Supply Corps Training with Industry Agreement Signed with Starbucks

By Kathy Adams, Naval Supply Systems Command Corporate Communications

SEATTLE, Wash. (NNS) -- A Supply Corps Training with Industry (TWI) agreement was signed with Starbucks Coffee Company at a ceremony in Seattle, Wash., March 6.

The TWI program provides a unique opportunity for a Supply Corps officer to be part of and analyze the operations of top supply chain management companies. In addition to this new agreement, the Supply Corps has existing TWI agreements with The Home Depot and Federal Express.

"To train with a top performing company and get hands-on experience with their supply chain operation is a unique opportunity," said Rear Adm. Mark Heinrich, commander, Naval Supply Systems Command and chief of Supply Corps. "This TWI will provide an understanding of private industry business processes, leadership and cultures which enhances the working relationship with our industry partners."

The TWI program is designed to provide a skill set in best business procedures and practices not available through existing military or advanced civilian schooling programs.

"We are thrilled to be partnering with the U.S. Navy Supply Corps as part of their Training with Industry program," said Peter Gibbons, executive vice president, Starbucks Global Supply Chain Operations. "It's a tremendous opportunity for two world-class organizations to share best practices to improve our operations."

During this one-year assignment the Supply Corps officer will work in the field on real-world business issues, and will also get involved with quality and safety audits, contingency and strategic planning, and will gain a solid understanding of how the company manages their supply chain. The officer will have responsibility to share naval logistics knowledge with Starbucks and share gained knowledge with his or her command and the Supply Corps. Most importantly, he or she will be mentored by Starbucks executives.

Lt. Cmdr. Mark Bowmer is the first officer selected for the Starbucks TWI. He will begin his assignment in July.

The more than 3,700 active duty and Reserve officers of the Navy Supply Corps are responsible for supply and logistics support for the ships of the active fleet and hundreds of naval shore installations worldwide, providing combat capability through logistics.