The University of New Orleans, in partnership with The Beach at UNO, announces the launch of the Supply Chain, Operations, and Logistics (ScOL) Track as part of its forward-thinking Wind Scholars Program. One of the few programs of its kind in the nation, this track is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled supply chain professionals in the offshore wind energy sector through a progressive approach to academic and industry collaboration, building on UNO’s recently introduced Supply Chain, Operations, and Logistics concentration. 

Louisiana has been a critical player in the U.S. offshore wind industry since 2016, and with projections showing significant industry growth, the need for supply chain expertise has never been greater. The Department of Energy (DOE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory expects this could create up to 49,000 manufacturing and supplier jobs nationwide. These jobs will cover a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, shipbuilding, installation, commissioning, operations, and maintenance. An April 2024 report by Xodus highlights that Louisiana already has 15 companies servicing this growing industry and identifies over 175 companies with expertise capable of supporting this growing industry. The industry in Louisiana alone is expected to create 3,700 jobs by 2031, offering a promising future for graduates in the field of supply chain management.  

“Louisiana businesses and workers already have the know-how on energy development in the Gulf of Mexico. Offshore wind offers an opportunity to further leverage that expertise and the talented workforce to build a supply chain to support the growth of this new industry. We are glad to see programs focused on expanding supply chain and career opportunities for Louisiana students,” said Amanda Lefton, vice president of development east at RWE Offshore Wind Holdings.

The Wind Scholars Program ScOL Track offers a comprehensive blend of supply chain- and logistics-focused academic coursework, hands-on experience through the DOE’s Collegiate Wind Competition, and paid internships with offshore wind industry leaders. Selected students also receive a $5,000 scholarship from The Beach at UNO, making this program a direct contributor to workforce development and giving UNO students a competitive advantage in this high-demand field.

“As the offshore wind industry continues to grow in South Louisiana and the United States, the demand for skilled offshore energy professionals is more critical than ever,” said Cameron Poole, energy & innovation manager at Greater New Orleans, Inc. “This visionary program from UNO and the Wind Hub at UNO reflects our region's dedication to ensuring the local workforce is ready to lead in the clean energy economy by providing students with the skills, hands on experiences, and future opportunities necessary to thrive in this dynamic field.”

Program Highlights:

•    Three specialized courses in supply chain management
•    Active involvement in the DOE’s Collegiate Wind Competition
•    Independent study focusing on real-world applications
•    Paid internships with industry partners facilitated by The Beach at UNO

Applications for this first cohort are closed and will reopen in summer of 2025. Eligible students must be enrolled at UNO’s Henry Bernstein College of Business Administration and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. This program stands out as a leading example of how academic institutions can drive workforce readiness through innovative, industry-focused education.

“This cutting-edge program is a model of how academia and industry can collaborate to build a future-ready workforce. Our students not only earn a Bachelor of Science in Management with a concentration in Supply Chain, Operations, and Logistics (ScOL) from a rigorous AACSB accredited school, but at the same time gain real-world skills, engage with industry partners, and position themselves for successful careers in the dynamic wind energy sector,” said Pam Kennett-Hensel, dean and professor of marketing at the Henry Bernstein College of Business Administration at the University of New Orleans.

For more information, visit www.thebeachuno.org/wind-scholars-program or contact Shafin Khan, skhan@thebeachuno.org.