In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Ron Walters, Director of Digital Technology at Collins Aerospace (an RTX business), to explore the intersection of supply chain management and digital transformation. Ron shares insights from his 25+ years of Fortune 500 experience and military service, discussing how AI, automation, and advanced analytics are reshaping supply chain visibility and operational performance.

He explains the commonalities across industries, from military to aviation, that all supply chain professionals can apply, and offers practical advice on successfully transforming complex supply chain processes through digital adoption. Listeners will gain valuable perspective on building supply chain resilience, understanding technology use cases, and preparing for the evolving landscape of the next 5-10 years.

Takeaways:

• Ron's career journey from Army Intelligence Officer to leading digital transformation at Fortune 500 companies
• How digital transformation, AI, and automation are fundamentally reshaping supply chain visibility
• Practical strategies for transforming complex supply chain processes through digital adoption
• Advice for supply chain professionals and students on building careers at the intersection of technology and operations

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr

Guest Bio:

Ron Walters is an accomplished operations and technology leader with over 25 years of Fortune 500 industry experience. He has held leadership roles in manufacturing, supply chain, strategic sourcing, and IT business transformation at globally recognized companies, including General Electric, Black & Decker, Ingersoll Rand, and Trane Technologies.

Currently, Ron serves as Director of Digital Technology at Collins Aerospace (an RTX company), where he plays a critical role in aligning technology strategy with business objectives, driving efficiencies, and enabling enterprise-wide digital initiatives. Before his current role, he served as Director of Supply Chain Technology and Systems, leading digital transformation efforts across the company's global supply chain and leveraging advanced technologies to enhance visibility, automation, and operational performance.

With a deep background in digital transformation, Ron specializes in leveraging digital applications, AI, automation, and advanced analytics to enhance efficiency, streamline enterprise processes, and drive digital adoption. He actively shares insights on digital ecosystems, supply chain resilience, and emerging technology trends through industry engagements, professional collaborations, and his passion of mentoring employees and students.

Prior to his corporate career, Ron served five years as an Intelligence and Reconnaissance Officer in the U.S. Army. He holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Penn State, an MBA from Indiana University Kelley School of Business, and a graduate certificate in Digital Transformation for Senior Executives from The Wharton School.

In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Chieh Huang, founder of Boxed and CEO of Pelgo, to explore his journey from shipping toilet paper out of his parents' garage to leading a publicly traded e-commerce company and now building an AI-powered workforce platform. Chieh shares the operational engineering behind making unit economics work on low-margin, high-volume items, his early adoption of autonomous guided vehicles in fulfillment centers, and the evolution from pure automation to human-machine collaboration.

Listeners will gain actionable insights on balancing cutting-edge technology with operational reality, preparing teams for rapid change, and leading with humor, humility, and perseverance in today's dynamic supply chain landscape.

Takeaways:

• The operational engineering behind making unit economics work on low-margin, high-volume e-commerce items
• Early adoption and evolution of autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs) and the balance between automation and human flexibility
• Pelgo's mission to retrain workers for AI-forward roles and the potential for gamifying frontline supply chain work
• Cultural leadership lessons from Boxed, including employee education benefits and building anti-micromanagement teams

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr

Guest Bio:

Chieh Huang is a Co-founder and the CEO of Pelgo. Prior to Pelgo, Chieh was the President of the World Economic Forum's Global Collaboration Village. Throughout his career, Chieh has founded and led both public and private companies. He was the CEO of Astro Ape, an early pioneer in mobile social gaming later acquired by Zynga. During his time at Zynga, Huang led Zynga Mobile's New York studio, which produced one of the company's first homegrown, chart-topping mobile games. He was also a co-founder and the CEO of Boxed, an NYSE listed online retailer, and Spresso, an AI-powered pricing optimization company acquired by Blackrock. Before his days as an entrepreneur, Huang was a corporate attorney at a leading law firm after attending The Johns Hopkins University and Fordham Law School.

Huang currently serves on the Board of Six Flags, the world's largest regional theme park operator and has also served on several non-profit boards, including New York Cares and The Museum of Chinese in America. Chieh also serves on the Advisory Board for Mclaren Racing, with entries in Formula 1, Indycar and WEC.

