Supply Chain
Management in the 21st century is inclusive of increasing exposure
to innovation and manufacturing processes. This exposure is to be given to
children and communities who are not likely to gain this experience otherwise. Kitchen-Table
Industrialists (The New York Times, 2011) explains how various technological
companies maintain this idea and work towards making exposure to technology a
reality.
As the title
states, taken from a popular Whitney Houston song, “I believe the children are
the future, teach them well and let them lead the way.” Investing in exposing
children to technology and innovation will give America a jump-start on keeping
up with manufacturing trends. Currently, children in low-income families do not
have access to Internet. Specifically, only 33% of children in homes with an
income of $15,000 own computers.[1]
The National Center for Children in Poverty states that 22% of ALL children live in families
with incomes below the federal poverty level ($23,550).[2]
As we become a much more technological integrated society, stemming from our
workforce, many children are at risk of being left behind.
Today, one of
the biggest priorities for America is remaining on top of the manufacturing
industry through innovative means. However, it is noted that Germany and China
tend to have more supportive environments for incubating manufacturing
companies at every stage[3].
In 2009, the White House began to remedy this with the creation of the Office
of Social Innovation and Civic Participation. The stated approach of this
department is, “The Office of Social Innovation and Civic
Participation is focused on developing policies and programs to accelerate
economic recovery and create stronger communities. We do this by harnessing
human capital and facilitating financial capital.[4]”
I believe harnessing human capital begins with youth education and exposure.
I will profile a
variety of technology-based companies whose sole intention is to get technology
into the hands of children and those who may be technologically challenged.
Here goes. . .
LittleBits
Electronics
LittleBits
Electronics provides kits that enable individuals to prototype and learn with
electronics. “It’s an ever-growing library of electronic modules that snap
together with magnets so you can invent anything.[5]”
Tech4Kids
Inc.
The stated mission
is to create innovative products that put smiles
on the faces of children while providing a quality business opportunity for our
customers, team and partners. To achieve this Tech4Kids infuses classic
play with exciting brands and fresh innovation.[6]
Black Girls
CODE
Black Girls CODE is a non-profit organization
with a focus on introducing girls (ages 7-17) of color to technology and
creating the next generation of tech leaders and creators. Currently there
are over 2,500 students with 7 domestic chapters and 1 international chapter in
Johannesburg, South Africa. [7]
Computers4kids
Strives to
improve low-income youth’s computer and learning skills through caring
mentorship, structured training, a vibrant learning environment, and access to
a computer at home. The program uses computers as a catalyst for youth to
challenge themselves, become engages in their own learning, and realized
greater possibilities academically, professionally, and for their community. [8]
Well-known companies
that should be mentioned[9]
Best Buy
Provides funds
for schools to bring interactive technology into the classroom. So far Best Buy
has donated over $13 Million through the Best Buy Teach Awards
Apple Inc.
Created a
program called 1 to 1 that works with grades K-12 to provide each student with
access to wireless laptop for school and home.
AT&T
Committed $1.8
billion to philanthropic programs supporting education: community development;
the arts, health and human services, and technology access in communities
across the country.
Finally, I wish these organizations much success. Additionally, I hope my
classmates take the time to invest in these organizations or develop human
capital centered firms of their own. With the understanding of the importance
of technology and America’s desire for innovative improvement for supply chain
networks, how can we create more incentives, policy based or otherwise, for
larger companies to invest in youth education and technological exposure?
good one friend. I know it has to be good if you’re reviewing it!
ReplyDeleteBeen a long time my friend, glad to see you’re doing well!
Dental surgery Meadowbank
Various aspects of reverse logistics should be built into product design phase like possibility of reuse of the product or its components and efficient uses of resources and energy.
ReplyDeleteRepair and Reverse Logistics|Integrated Logistics Service Provider