If you’re interested in knowing what it’s like to work in a Supply Chain and Logistics role, keep reading to learn about Kaitlyn Veitch’s unique experience through the BComm program that led her to decide to pursue a career in Supply Chain and Procurement.

Kaitlyn Veitch is an alumna of the BComm Class of 2013 with a major in Marketing. She is currently the Acting Procurement Manager for Irving Shipbuilding. During her time in the program, Kaitlyn explored three separate marketing roles through her co-op work terms. It wasn’t until her 4^th year that she became interested in the Supply Chain sector. Kaitlyn says that she stumbled upon the field of procurement through a case competition that she participated in. She says the case competition opened her mind to other career avenues and opportunities that she didn’t know were available.

“Procurement brings in elements of marketing I love; such as creativity and building strong messaging, along with analytical aspects of finance. I love the balance of analytical and interpersonal skills that Supply Chain/Procurement requires”.

When asked about her biggest learning outcome from the program, Kaitlyn says to view every experience as an opportunity for growth. The challenges she faced throughout her work terms turned out to be the most valuable to grow and learn from as a young professional. Kaitlyn also believes that the nature of the BComm program gave her a significant competitive edge when applying for jobs post-graduation.

“I felt so prepared thanks to the structure of the program and the added value of utilizing the Management Career Services team”.

“The integration of practical work and coursework really allowed me to develop a diverse set of skills. It was of great benefit to see how the classroom work applied in an industry setting. I grew and developed professionally and personally in a way that I never could have without the integrated learning structure that the BComm program offered”.

Kaitlyn says the biggest piece of advice she has to offer to current students is to keep an open mind and to stop worrying about making the wrong choice when it comes to your co-op work experiences.

“The co-op program not only allows you to kick-start your career, but it also allows you to learn about what you enjoy and what skill sets you would like to continue developing once you graduate.”

“Looking back now, I don’t think there was such a thing as a wrong choice for my work terms. Each work term gives you the opportunity to learn and develop while exploring different opportunities. Each work experience is what you make of it”.

If you want to gain more industry-specific advice about either a career in Supply Chain and Logistics, or the other industries related to the various BComm program majors, make sure to attend the Industry Student Panel & Fair on October 30^th. Attend this event to learn tips and tricks to make the most out of your co-op work terms. And for more information on the Supply Chain & Logistics sector, check out our Industry Fact Sheet available on through the resources page in the MCS section of myCareer.