Three Questions with Prathibha Rajashekhar

What aspects of supply chain management do you plan to focus on in your keynote address?

Walmart is experiencing what I would argue to be the largest supply transformation ever experienced by a retailer or logistics company. We’re navigating a significant digital and physical transformation that will improve the customer and associate experience while driving business results. I’m looking forward to sharing more about the automation, robotics, and intelligent systems we’re building as part of our transformation and how as a people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer, we’re navigating change while staying true to our culture and values.

Tell us of your efforts in Arkansas to interest more young women and students of various backgrounds into STEM educations and careers?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM occupations are expected to grow 10.8% between 2021-2031. That’s compared to only 4.9% growth in other areas. I believe we can inspire talent at all ages, whether that be a middle-schooler, a young-professional or even a 20-year associate looking for a new challenge. But doing so requires thoughtful mentorship and exposure to tools and trainings to build the necessary skills. We’re fortunate at Walmart to offer skills-based trainings to help associates grow in their current roles or even explore new ones. Through programs like Live Better U, Walmart will pay for associates to learn critical skills and create pathways for them to promote into in-demand STEM jobs within the company.

What knowledge do you hope to gain from gathering with industry leaders in Montreal?

My passion is chasing curiosity, and what better place to do that than at the IISE Annual Conference and Expo. I’m looking forward to being among innovative thinkers and up-and-comers to gather new ideas and be exposed to the best and brightest industrial and systems engineers.