Student Spotlight: Kai Laidhold

Young man with short, wavy light brown hair and light facial hair, wearing a dark suit jacket and white shirt, smiling slightly in front of a dark gray textured background.
April 16 , 2025  |  By Sydney Ford

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This post was originally shared on LinkedIn by the Sam M. Walton College of Business.

Meet Kai Laidhold, a second-year supply chain management major from Roswell, Georgia, with a minor in business analytics. At Walton College, Kai has combined classroom learning with experiential opportunities and professional development — preparing to take the next step in his career this summer as an Area Manager Intern with Walmart.

Q&A with Kai:

What is a Walton College resource you have utilized that has benefited you?

I’ve utilized several Walton College resources, especially this year. The Advising Center helped me declare my minor and plan my class schedule. Walton Career Services was especially helpful in guiding me through internship opportunities. Their support played a big role in helping me secure my upcoming internship position.

What has been your favorite Walton College class?

My favorite Walton College class so far has been Integrated Supply Chain Management with Professor Gabaldon. She’s incredibly knowledgeable about the field and brings so much enthusiasm to the classroom. Her passion and teaching style inspired me to switch my major to supply chain!

Is there a professional experience during your time at Walton College that had a significant impact on you?

One professional experience that had a significant impact on me was attending ProMat, the world’s largest supply chain convention, held in Chicago every other year. Wanting to take advantage of every opportunity to better understand the field, I stayed in contact with Professor Gabaldon, who encouraged me to apply. I was honored to be selected as one of four students to represent Walton College at the event. In March, I attended the convention where I expanded my network, explored the industry’s latest innovations, and gained a much clearer vision of the career path I want to pursue in supply chain.