Huang's personal honors include being named to Bloomberg's "50 people to watch", Crain's "40 Under 40", Goldman Sachs' list of "100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs" and Entrepreneur Magazine's "The 50 Most Daring Entrepreneurs." People Magazine profiled Chieh for their "American Dream" series, tracking his growth from humble beginnings to leading industry-changing initiatives like the Pink Tax and college tuition reimbursement. You can also catch more of him at TED.com delivering a talk about his lifelong battle against micromanagers.

In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Kathy Fulton, Executive Director of the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN), to explore how supply chain expertise saves lives during disasters. Kathy shares her journey from IT leadership at Saddle Creek Logistics Services to building ALAN's Supply Chain Intelligence Center, which predicts disaster impacts and coordinates relief efforts. She discusses the evolution from responding to three major events annually to managing constant mobilizations, her 2023 testimony before the U.S. Senate Budget Committee on climate change impacts, and strategies for building supply chain resilience. Listeners will gain insights on humanitarian logistics, disaster preparedness, and how private sector professionals can leverage their skills for meaningful impact beyond efficiency metrics.

Takeaways:

• The transition from commercial logistics to humanitarian supply chain leadership
• Building predictive systems for disaster response coordination
• Supply chain resilience strategies for climate-related disruptions
• How logistics professionals can contribute expertise to disaster relief efforts

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr

Guest Bio:

Kathy Fulton is the Executive Director of American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN), focusing on the critical role industry expertise can play in disaster relief. She leads the organization in delivering logistics and supply chain assessment, coordination, and education to support responsible disaster relief. Kathy has served on national workgroups focused on efficient coordination of logistics activities during disasters, including those hosted by the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine, the Department of Homeland Security, the Transportation Research Board, National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, and the National Emergency Management Association.

In 2023, Kathy was invited to testify before the U.S. Senate Committee on the Budget on the impact of climate change on supply chains and in 2019 she was named a Supply Chain Rainmaker by DC Velocity Magazine.

Prior to joining ALAN, Kathy served as senior manager of information technology services at Saddle Creek Logistics Services, where she led IT infrastructure implementation and support, corporate systems, and business continuity planning. She holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Northwestern State University of Louisiana and dual master's degrees in business administration and management information systems from the University of South Florida.

In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Elena Polansky, Founder of Somerset Solutions Advisory Partners and former Chief Procurement Officer and Vice President of Global Sourcing & Procurement at BioMarin Pharmaceutical, to explore the evolution of procurement from a support function to a strategic value-engine. Elena shares insights from her 25-year career, including over 20 years at Pfizer where she delivered more than $1 billion in cumulative savings. She discusses navigating hidden costs in global sourcing, from geopolitical volatility to regulatory complexities, and the unique procurement challenges within life sciences. Elena also emphasizes the power of curiosity, asking smart questions, and staying open to feedback as essential traits for success in today's dynamic supply chain landscape.

Takeaways:

• Procurement's transformation into a strategic business driver
• Managing hidden costs and risks in global pharmaceutical sourcing
• The role of innovation and technology in modern procurement
• The importance of curiosity and continuous learning

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr

Guest Bio:

Elena Polansky is a results-driven executive and strategic advisor with more than two decades of experience transforming procurement, operations, and organizational culture across global enterprises. As the Founder of Somerset Solutions Advisory Partners, she focuses on unlocking value through procurement transformation, supplier ecosystem optimization, and strategic advisory support. Her work centers on helping organizations evolve with clarity, confidence, and measurable impact.

Before launching Somerset Solutions, Elena served as Chief Procurement Officer and Vice President of Global Sourcing & Procurement at BioMarin Pharmaceutical, where she established a centralized global sourcing function. Under her leadership, the team harmonized tools and processes, strengthened sourcing capabilities, and exceeded savings targets.

Elena spent 20 years at Pfizer, advancing through multiple senior leadership roles in Global Sourcing and Global Supply. She delivered more than $1 billion in cumulative savings across direct and indirect categories and led the Internal Medicines External Supply organization, overseeing a global network of 50+ contract manufacturers producing 1,500+ SKUs. Her leadership ensured supply continuity, quality, and agility across diverse and highly regulated supply ecosystems.

