SDCExec.com |

Raleigh, NC — February 13, 2007 — Graduate students from the National Defense University, Industrial College of the Armed Forces (ICAF) in Washington, DC, visited the Tompkins Associates Central Campus last week to strengthen their knowledge in manufacturing and supply chain strategies.

As part of the 2007 ICAF Industry Studies program, students are encouraged to examine all aspects of the US industrial base and develop a strategic perspective of the industry's role in supporting national security. Students also complete a comparative analysis of the U.S. manufacturing industry with select foreign countries.

"They attend a variety of manufacturing seminars throughout the country and abroad," said Joan White, ICAF Agency Chair and Professor of Acquisition. "This gives our students an opportunity to speak with an array of executives regarding their success strategies, challenges and constraints, and view manufacturing processes at the facilities."

Tompkins Associates Principal Bruce Tompkins, who taught the class, said he is excited to be part of this program. "Our consultants spend a lot of time educating and enhancing the processes of many leading supply chains and manufacturers. It seems natural to share that knowledge with other leaders of our communities, especially if it means advancements in industry processes, the national economy and security," he said.

At the conclusion of the four-hour course, the ICAF National Defense Class of 2007 presented Tompkins Associates and instructor Tompkins with an award for contributing to the university's Manufacturing Industry Study Program.

Students attending ICAF are senior-level U.S. military officers and civilian employees of the Department of Defense and other federal agencies who are developing the knowledge and experience for leadership positions in national security. Special emphasis is placed on material acquisition and joint logistics and their integration into the national security strategy.