UNF and Suddath launch new Logistics IT Solutions Lab
Students benefit from more meaningful collaboration, discussion and research, using simultaneous live-data feeds across multimodal transport systems
The University of North Florida (UNF) and The Suddath Companies are pleased to announce the launch of a new UNF Suddath Logistics Information Technology Solutions Lab. In a grand opening ceremony at the Coggin College of Business on October 11, 2022, UNF and Suddath leaders, other members of the business community, alumni and current students explored how the lab’s new technology and design will enhance the learning experience of students enrolled in the Transportation and Logistics program.
As part of a multi-year sponsorship commitment from Suddath to UNF, the lab has been equipped with tools and resources that are in use in the industry today, helping students acquire critical practical skills for job readiness. Students can now engage in more meaningful collaboration, discussion and research, using simultaneous live-data feeds across multimodal transport systems, including road, rail, sea and air.
“We are extremely fortunate to partner with The Suddath Companies to offer this new state-of-the-art technology lab within our College’s Transportation and Logistics program,” said Dr. Richard Buttimer, dean of UNF’s Coggin College of Business. “The Suddath Logistics Information Technology Solutions Lab will provide students access to real-time data and information relevant to building logistics analytics capabilities. We’re excited that with Suddath’s support, our students will gain greater opportunities to research solutions that can alleviate challenges impacting the supply chain and will help UNF to develop more skilled talent for the growing transportation and logistics industry.”
The events of the past two years have shown a spotlight on just how critical effective supply chain management and fulfillment are to businesses and consumers. Disruptions or bottlenecks in one location have far-reaching effects globally.
Now, driven by a continued surge in ecommerce, the third-party logistics (3PL) market is expected to exceed $297 billion U.S. dollars by 2023, according to research from Statista. As the demand for more warehouse space and better transportation, communication and delivery channels grows, businesses that aggregate and analyze end-to-end supply chain data to anticipate and solve for potential impediments have a significant competitive edge.
“Suddath is proud to support this initiative, delivering an enhanced learning experience that both inspires and prepares the industry’s future leaders,” notes Michael J. Brannigan, Suddath President and CEO. “Jacksonville is a dynamic and growing multimodal transportation hub, and we’re very pleased to play a part in cultivating – and keeping – the best talent here, with many different roles that offer promising and rewarding careers.”
Learn more about the UNF Transportation & Logistics Program.