Elena began her career in consulting, leading strategy development, technology implementations, and change management initiatives for clients in the manufacturing and distribution sectors. At Andersen, she executed ERP implementations and software selection engagements; at Proxicom, she shaped digital strategy for a global bank and led the design of an internal knowledge management platform that improved collaboration and firm-wide efficiency.

Elena is a proud Penn State alumna, holding a BS in Business Logistics and International Business from the Smeal College of Business. She resides in New Jersey with her husband—also a Penn State graduate—their two children, and their two dogs.

In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Alex Habbaz, Owner and Managing Director of Fleet Distribution Centers, to explore the evolving world of third-party logistics and warehousing. Alex shares insights from over two decades of building a customer-first 3PL operation in the competitive New Jersey port area, discussing how Fleet Distribution Centers maintains its position as a provider of choice for household-name brands. He addresses the real-world impacts of tariffs and port strikes on operations, emphasizing the importance of agility and communication during periods of disruption. Alex explores the growing demand for value-added services in warehousing and how customer needs continue to shape the industry. Looking ahead, he discusses the role of automation in warehouse operations, challenging the misconception that technology replaces workers rather than enhancing their capabilities. Whether discussing competitive differentiation or the future of warehouse technology, Alex's perspective offers practical wisdom for building resilient, people-centered logistics operations.

Takeaways:

• Strategies for maintaining competitive advantage in the 3PL space
• Navigating business disruption from tariffs and port strikes
• The evolution of value-added services in modern warehousing
• How automation enhances rather than replaces warehouse teams

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr

Guest Bio:

Alex Habbaz is the Owner and Managing Director of Fleet Distribution Centers, a New Jersey–based third-party logistics and warehousing company serving brands across apparel, consumer goods, and specialty retail.

He built Fleet with a simple idea: strong logistics isn’t just about moving product—it’s about building systems, people, and meaningful partnerships.

Alex leads a high-volume operation focused on warehousing, fulfillment, inventory management, and EDI integration. He is known for modernizing warehouse operations through smart use of technology, automation, and process design, while keeping people at the center of everything he builds.

A proud Penn State alum, Alex graduated in 2000 and remains deeply connected to the university and its community. He regularly engages with education-focused initiatives and leadership programs tied to student and alumni development.

Beyond operations, Alex works closely with clients on strategy, growth, and scalability—helping companies design logistics models that can grow with them. His leadership philosophy is built around accountability, developing people, and building systems that make the business better tomorrow than it is today.

Outside of business, Alex is active in community leadership, youth sports, and education-focused initiatives. Whether coaching, mentoring, or serving on nonprofit and community boards, he brings the same mindset everywhere: invest in people, raise standards, and build for the long term.

In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Joe Morrissey, President of Groendyke Transport, Inc., to explore the evolving landscape of trucking and logistics. Joe shares insights from his 40+ years in the industry, discussing the critical challenges facing transportation today, from driver retention and operational costs to technological integration. Drawing from his extensive career across marquee companies, Joe emphasizes the power of mentorship and authentic leadership in building high-trust cultures that drive operational excellence. He offers practical advice for navigating industry volatility while maintaining agility in high-pressure environments. Joe also discusses his work with the Florida Trucking Association and the importance of advocacy in shaping the future of transportation. Whether you're a seasoned executive or aspiring professional, Joe's perspective provides invaluable guidance for leading in today's dynamic supply chain landscape.

Takeaways:

• Navigating the primary challenges of the modern trucking industry
• Leadership strategies for building trust and operational agility
• The impact of mentorship on career development
• Career advice for the next generation of logistics professionals

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr

Guest Bio:

Joe Morrissey is President of Groendyke Transport, Inc., a well-respected 93 year old bulk trucking company based in Enid, OK, and Vice Chairman of the Florida Trucking Association, a premier state trucking association. With more than 40 years of domestic and international experience, Joe has led across transportation and logistics, chemical, and technology companies, with a career-long focus on strategic sourcing, supply chain optimization, and delivering exceptional value through operational excellence.

