NEW CUMBERLAND, Pa. –
Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Anniston, Alabama, and Jacksonville State University, located in Jacksonville, Alabama, have launched a series of collaborative initiatives aimed at enhancing operational readiness and creating a future talent pipeline.
Leadership from DLA Distribution Anniston, Alabama, met with faculty and prospective student interns from JSU’s College of Business and Industry to develop the partnership Feb. 10. The collaboration will focus on three main areas: capstone projects for students, a leadership development program and a series of guest lectures and student engagement events.
As part of the initiative, a group from JSU’s College of Business and Industry visited DLA Distribution Anniston for a tour of the facility. The distribution center is one of DLA Distribution’s 24 global distribution centers that support the War Department.
Army Lt. Col. Brandon Ebel, commander, DLA Distribution Anniston, hosted the group and provided insight into the distribution center’s Warehouse Management System, data analysis capabilities and scale of operations.
“This collaboration is about creating opportunities that strengthen our workforce and give students a pathway to meaningful careers,” Ebel said.
Under the new program, JSU students will work with DLA Distribution Anniston production managers and analysts to assess operational trends and create data-driven plans for process improvement.
A JSU attendee said that observing the operation firsthand provided insight into how students can contribute in meaningful ways.
According to JSU faculty, the partnership gives students valuable real-world experience. Faculty also said that students are eager to apply what they have learned and that the partnership allows them to contribute to something bigger than themselves.