The 6th Wave of Technology & Innovation

Although many feel that we are in the 5^th wave of innovation and technology, I feel that we have already moved past that and we are entering into a 6^th wave of innovation and technology.  This 6^th wave of innovation and technology is all about the reduction of waste and how people can do more with fewer resources.  There are clearly more environmentally sound technologies being developed to address the increasing shortage of rare materials on the planet.  Although some feel that the planet has an infinite wealth of resources, the reality is that the resources on the planet are quite finite and are being used up faster than ever before. 

According to Popular Science, Tesla managed 200,000 pre-orders for the Model 3 in 24 hours. Tesla has 7.5 billion dollars in sales on a product that has not been fully developed yet.  There are already 7.5 billion reasons that we are already moving towards a 6^th technology innovation wave where people want more done with renewable resources.  The population of the planet is becoming more cognizant of the challenges regarding resources, and they want to make a difference.  Being environmental is no longer a fad, it is rapidly becoming a business imperative.  The UN 2015 Paris Agreement signatory nations are already taking action to address climate change.

Organizations are moving towards zero waste.  In fact, in some nations, waste has become illegal.  France has recently passed a law requiring that grocery stores not be allowed to throw away food (waste).  Grocery stores in France are required to donate food to eliminate waste.  And France is not along as several other European nations are actively considering similar legislation.

These examples clearly highlight that not only is technology changing to harness greener technologies, but society is changing to address the wasteful habits that people have developed over time.  There is no doubt that more laws and technologies will emerge and change how we view global resources.  One thing is clear, is that society has already moved to become greener, and it is clear that the 6^th wave is already upon us.

Progressive Partnerships

On May 12, 2016, the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) honored American Public University (APUS) by recognizing their virtual APICS chapter with a plaque.  The plaque ceremony formally recognizes the continuous industry partnership between APICS and the APUS Transportation & Logistics and Reverse Logistics programs.  The plaque was presented by the APICS President of the Washington DC chapter, David Rega, as a sign of appreciation of the cooperation between the two organizations.  

In attendance at the presentation was Dr. Chad Patrizi, Dean, School of Business for APUS (left), David Rega, APICS President, Washington DC chapter (center) and Dr. Stacey Little, Program Director, Transportation & Logistics Management for APUS and Faculty Advisor for the APICS virtual chapter (right).

The plaque presentation came after a successful Industry Advisory Council (IAC) meeting, whose theme was Progressive Partnerships.  The APUS School of Business Industry Advisory Council (IAC) was formed in 2004 to provide forums for business professionals and industry leaders to assist school programs to accomplish their educational mission.  This year’s IAC gathered input from over 40 business professionals to better understand the needs of business and what skills that APUS graduates need to be successful in their chosen fields.