Recently, I received a phone call from a CSCMP member in Europe who was looking to speak to someone who is well-versed in rail transportation. Because CSCMP has thousands of members all over the world with expertise in the many functions of supply chain management, I was able to immediately connect this person to the perfect professional contact.

That connection, which turned out to be beneficial for both parties, provided yet another example of the tremendous value and power of one of the most important benefits a CSCMP membership offers you: access to an exclusive, global network of supply chain experts.

When you consider the challenging times we're living and working in, it's clear that being part of a global network of peers is more critical today than ever. As a CSCMP member, you're able to connect to a world-wide community of supply chain practitioners who can provide you with advice, expertise, or a career opportunity. They will warmly welcome you to their companies and to their countries, and they will treat you like family. Because you are! When you become a member of CSCMP, you become a member of the global family of supply chain managers.

Supply chain practitioners must constantly pursue professional growth. One of the best ways to accelerate and assure this growth is by connecting and interfacing with a network of peers. The people-to-people connections we create today will ensure our success tomorrow as we gain new insights and receive valuable guidance from the engaged and passionate professionals who belong to CSCMP. Our members are individuals you can turn to for help and advice at any time; they will support you in your triumphs and sustain you in your trials.

The CSCMP network has long been a cornerstone of my career. These are people I can call on day or night and who will help me find answers to my questions, offer timely advice, or just listen. All the presentations and educational sessions in the world cannot replace the value of people who care about you, both personally and professionally, and who will always be there for you when you need them.

Professional networking has always been important. What is different today is that things are changing so rapidly and unpredictably that it's crucial to be able to tap into a network of peers to find out what others are doing in their companies and to share much needed business savvy. This "knowledge network" is a valuable resource for everyone involved, and it will only expand as you get more involved.

CSCMP is your best route to making these critical connections, at any level and anywhere in the world.