Logistics is often one of the least visible parts of military operations, but it keeps everything else moving. For Ben McGrath, a Class of 2026 alum of the MIT Supply Chain Management (SCM) master's program, that work was the foundation for his career.
"The military is like one big supply chain," McGrath says. "There's a constant flow of resources, whether it's people, equipment, and parts, and usually across the world, in different environments. That required a lot of adaptability and making decisions with not all the answers."
His experience in making decisions under uncertainty is one he carried into the MIT SCM program. McGrath says his service gave him a head start in the classroom and beyond. "I was able to build upon what I learned in the Navy and get those technical and analytical skills to be able to succeed in industry," he says. "The cohort was wonderful. There's so many talented people here, and it was just a really great experience to learn from those guys."
The military's connection to supply chain runs deep. MIT CTL executive director Chris Caplice has noted that "logistics started as a military function," and that "the idea of getting supplies, ammunition, food, all the material you need to the front line was the core of logistics, and really supply chain came out of that." McGrath's path shows how that heritage continues today, as veterans bring operational experience into civilian supply chain careers.
For veterans considering graduate study in supply chain management, McGrath offers two pieces of advice. First, don't underestimate what you already bring. "Your experience is more valuable than you think," he says. "You bring a lot to the table, and don't cut yourself short." Second, lean on the community. "Reach out to fellow alumni," he says. "We're here to help you in any way we can to help you on your journey through the program."
This Veterans Day, MIT SCM thanks McGrath and all veterans whose service continues to shape the field of supply chain management.
