Having spent his entire career in the U.S. Army specializing in logistics and supply chain management, Dairious Robinson knew he wanted to continue in the field when he transitioned out of military service. To augment 23 years of practical, hands-on distribution expertise, Robinson was determined to also complete his bachelor’s degree before returning to civilian life. Thanks to a $5,000 academic scholarship from the Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI), he was able to do so.

RMI Scholarship Helped Fund Supply Chain Management Degree

Robinson’s career in the Army began in 1999. He managed logistics, operations, and transportation from locations around the world. As he rose through the ranks, his assignments sent him to facilities in Afghanistan, New York, Washington, Japan, and South Carolina.

Eying a military retirement in 2021, Robinson enrolled at American Military University in 2019 to earn his bachelor’s in logistics, materials, and supply chain management. He had already completed an associate’s degree in leadership and applied sciences from Thomas Edison State University in New Jersey, as well as additional supply chain training from Defense Acquisition University.

“Before I retired from the Army, I wanted to make sure I completed my degree program. Since I transferred my GI Bill to both of my children, I was using tuition assistance. But it had a cap that was going to prevent me from reaching my goal,” he recalled.

That’s when Robinson began searching for scholarships earmarked for supply chain management majors. He applied for an RMI Honor Scholarship underwritten by ASG Services and part of the Material Handling Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI). Recipients can apply their RMI scholarship to tuition, fees, books, and other education-related costs.

To be eligible for an RMI scholarship, an applicant must be a full-time undergraduate enrolled for an entire academic year. They must also be planning a career in supply chain, logistics, or material handling. Further, they should demonstrate strong leadership skills, a commitment to excellence, persistence in their educational pursuits, and growth potential.

Career Followed Supply Chain Management Degree

Robinson was awarded an RMI scholarship for the 2020-2021 academic year. While the funds helped him achieve his educational target, he said their impact didn’t stop there. The award also encouraged him to pursue a career in his chosen field.

“I was intentionally seeking roles in supply chain management after my military career,” Robinson noted. “Receiving the RMI scholarship not only helped me to fast track my degree program, but it also gave me the confidence to meet and network with other like-minded people.”

After graduating with his bachelor’s degree in 2021 Robinson hired on for a three-month logistics management internship at Microsoft. The opportunity was part of the Department of Defense’s SkillBridge Program. He subsequently accepted a full-time Logistics Manager position full-time with the software company.

Currently based in Columbia, South Carolina, he reported that the role at Microsoft has been an excellent fit. Robinson routinely applies both his military expertise and his post-secondary education to improving distribution center (DC) operations.

“I enjoy the fast pace and complexity in my career,” said Robinson. “I also enjoy that no two days are the same. Plus I have an opportunity to meet people I would have never met before.”

Advice for Others Interested in the Supply Chain Field

Although Robinson’s military career steeped him in all things supply chain, distribution, and logistics management, he recognizes that not everyone is as familiar with the industry.

“This field goes down so many different paths, so it’s important to know where to start and not just assume that every role in supply chain is the same,” he advised. Those seeking to launch a career in the industry should “be aggressive and intentional about what career field you want to pursue in supply chain management.”

Find More Resources About Supply Chain

For more details about applying for a MHEFI or RMI scholarship, visit the Student Eligibility information site. Additional resources about careers in supply chain, material handling, and logistics are available at MHI.org, including the new season of the Jobs of Tomorrow docuseries.