ISM-Greater Grand Rapids, Inc.

A Chapter of the Institute for Supply Management working together to advance the profession of supply management.

Greater Grand Rapids Leading Supply Chain Management Professionals 

ISM—Greater Grand Rapids, Inc. is a not-for-profit, dynamic association of procurement and supply management professionals providing continuing education in the Greater Grand Rapids region.

Elevate Your Career

A chapter of Institute for Supply Management® (ISM®), ISM—Greater Grand Rapids, Inc. was incorporated in 1919, making us one of the oldest ISM chapters in the nation. Our membership is comprised of professionals in both the private and public sectors, representing more than 100 employers throughout the region.

 

Upcoming Events

November

18

2025

MEMBER WEBINAR
Member Only

Accelerating AI in Industry: From Machine Learning to Agentic Intelligence

Explore the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence and its transformative impact across industries. This webinar will delve into the progression from traditional machine learning to generative AI and the emerging frontier of agentic AI—autonomous systems capable of goal-directed behavior. Learn how these technologies are reshaping operations, decision-making, and innovation.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Understand the distinctions between machine learning, generative AI, and agentic AI.
  2. Evaluate the strategic implications of adopting advanced AI systems.
  3. Explore future trends and ethical considerations in autonomous AI deployment.
Online

November

20

2025

MEMBER WEBINAR
Member Only

Member Orientation

This webinar provides knowledge regarding the many benefits that come with being a part of the ISM community. Join us and learn about the essential tools, vibrant community, and exceptional learning that enhances your professional development. You'll also gain insight into the array of programs, services, and resources that are available to you through your membership.

December

02

2025

Chapter Meeting

ISM-Greater Grand Rapids: Gordon Food Service Distribution Center Tour

Join us for a tour of the Gordon Food Service Distribution Center. Closed-toe shoes are required, and you are encouraged to dress warmly as we are touring the cooler and freezer. No video or photography is allowed during the tour.

Location
4900 Clay Ave SW
Grand Rapids, MI 49548

Additional Information

Access Clay Ave from either 44th St or 54th St. Park due south of the tall building in the employee lot (north of Gordon Store at the corner of Clay and 50th St). Proceed to the building using the crosswalk to the building entrance.

Join us for the additional tour after this event at the Gezon Office. Click here to register.

Sponsor: 270 ISM—Greater Grand Rapids, Inc.
Gordon Food Service Distribution Center

Highlights from the President

As a chapter of Institute for Supply Management® (ISM®), we have been providing educational opportunities for our membership since 1919.

They include eight Professional Dinner Meetings (PDM), tours, seminars, and webinars.  So take a look around.  If you are not a member and would like to try us out, please contact us:  ismggr@aol.com.

We provide over 35 hours of educational opportunities in addition to networking with your peers.  Again, reach out to us as we would like to assist you in growing in the profession.

Andrew Roman
Chapter President

Supply Management News & Reports

Fast, Easy Item Classification? It’s Possible with Machine Learning and Automation

November 01, 2025
Articles

Sponsored Content | Even when you get everything right, this inefficiency eats into profits. And if something goes wrong—if you don’t have the information to determine the correct code, for example, or if a single digit is entered incorrectly—the impact on your clients (and your business) can be significant. Items might be held up in customs, sellers could be subject to fines, and customers may be forced to pay additional duties. Fair or not, these outcomes can reflect poorly on you.

Read More

Join ISM

Your membership in ISM will provide a powerful path to stay connected, engaged, and up-to-date with everything happening in supply management. Serious procurement and supply chain professionals are dedicated to staying in the know about their profession and staying at the top of their game. An ISM membership will provide you with that and more.

More than 100 years of experience speaks for itself – ISM can help you succeed. It's our mission.

Become A Member

Unlock AI for Smarter Supply Chain Decisions

The AI Playbook for Supply Chain Professionals is your practical guide to using AI to drive smarter decisions. From supplier negotiations to risk management, this on-demand toolkit offers real-world examples, ready-to-use prompts, and expert strategies tailored to the profession. Learn how to apply AI confidently and effectively-no technical background required.

Access the Toolkit