Upcoming Events, Courses, and Talks

Global manufacturing and supply chains are undergoing a major transformation. The traditional model of offshoring production to the lowest-cost regions is being challenged by new priorities—speed, resilience, geopolitical stability, and total cost of ownership.

In this workshop, we will examine how businesses are rethinking global production strategies in response to disruptions over the past decade. The workshop explores how nearshoring—moving production closer to home—and friend-shoring—sourcing from politically aligned partners—are reshaping the global supply chain landscape. 

Participants will also examine how businesses are shifting from Just-in-Time inventory strategies toward “Just-in-Case” models, helping organizations reduce risk and build resilience against future disruptions.

Through real-world examples and strategic frameworks, attendees will gain practical insights into how to balance cost efficiency with operational stability while designing supply chains capable of navigating an increasingly complex global economy.

Who Should Attend

• Manufacturing executives evaluating supply chain strategy

• Startup founders planning production and sourcing decisions

• Logistics and operations professionals navigating global trade shifts

• Entrepreneurs building physical products or hardware businesses

• Students interested in global supply chain strategy

About the Organization

The Illinois Innovation Network (IIN) is a statewide collaborative that brings together universities, industry partners, and communities to drive innovation, economic development, and workforce advancement across Illinois. Through initiatives like the Supply Chain Innovation Center and Business Incubator (SCICBI) at Governors State University, the network supports entrepreneurs, businesses, and students with research, training, and industry partnerships that strengthen supply chain capabilities and foster regional economic growth.

About the Instructor

Dr. Tricia Kerns is Associate Director of the Supply Chain Innovation Center and Business Incubator (SCICBI) at Governors State University and a senior lecturer in the College of Business. She brings over 20 years of experience in operations and supply chain management across manufacturing, logistics, and distribution. Dr. Kerns holds an Ed.D. in Ethical Leadership and an MBA in Leadership, and is a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certified through Purdue University. She also holds multiple industry certifications including APICS CPIM, CLTD, and SCPro, and works closely with industry partners to advance supply chain education and workforce development.