing? Data & analytics?
• Do I want to learn a specific skill, or get a broad overview of how supply chains work?
•  Am I aiming for a leadership role long-term, or do I want to master a technical area first?

Clarity here helps you pick a course that aligns with both your interests and your future goals.

2. Choose the Right Certification for Your Career Stage

Think of certifications like stepping stones — each one builds on the last.

• If you’re just starting out:
  Go for a foundational course that gives you a well-rounded understanding of supply chain fundamentals.
• Once you’ve gained some hands-on experience:
  Upgrade to a more advanced or specialized certification focused on areas like logistics, planning, procurement, or analytics.

The right course now should prepare you for success both in your first role — and the ones after it.

3. Think About Value: Recognition & ROI (Return on Investment)

Before enrolling, consider:

• Is the certification recognized in your country or industry?
  A well-known certification opens more doors.
• Will it improve your job prospects or help you stand out to employers?
  Look at job listings — are any certifications mentioned?

4. Evaluate the Top Entry-Level Certifications from ASCM

5. Match the Course to Your Target Domain

Still have question/s ? pls email us call us on info@nzpics.org.nz or call Vijay on 021 525 604.