Hands-on learning takes flight: CMU logistics students soar to first place at case competition

When Central Michigan University logistics students stepped into Collins Aerospace headquarters in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, they brought more than a case solution — they brought confidence, preparation and CMU pride.

After two weeks of analysis and strategy development, the CMU team of Savana Stewart, Austin Benchley, Zack Parker and Chester Gouin earned first place at the Collins Aerospace Supply Chain Case Competition, outperforming universities from across the Midwest, including Kansas State and the University of Northern Iowa.

“It was an incredible feeling,” said Savana Stewart, a senior majoring in logistics and marketing from Jackson, Mich. “We were so proud and excited — all of the late nights, discussions and effort we put into our presentation had paid off. It was a great moment of validation for all the hard work our team put in.”

From classroom to competition floor

Central Michigan University was first invited to participate in the Collins Aerospace competition in 2023, building on its strong record at the Wayne State/General Motors Supply Chain Case Competition. After scheduling conflicts in 2024, CMU returned this year — and made a statement.

“This problem Collins Aerospace used in the case was an actual business challenge they were experiencing,” said Evelyn Smith, faculty advisor for the team. “Students could ask questions during a window of time, but responses were intentionally vague. There are no right or wrong answers — just some solutions that are better than others. Students had to make assumptions, document their approach and communicate their recommendations effectively.”

The case centered on a sole supplier going out of business, requiring teams to identify alternative sourcing strategies and build a comprehensive risk mitigation plan.

“We approached it by analyzing both the short-term and long-term supply chain impacts,” Stewart said. “Our goal was to balance financial, operational and relationship factors to create a sustainable solution for Collins Aerospace.”

Preparation, persistence and pivoting

In the two weeks leading up to the event, students dedicated their evenings and weekends to research, modeling and practice sessions — all outside of class.

“This isn’t tied to any specific course,” Smith said. “Students have to find time on their own to read, research, collaborate and refine their presentation. Time management is key. They practiced relentlessly once the presentation was complete.”

When one teammate, senior Chester Gouin, was unable to attend due to a family funeral, the group regrouped and adjusted their delivery.

“It’s important that every team member understands the full solution,” Smith said. “That preparation allowed them to pivot seamlessly and still perform at a high level.”

Confidence under pressure

After presenting to Collins Aerospace’s panel of supply chain experts, the team faced a surprise twist on the second day — a new set of constraints that required them to quickly revise their recommendations.

“The initial case was actually more challenging for me,” Stewart said. “We were all a bit nervous and wanted to make a strong first impression. Once we got through that round, we found our rhythm and felt more confident tackling the Friday twist.”

Despite the intensity, Stewart said the experience was invaluable. “It was nerve-racking at first because the judges have such deep industry knowledge,” she said. “But getting direct feedback from professionals who deal with these challenges every day gave us insight into how supply chain decisions are made in the real world.”

Standing out among the best

According to Smith, CMU’s strong record in presentation-based learning gave the team an edge.

“Our CBA students are prepared to present confidently in front of judges,” she said. “Our classroom presentations, iCore projects, LUCC logistics competition and marketing sales competitions all build those skills. That experience showed.”

Industry professionals noticed. “I was told our students were very well prepared and professional,” Smith said. “Their speaking and confidence on stage stood out.”

Lessons in leadership and mentorship

For Stewart, the competition reinforced the importance of communication and collaboration under pressure.

“Everyone on the team brought different strengths, and learning how to blend those perspectives into one cohesive solution was key,” she said. “It taught me a lot about leading through support — knowing when to step up and when to listen.”

Smith’s guidance extended far beyond logistics strategy. During the event, she received the Advisor Impact Award, an honor based on student nominations.

“It is a tremendous honor to have students express that my work and dedication make a difference in their experience here at CMU,” Smith said. “I’m humbled to be acknowledged.”

Fired up for what’s next

The win not only strengthened CMU’s relationship with RTX, Collins Aerospace’s parent company, but also created new opportunities for students.

“Our students have received internship and full-time opportunities that wouldn’t have been possible without this competition,” Smith said. “We’ll continue to participate, and hopefully RTX will recruit more CMU students in the future as a result.”

For Stewart, the experience confirmed her career goals.

“It definitely strengthened my interest in supply chain management, especially within aerospace,” she said. “The case gave me a deeper understanding of the complexities companies face and how effective supply chain strategy drives success.”

As the team looks ahead to graduation and new opportunities, Smith is already preparing for what’s next.

“I’m very proud of the work our students put in and how they represented Central Michigan University with professionalism and skill,” she said. “They’ve proven that CMU students can compete — and win — on a national stage.”

Because at Central Michigan University, learning doesn’t stop in the classroom — it takes flight.