AI in Supply Chain Management: From Theory to Practice
Learn how artificial intelligence is transforming supply chain operations through demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and predictive analytics. Hands-on workshop with real-world case studies.
Why This Workshop?
Artificial intelligence is no longer a buzzword—it’s transforming how supply chains operate worldwide. From predicting customer demand to optimizing warehouse layouts, AI delivers measurable results: reduced costs, faster deliveries, and happier customers.
But where do you start?
Most AI workshops are either too technical (overwhelming for business professionals) or too theoretical (lacking practical application). This workshop bridges the gap.
What Makes This Workshop Different?
🎯 Practical, Not Theoretical We focus on real-world applications you can implement immediately. Every concept ties directly to supply chain challenges you face.
🤝 Hands-On Learning You won’t just watch slides—you’ll build an actual demand forecasting model during the workshop. Leave with code you can adapt to your own data.
📊 Real Case Studies Learn from Dutch companies (large and small) that successfully implemented AI in their supply chains. Understand what worked, what didn’t, and why.
🌐 Hybrid Format Can’t travel to Zwolle? Join online! Our hybrid format ensures everyone gets the full workshop experience, regardless of location.
🎓 Beginner-Friendly No AI or coding background required. If you understand supply chains, you’ll understand this workshop.
Who Should NOT Attend?
To be transparent, this workshop might not be right for you if:
- You’re already building AI models regularly (this is an intro/intermediate level)
- You’re looking for deep technical training on neural network architectures
- You expect a sales pitch for specific AI software (we focus on concepts and open-source tools)
If you’re advanced in AI but new to supply chain applications, you’ll still find value in the case studies and industry-specific insights.
What Participants Say
“I came in skeptical about AI hype but left with practical tools I could use immediately. Within 2 weeks of the workshop, we implemented a simple forecasting model that improved our inventory accuracy by 18%.” — Sarah de Jong, Supply Chain Analyst, Dutch Retailer
“As a student, I appreciated how Christiaan made complex AI concepts accessible. The hands-on coding exercise was challenging but supportive, and now I feel confident exploring AI projects on my own.” — Tom Hendriks, International Business Student
“The networking was just as valuable as the content. I connected with 3 companies exploring similar AI challenges, and we’ve continued collaborating months later.” — Lisa Vermeer, Logistics Startup Founder
After the Workshop
Your learning doesn’t stop when the workshop ends:
📚 Access to Resources All participants receive a curated resource library including:
- Recommended readings and courses
- Open-source AI tools for supply chain
- Python code templates and datasets
- Industry reports and benchmarking data
💬 Community Access Join the Value Chain Hackers Discord server where workshop alumni continue discussions, share successes, and troubleshoot challenges together.
🎯 Follow-Up Sessions Quarterly “office hours” where you can bring your AI implementation questions and get expert guidance.
🤝 Collaboration Opportunities Connect with other companies and students for potential research projects, pilot programs, or hiring opportunities.
About the Facilitator
Christiaan Verhoef is a supply chain researcher and educator passionate about making AI accessible to non-technical professionals. With experience advising both Fortune 500 companies and startups on AI adoption, he brings a practical, no-nonsense approach to AI education.
Christiaan founded Value Chain Hackers to bridge academia and industry, and has facilitated workshops for 500+ supply chain professionals across Europe.
Ready to Transform Your Supply Chain with AI?
Spaces are limited to ensure quality interaction and personalized support. Register now to secure your spot!
Have questions? Email info@valuechainhackers.xyz or message us on Discord.
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What You'll Learn
Understand core AI/ML concepts relevant to supply chain management
Explore real-world applications: demand forecasting, route optimization, inventory management
Learn how to identify AI opportunities in your organization
Hands-on experience with AI tools (OpenAI, Claude, supply chain datasets)
Build a simple demand forecasting model during the workshop
Network with supply chain professionals and AI enthusiasts
Prerequisites
Before attending:
- • Basic understanding of supply chain operations (no AI experience needed!)
- • Laptop with internet connection (for hands-on exercises)
- • Optional: Pre-workshop reading materials will be shared via email
Who Should Attend
Supply Chain Professionals
Managers and analysts looking to leverage AI for operational improvements
Students & Researchers
Business, logistics, or data science students interested in AI applications
Entrepreneurs & Startups
Founders exploring AI-powered supply chain solutions
Event Agenda
Welcome & Introduction
Icebreaker activity, workshop overview, and learning objectives
Christiaan Verhoef
AI Fundamentals for Supply Chain
Key concepts: machine learning, neural networks, and their supply chain applications
Christiaan Verhoef
Case Study 1: Demand Forecasting at Scale
How a Dutch retailer reduced stockouts by 35% using AI-powered forecasting
Break & Networking
Coffee break and informal networking
Hands-On Exercise: Build Your First Forecasting Model
Guided tutorial using Python and real supply chain data
Workshop participants
Case Study 2: Route Optimization & Logistics
Practical examples from last-mile delivery and warehouse operations
Q&A and Implementation Roadmap
Your questions answered + creating your AI adoption roadmap
Wrap-Up & Next Steps
Workshop recap, resources, and continuation opportunities
Workshop Materials
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need programming experience?
No! While we'll do a hands-on coding exercise, it's fully guided and designed for beginners. If you've never coded before, you'll still learn valuable concepts. If you are experienced, you'll appreciate the practical applications.
Is this workshop online or in-person?
Hybrid! You can attend in-person at Windesheim Zwolle or join us online via Zoom. Online participants can fully participate in all activities including hands-on exercises.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes! All participants who complete the workshop will receive a digital certificate of completion from Value Chain Hackers.
What if I can't attend live?
We'll record the session and share it with all registered participants. However, we encourage live attendance for the best interactive experience and networking opportunities.
Is there a cost to attend?
This workshop is currently FREE for students and VCH community members. Professional participants pay €25 which includes coffee, materials, and post-workshop support.
Can I bring my team?
Absolutely! We offer group discounts for teams of 3+. Contact us at info@valuechainhackers.xyz for group registration.
Questions About This Event?
Have questions or need more information? We're here to help!