How to Learn Industrial Management: A Comprehensive Guide

For students passionate about the intersection of business and manufacturing, pursuing a career in industrial management can be both rewarding and lucrative. This field offers a unique blend of business principles and technical skills, preparing individuals to excel in roles such as industrial managers, production managers, and supply chain managers. This article explores the educational pathways, career opportunities, and essential skills required for a successful career in industrial management.

Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Management

Taking the first step in industrial management often begins with a Bachelor of Science or Master of Science in Industrial Management. Bachelor’s degree programs are designed to provide a foundational understanding of management theories, principles, and skillsets, preparing students for practical positions in industrial settings. These programs cover a broad range of subjects, including production processes, personnel management, and operational logistics.

Core Curriculum:

Statistics Managerial accounting Management principles Production systems Personnel management Operations management

This curriculum is tailored to equip students with a well-rounded understanding of business operations, along with a specific focus on production and operations. Students often gain insights into mathematics, statistics, and computer science, which are essential for understanding and optimizing industrial processes.

Popular Industries:

Electronics manufacturing Pharmaceuticals Automobile manufacturing Printing Plastics manufacturing Textiles manufacturing

Masters Degree in Industrial Management

Masters degree programs in industrial management are designed for professional management candidates who wish to enhance their knowledge and skills in order to advance their careers. These programs typically include advanced coursework in areas such as economic theories, statistics, and manufacturing systems. Some programs offer specializations in strategic industrial management, manufacturing systems engineering, technology, and industrial safety.

Core Curriculum:

Operations systems Economic principles Manufacturing systems Statistics Quality management Human factors in management

These programs often cater to professionals who have a baccalaureate degree in a related field, such as business management, and who have some professional experience in engineering and technology. The advanced nature of these programs provides a deeper dive into specialized areas, preparing students for leadership roles in various technical industries.

Career Options in Industrial Management

Graduates with a background in industrial management are well-suited for roles in a variety of technical and industrial industries. Some popular career options include:

Industrial managers Production managers Supply chain managers

These professionals can work in sectors such as:

Electronics manufacturing Pharmaceuticals Automobile manufacturing Printing Plastics manufacturing Textiles manufacturing

Employment Outlook and Salary Info

The employment landscape for industrial managers is promising. According to data from 2018, there were approximately 181,310 industrial production managers in the U.S. technology and manufacturing industries. The growth projection from 2018 to 2028 is positive, with an expected increase of 1%. California employs the highest percentage of industrial managers, while New Hampshire offers the highest average salary for this position. The median annual wage for industrial managers as of May 2018 was approximately $103,380.

Certification Options

Certification is not a mandatory requirement for industrial managers, but it can significantly enhance career prospects. The Association for Operations Management (APICS) offers certifications such as Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) and Certified Supply Chain Professionals (CSCP).

Conclusion: Pursuing a degree in industrial management equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in a variety of technical and industrial fields. Whether you choose to start with a bachelor’s degree or pursue a master’s program, the path to a fulfilling career in industrial management is well worth the investment.