An accomplished senior executive, Joe brings hands-on leadership experience spanning sales and marketing, service delivery, operations, safety, strategic planning, logistics, and procurement. Prior to joining Groendyke, he held senior leadership roles including President and CEO of CTL Transportation, Vice President of Commercial Services at Schneider National Bulk Carriers, and executive positions with ChemConnect (now Intercontinental Exchange), RubberNetwork (now Elemica), and Chemical Leaman Tank Lines (now Quality Carriers).

A Philadelphia area native, Joe’s career has taken him to 7 states, and he is currently primarily based in Tampa. Joe is a proud graduate of Penn State University holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Supply Chain and Information Systems. He also earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Wilmington (DE) University.

In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Marty Duff, SVP of Supply Chain & Operations at YETI, to explore the complexities of managing a global supply chain for one of the world's most iconic premium brands. Marty shares insights into YETI's product-driven approach, emphasizing innovation across their food and beverage, gear and equipment, and soft goods categories. He discusses strategies for building resilient supply chains through geographic diversification, maintaining three key sourcing markets to mitigate risks like tariffs and global disruptions. Marty delves into essential leadership skills, particularly curiosity, and how empowering teams to make data-driven decisions drives organizational success. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on navigating industry transitions across technology, CPG, and retail, and learn how to build high-performing teams in volatile markets. This conversation offers a masterclass in balancing operational excellence with the unique demands of a premium consumer brand.

Takeaways:

• Building resilient supply chains through geographic diversification
• Leading product-driven innovation at YETI
• Empowering teams for data-driven decision-making
• Leadership lessons across diverse industries

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr

Guest Bio:

Marty Duff has been with YETI since November 2022 as SVP Supply Chain & Operations, overseeing all global sourcing, planning, quality, logistics, fulfillment and inventory controls and continuous improvement initiatives for the Company. Before joining YETI, Mr. Duff spent 11 years at VF Corporation in several supply chain leadership roles, most recently as the Vice President, Supply Chain – America's Region, where he led all supply chain and operations planning and logistics for brands including The North Face, Vans, Timberland, and Dickies across the US, Canada, Mexico and distributor markets. Prior to his time at VF Corporation, Marty spent nine years at Johnson & Johnson in a number of operational leadership positions for brands like Neutrogena, Aveeno, Johnson's Baby. He holds a B.S. in Marketing and International Business and an MS, Business Administration, from Penn State University.

In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Andy Mowery to explore his distinguished 34-year career journey through Johnson & Johnson and The Clorox Company. Andy shares insights on leading global supply chain operations, driving operational excellence, and building resilient organizations in today's volatile market. He discusses the strategic role of technology in advancing supply chain capabilities, offering practical advice for companies without extensive resources. Andy reflects on fostering collaboration and innovation both internally and externally, and shares how his consulting experience prepared him for executive leadership. Now an adjunct instructor at Penn State's Smeal College of Business, Andy offers wisdom for the next generation of supply chain professionals navigating their career paths.

Takeaways:

• Leading and scaling global supply chain operations across healthcare and CPG industries
• Leveraging technology to build agile and resilient supply chains
• Fostering collaboration and innovation with limited resources
• Career guidance for aspiring supply chain leaders

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr

Guest Bio:

Andy Mowery is a seasoned supply chain professional with a 34-year industry career, predominantly with Johnson & Johnson and The Clorox Company. In his time at The Clorox Company he led Global Strategic Sourcing, Supply Chain Strategy, Global Operations and he concluded his career as the Senior Vice President and Chief Product Supply Officer, retiring in December 2020. In addition to his supply chain and Executive Committee responsibilities he was the Executive Sponsor for the Veterans ERG, and a member of the Compliance and Ethics, Enterprise Risk Management, and Employee Benefits Steering Committees.

After retiring from industry, he has remained actively engaged in entrepreneurial ventures as a Board Member and Advisor to Oii.ai and as an advisor for the Happy Valley Launchbox. Andy is also an adjunct instructor at The Smeal College of Business where he shares his experiences and passion for supply chain with Penn State students.

Andy is a third-generation Penn State alumnus and holds a Bachelor of Science in Quantitative Business Analysis and a Master of Business Administration from Villanova University.