ThomasNet^® and Institute for Supply Management^® (ISM^®) encouraged supply chain professionals nationwide to take a step toward building their industry’s future by participating in their 2nd annual “30 Under 30 Rising Supply Chain Stars” Recognition Program.

Based on the tremendous success of last year’s program, the two sponsors are anticipating a high number of submissions and urging nominators to submit one or more nominations before the July 31, 2015 deadline.

The program’s inaugural winners, spotlighted during ISM’s centennial conference, are achieving far beyond their years of experience. They are delivering excellent performance for their respective companies and evangelizing supply chain management to other young professionals.

“This program has made me much more aware of the breadth of disciplines and industries supply chain impacts, and opened my eyes to ways I can develop my professional career though learning opportunities,” said Wesley Whitney, Sourcing Specialist, Enterprise Products, Houston, who is among the first rising stars.

Last year ThomasNet and ISM launched this initiative to address the “perfect talent storm” facing the industry. The Baby Boomers who “dominate” the profession are getting ready to retire, leaving more jobs than people to fill them. This is happening just as Millennials become the largest generation in the U.S. workforce. By spotlighting young superstars, ISM and ThomasNet are hoping to inspire other Millennials to choose a career in supply chain management.

“The ‘30 Under 30’ Program has been instrumental in shaping the narrative for future generations about the appeal and value of a career in Supply Chain. The award brings a degree of validation and a ‘cool factor’ to supply chain management, and it shows a commitment to captivating the kind of talent our industry needs to succeed,” added Mr. Whitney.

About the “30 Under 30 Rising Supply Chain Stars” Recognition Program

ThomasNet and ISM recognize 30 individuals who are 30 or younger, and whose initiative, collaboration, innovation and/or leadership are already bolstering the profession. Winners will receive a free one-year ISM membership, where they can take advantage of educational and networking programs. One “megawatt” professional from the second group, along with their nominator will also receive an all-expense paid trip to ISM’s 2016 conference to be held May 16-18 in Indianapolis.

Individuals can nominate deserving young professionals by going to http://30under30.thomasnet.com/nominate/. The deadline is July 31, 2015. Self-nominations are also encouraged. All nominees must be 30 or younger as of December 31, 2015 and be from the U.S. or Canada.