Grant Hoeldtke’s path into supply chain wasn’t part of his original plan, but once he discovered it, there was no turning back.
After earning his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Finance from the University of Arkansas in 2022, he began to see how critical supply chain operations are to the global economy. Today, Hoeldtke is building on that foundation while completing his Master of Science in Supply Chain Management. Just ahead of his planned graduation, he was selected by department leadership as their 2026 Graduate Outstanding Program Scholar.
Below, Grant shares more about his journey, his experience in the program, and his advice for others considering a future in supply chain.
What made you choose the Master of Science in Supply Chain Management program?
I originally graduated from the University of Arkansas in 2022 with a major in finance and a minor in marketing. During my senior year, I became more aware of what supply chain really was—thanks in part to everything happening during COVID-19—and I enrolled in a few introductory courses.
After graduation, I started my professional career in supply chain, and nearly four years later, I’m still fascinated by it. That interest, combined with my current role, led me to pursue the Master of Science in Supply Chain Management. I’ve always loved the University of Arkansas, and with the strength and reputation of this program, it was an easy decision to come back.
What is your current job? How are you applying what you’re learning in the program?
I’m currently a Demand Planner II at Enovis, a medical technology and device company. Prior to this role, I worked as a Supply Planner and Supply Planner II, so I’ve had the opportunity to grow within the supply chain space fairly quickly.
A large portion of what we study in the program directly connects to what I do every day. Demand planning and supply planning are both core parts of the S&OP process, and those concepts come up across multiple courses. I find myself regularly applying what I’ve learned in class to real-world scenarios in my job.
What are your favorite moments or memories from the program?
The lectures have been some of my favorite experiences. The professors make them engaging and worthwhile. They’re incredibly knowledgeable, approachable, and bring real industry insight into the classroom.
The field trips have also been a highlight. Visiting a Walmart Store and seeing how supply chain technology is used in a real-world setting was both fun and eye-opening. Those kinds of experiences really bring the material to life.
As you approach graduation, what advice would you give to prospective or current students?
Take full advantage of being with your professors and peers. The discussions and perspectives you gain from those experiences can really shape how you think about supply chain and management.
How has the program prepared you for future success?
The program has set me up for both immediate and long-term success. It’s changed how I approach challenges, both from a leadership perspective and in terms of supply chain strategy.
As I continue working toward becoming a leader in the supply chain field, I feel confident that this program has given me the tools and mindset to take that next step. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to grow their career in supply chain management.
**
Are you interested in building a career in supply chain? Click here for more information about the program, including admission information, application deadlines, and how to schedule a time to talk to an enrollment advisor.
