Students from Texas A&M University–San Antonio’s College of Business attended the ProMat 2025 conference in Chicago, an immersive experience that introduced them to the future of supply chain, logistics, and marketing.
The trip offered students hands-on access to professional networking opportunities and the latest innovations at one of the largest material handling expos in North America.
Dr. Vipul Garg, assistant professor of supply chain management, led the group of A&M-San Antonio students, many of whom are majoring in supply chain management, management, or marketing. The trip was made possible through a competitive grant that provided each student with a $250 travel stipend and covered lodging costs through Material Handling Industry, the nation's largest material handling, logistics, and supply chain association.
“I strongly believe in the value of critical thinking and experiential learning,” Garg said. “Opportunities like ProMat allow students to step beyond the textbook and engage with cutting-edge innovations. Watching them connect classroom knowledge to real-world applications was incredibly rewarding.”
A concentration within the College of Business, supply chain management focuses on the efficient integration of suppliers, factories, warehouses, and retail outlets. The program helps prepare students for careers in designing and managing the activities that deliver products and services to customers.
Students selected for the trip submitted a one-page statement describing how the conference aligned with their academic and career goals. Once in Chicago, their itinerary included exploring the ProMat expo floor, testing advanced forklift simulators, attending industry talks and networking with professionals from across the country. The expo featured more than 1,200 manufacturing and supply chain solution providers, along with innovative new technologies and hands-on demonstrations.
For business administration student Alexis Perez, one highlight from the trip was operating a forklift simulator.
“Although I’ve never operated a real forklift, the simulation was remarkably realistic,” Perez said. “It gave me valuable insight into the practical side of operations, something you can’t fully understand in a classroom.”
Perez added that she was struck by the scale of the event, which far exceeded her expectations.
“It was remarkable to see so many industry-leading companies in one space,” she said. “The experience was both impressive and intellectually enriching.”
The ProMat expo also challenged students to think critically about how companies market their products and services. Perez noted that she paid close attention to the strategic use of color, booth design, and promotional materials. These were insights that deepened her understanding of marketing in a competitive industry.
Beyond technology, students walked away with a better grasp of the importance of professional networking. For many, casual conversations at exhibitor booths offered a glimpse into potential career paths and the inner workings of global supply chains.
“Engaging in professional discussions with company representatives had a profound impact on how I view my future career,” Perez said. “They emphasized how important it is to build a network and stay visible in your field.”
Garg credited the support of colleagues across the University as well as funding assistance from the Center for Academic Innovation and the Division of Student Affairs for making the experience possible.
“This was our University’s first time participating in ProMat, which annually attracts over 100 universities nationwide,” Garg said. “It won’t be the last. These immersive experiences are transformative for both educators and students.”
Perez echoed that sentiment, encouraging other students to take advantage of similar opportunities.
“One lesson I think every business student should hear is to seize opportunities like this,” she said. “They broaden your perspective, strengthen your resume and give you the confidence to pursue your goals.”