Start a supply Chain Program
Build the next generation of supply chain professionals
A turnkey framework for launching an industry-recognized logistics and supply chain program at your high school — credentials, equipment access, and employer connections included.
Why Supply Chain
A career pathway students can start before graduation
Supply chain is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the U.S. economy. Students who earn industry certifications in high school can enter the workforce immediately — or continue into post-secondary programs with a significant head start.
Stackable credentials
Students build a portable portfolio of industry-recognized certifications that employers actively hire for — from day one after graduation.
Employer demand is real
Local manufacturers, distributors, and third-party logistics firms consistently report difficulty filling warehouse and operations roles.
Clear upward mobility
Entry-level logistics leads to operations management, procurement, and supply chain analyst roles — many paying $60K–$100K+ within a few years.
CTE credit-eligible
This program aligns with Career & Technical Education frameworks and may qualify for Perkins V funding in your state.
Student Credentials
Industry certifications your students will earn
Every certification below is recognized by employers and can be earned during high school. Schools may offer all or a subset depending on available equipment, facilities, and instructor qualifications.
OSHA 10
The foundational workplace safety credential, required or preferred by virtually every logistics and manufacturing employer. Students learn hazard recognition, PPE, emergency action plans, and workers' rights. Wallet card issued by OSHA-authorized instructors — valid for life.
CLTA
The entry-level steppingstone before the CLT. Covers workplace safety, material handling, quality basics, and communications. Ideal for students in their first year of a logistics pathway — builds foundational vocabulary and industry readiness.
CLT
Issued by the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council, the CLT covers supply chain fundamentals: inventory management, shipping and receiving, material handling, and warehouse operations. A nationally portable credential recognized across sectors.
Forklift Operator
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 requires that operators be trained and evaluated before operating forklifts. High school programs can deliver this training using VR simulators and in-person equipment. Training records travel with students to their first employer.
Six Sigma White Belt
Introduces students to process improvement, waste reduction, and data-driven problem solving. White Belt is accessible to high schoolers; Yellow Belt adds DMAIC methodology. These credentials signal analytical thinking to employers and set students apart in competitive applications.
CPR / First Aid
Many warehouse and distribution employers require or strongly prefer CPR-certified workers. Pairs naturally with the OSHA 10 unit on emergency action plans — can often be delivered in a single school day through a licensed trainer.
Class A CDL
The Class A CDL authorizes students to operate combination vehicles including tractor-trailers, flatbeds, and tanker trucks. Requirements include a DOT physical, passing the FMCSA knowledge exams (General Knowledge, Combination Vehicles, and any applicable endorsements), and a behind-the-wheel skills test covering pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
Students must hold a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) for a minimum of 14 days before taking the skills test. Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations require theory and behind-the-wheel training through an FMCSA-registered provider.
NGT Curriculum Companion Guide: Next Gen Trucking has developed a CDL Curriculum Companion Guide specifically designed to support high school programs delivering Class A CDL instruction — covering ELDT-aligned theory modules, skills test prep, and employer connection resources. Contact us to request your copy.
Getting Started
How to launch your program in one school year
Most schools go from initial inquiry to first enrolled students in a single academic year. Here's the typical path.
Talk to our team →Assess your starting point
Identify available space, existing CTE pathways, budget, and employer partners in your region. Complete our free School Readiness Checklist to see where you stand.
Choose your certification stack
Work with our curriculum team to select 2–4 credentials that fit your school's capacity. Most programs start with OSHA 10 + CLTA and add CLT or Six Sigma in Year 2.
Secure instructor qualifications
Identify which credentials require an authorized trainer vs. a credentialed teacher.
- OSHA 10: Outreach Trainer authorization required
- CLT/CLTA: MSSC-licensed instructor
- Forklift: Qualified evaluator on-site
Set up your learning environment
A dedicated classroom with basic material handling props is sufficient to start. Forklift-Simulator's VR units fit in the trunk of a car and set up in under five minutes — no physical equipment required.
Connect to local employers
Reach out to area warehouses, distributors, manufacturers, and 3PLs. Many will offer site visits, mock interviews, and part-time jobs for certified students. Next Gen Trucking can help make introductions.
Launch and recruit students
Market the program as a paid credential pathway. Emphasize job-ready outcomes. Programs with employer relationships consistently see strong enrollment.
Featured Partner
Bring VR forklift training to your classroom
Forklift-Simulator (FLS) brings immersive, hands-on VR training directly to CTE classrooms — meeting OSHA requirements without the cost, liability, or space of physical equipment. A PwC study found VR-trained learners finish training 4× faster than classroom learners and are 275% more confident applying what they learned.
- → Authentic Hyster-Yale or Crown OEM controls — students build real muscle memory
- → Fits in a car trunk, sets up in under 5 minutes — shareable across multiple campuses
- → Tracks 30+ validated OSHA rules with instant corrective feedback, no instructor bias
- → Built-in LMS with RFID tracking meets Perkins V WBL data-collection requirements
- → Perkins V, ESSA Title IV, and DOL RESTART grant-eligible
- → Education lease pricing available for qualifying schools
Let's Talk
Let's build your program together
Every school is different — different budgets, different facilities, different communities. That's why we don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach.
Our team will sit down with you, learn about your school, and help you design a supply chain program that works for your students and your resources. We're here to guide you every step of the way — from choosing the right certifications to connecting you with local employers.
Schedule a free 30-minute discovery call with our team. Fill out the form and we'll be in touch to find a time that works for you.
Schedule a Call →Get in Touch
Schedule your free discovery call
Common Questions
Frequently asked by administrators
Do students need to be 18 to participate in forklift training?
How much does it cost to start a program?
Can we start with just one or two certifications?
What qualifications does the instructor need?
Does the Forklift-Simulator meet OSHA and Perkins V requirements?
Is there employer demand in our area?
Ready to bring supply chain careers to your students?
Every great program starts with a conversation. Fill out the form and our team will reach out to schedule a free 30-minute discovery call — we'll learn about your school and help you figure out the best path forward.
Schedule a Discovery Call