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The transportation industry has long been in search of its next generation labor force, putting a lot of time and resources into Generation X, Millennials and Generation Z to replace retiring Baby Boomers.
DHL (CCJ Top 250, No. 30) has taken its efforts several steps further, setting its sights on Generation Alpha – the current generational crop whose oldest members are barely 10 years old. In a partnership with Girl Scouts of the USA, the two groups are establishing a program and branded patch to empower Girl Scouts to learn about the importance of the supply chain industry and discover a myriad of careers in the field.
DHL Supply Chain President of Transportation Jim Monkmeyer said his company is supporting the development of the curriculum by providing logistics experts and knowledge to help craft content for four activities the Girl Scouts will complete to earn the Logistics Patch.
"We have formed a core group of employees who have expertise in HR, Talent Management, Solutions Design, Engineering, Transportation and Warehouse Operations to ensure that the curriculum provides a true reflection of the world of supply chain and logistics," he said. "In 2023 and 2024, the Logistics Patch program content will be piloted in 11 cities where 300 DHL Supply Chain employee volunteers will help execute and facilitate Career Days at our sites to support Girl Scouts in earning their Logistics Patch. The program will also be piloted by local Girl Scout troops in those 11 cities prior to the National Launch of the Logistics Patch program to all Girl Scout Councils in 2025."
DHL Supply Chain is a longtime supporter of Girl Scout councils throughout the U.S, including providing local mentorship opportunities in several cities and for many years supporting Scouts with mega cookie drops and other volunteer capacities.
"This Logistics Patch takes that support to another level. What the girls do is a great example of end-to-end logistics, but they may not know of the industry or understand what career paths are available to them," Monkmeyer said. "This patch will not only get them excited about a career in logistics, but it is also setting an early path towards getting more women in the field, which is a key focus for our company."
