Podcast Summary: Supply Chain Now – The Now Generation: Perspectives on AI, Energy, and Ethical Supply Chains (February 16, 2026)

Episode Overview

This dynamic episode of Supply Chain Now spotlights the next generation of supply chain leaders, featuring a lively panel from Texas Christian University (TCU): Dr. Morgan Swink (Professor and Executive Director, Center for Supply Chain Innovation), and senior undergraduates Ava Scotchy, Joshua Ahn, and Court Comer. Hosted by Scott Lewton, the episode explores today’s key supply chain issues — from the real-world impacts of AI and energy consumption, to the complexities of ethical sourcing, sustainability, and navigating global supply chains. The conversation blends professional insights, personal journeys, and practical advice on preparing for impactful supply chain careers.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. AI, Energy, and Rising Costs for Ratepayers

• AI’s impact on supply chains and domestic infrastructure: Court raises concerns about data centers driving up local electricity rates — a rarely discussed but significant societal impact.

• Quote:

  "When your electricity bill is $300 a month because there's a data center down the street, you won't really put two and two together. But it's a huge problem..." — Court Comer [00:00]

• Broader Context: Dr. Swink and Court discuss Texas' unique energy grid and the emerging need for sustainable energy sources (like modular nuclear reactors) to offset rising power demands from AI infrastructure.

2. Reverse Logistics and Returns Management

• Ava spotlights emerging practices in returns: Companies are now tracking personal return rates, considering fees for high-frequency returners.

• Quote:

  "They are starting to calculate their customers personal return rates... if you return too much you might get some fees added on." — Ava Scotchy [14:50]

• Dr. Swink’s Perspective: The scale and cost of reverse logistics in e-commerce is massive, with 50-60% return rates. Automation and rare earth recovery from e-waste surface as evolving frontiers.

3. Sustainability and Ethics in Global Supply Chains

• Joshua emphasizes the "human cost":

  "When a lot of these supply chains go global... it's hard to keep track, especially once you get into third or fourth level suppliers." — Joshua Ahn [17:48]

• Modern Slavery & Labor Rights: The group highlights the prevalence of labor abuses in lower tiers of global supply chains; TCU’s new certificate for sustainable business directly addresses these challenges.

• Quote, Dr. Swink:

  "The social issues are huge... along with environmental issues, we have to keep track of and make sense of when we can." [19:14]

4. Careers, Aspirations & Industry Change

• Ava: Focused on food & beverage supply, ensuring reliable access to quality food, with interests in aerospace and network planning.

• Joshua: Drawn to the global, diverse nature of supply chain roles. Aspires to champion greater transparency and sustainability.

• Court: Oil and gas enthusiast with a family ranching background; wants to reframe public perceptions and highlight advances in energy sustainability.

• Dr. Swink: Encourages students to pursue curiosity and adaptability, lauding the diversity and opportunity within supply chain careers.

• Quote:

  "[Supply chain] is the best team sport in the world." — Scott Lewton [29:37]

5. What Makes TCU Supply Chain Special

• High-Touch Faculty: All panelists praise TCU’s dedicated professors and personalized mentorship.
• Practical, Experiential Learning: Use of capstone projects, real-world case competitions, and extensive industry networking.
• Industry Connections: Strong ties to DFW businesses and constant curriculum updates reflecting current challenges (like tariffs).
• Quote:

  "They equip you to be able to solve stuff with limited instructions... that's, you know, real advice that has helped me tremendously already and I'm still in college." — Court Comer [34:24]

• Quote:

  "We can do a lot of these tours and special events... Being in Dallas Fort Worth is also amazing." — Dr. Swink [40:50]

6. Professional Development & Networking

• Trade Shows: Joshua attended the NRF “Big Show” (Retail’s largest trade show), gaining exposure to leading innovations and networking with industry professionals.
• Internships and Site Visits: Extensive engagement through tours (Amazon, Shoppa’s, Cintas), directly facilitating career growth.

Notable Quotes & Moments (with Timestamps)

• On AI and Data Centers:

  • “AI is already changing supply chains globally. ...But the impact it’ll have on the domestic landscape, price of electricity ...will be passed to us.” — Court Comer [00:00]

• On Reverse Logistics:

  • “I got an email a few weeks ago ...they are starting to calculate their customers personal return rates.” — Ava Scotchy [14:50]

• On Sustainability Challenges:

  • “…now with a lot of these supply chains going global... it’s hard to keep track, especially in tertiary or even fourth level suppliers.” — Joshua Ahn [17:48]

• On Educational Approach:

  • “The curriculum is designed to put you in the workplace position, open ended, very much figured out yourself... much like life.” — Court Comer [34:24]

  • “A lot of the curriculum is very innovative... always being updated.” — Joshua Ahn [37:02]

  • “The center for Supply Chain offers so many different events that students can attend... site visits, speakers, and invaluable networking.” — Ava Scotchy [38:55]

• Capstone Project Experience:

  • “They’re contracting us to help them plan their growth plan... not only is it real world experience ...but also an opportunity to recruit, refine your skills, maybe get a job offer.” — Court Comer [42:30]

• Inspiration for Education:

  • “…to be able to be a part of that is very gratifying and a great part of my career...” — Dr. Morgan Swink [47:54]

Important Segments & Timestamps

• TCU Program Overview and Panel Introductions: [01:50–05:25]
• Students’ Backgrounds and Passions: [06:07–13:22]
• Reverse Logistics Discussion: [14:50–17:17]
• Sustainability and Human Rights in Supply Chains: [17:48–20:38]
• AI, Energy, Data Centers Impact: [20:38–23:23]
• Career Aspirations / Impactful Change: [24:19–33:36]
• What Makes TCU Unique: [34:24–43:15]
• Capstone & Networking Value: [42:27–43:15]
• Trade Shows & Industry Engagement: [43:15–47:13]
• Faculty Reflections on Mentorship: [47:54–49:28]
• Wrap-Up, Contact Information: [49:43–51:26]

Overall Tone & Takeaways

The discussion is upbeat, practical, and honest, blending deep dives into industry challenges with personal stories and clear appreciation for mentorship and community. The panel’s voices come through as passionate, future-focused, and eager to make a difference.

Key Takeaways:

• The “now generation” of supply chain leaders are actively grappling with real-time issues such as AI-induced energy costs, ethical sourcing, and reverse logistics.
• Personalized education, strong industry relationships, and practical experience (capstones, internships, trade shows) are critical in preparing new professionals.
• Supply chain careers offer a broad, flexible path for passionate problem-solvers and curious minds.
• There’s urgent need for more visibility and ethical diligence deep in global supply chains—an area where this new generation is poised to make real impact.

Contact & Resources

• LinkedIn: Ava Scotchy, Joshua J. Ahn, Court Comer, Dr. Morgan Swink
• TCU Center for Supply Chain Innovation: Neely.tcu.edu (Just Google 'csci tcu')
• WISE Organization: Connect for student opportunities

Memorable Closing Challenge

“Take just one thing, do something with it, right? Deeds, not words. That’s how we’re going to keep transforming global supply chain and leave no one behind.” — Scott Lewton [51:40]

This episode offers a hopeful glimpse into the future of supply chain, led by inquisitive and empowered young professionals who blend technical savvy with a deep sense of ethical purpose.