Alro Steel shares industry insight at Alpha Iota Delta Speaker Series

On Monday, Sept. 22, nearly 40 students gathered in Grawn 119 for the Alpha Iota Delta Speaker Series featuring Jason Young from Alro Steel, a leading steel and metals distributor based in Clare, Michigan. The event, hosted by Alpha Iota Delta and open to all business students, provided attendees with the opportunity to hear directly from industry professionals and explore career opportunities beyond the classroom.

Young shared how Alro Steel manages operations, supply chains, and customer relationships, offering students a clear picture of the skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive environment. He emphasized adaptability, problem-solving, and relationship-building as keys to success.

“Students gained insight into how classroom concepts in management and supply chain are applied in practice,” said Chia-Ching Chou, chair of the Department of Management and faculty advisor to Alpha Iota Delta. “Companies like Alro Steel are shaping the next generation of leaders in the industry.”

For Chou, the real value of the series goes beyond industry insights. He sees these sessions as a bridge between academics and professional growth.

“I want students to see these events as opportunities to network, ask questions, and build confidence,” Chou said. “Every conversation with a professional is a step toward expanding your network and gaining a competitive edge in your career journey.”

The event underscored the mission of Alpha Iota Delta—an international honors society focused on decision sciences, information systems, and operations—to help students connect with leaders in the field while developing their own career readiness.

“These sessions show students how their coursework connects directly to opportunities after graduation,” Chou said. “They are not just listening; they are preparing for the future.”