This course introduces students to industrial engineering and provides students with foundational tools used in the profession. The course is intended to prepare students for their first co-op experience in industrial engineering by exposing them to tools and concepts that are often encountered during early co-op assignments. The course covers specific tools and their applications, including systems design and integration. The course uses a combination of lecture and laboratory activities to cover hands-on applications and problem-solving related to topics examined in lectures.

An introduction to optimization through mathematical programming and stochastic modeling techniques. Course topics include linear programming, and transportation and assignment algorithms. Special attention is placed on sensitivity analysis and the need of optimization in decision-making. The course is delivered through lectures and a weekly laboratory where students learn to use state-of-the-art software packages for modeling large discrete optimization problems.

A basic course in quantitative models on layout, material handling, and warehousing. Topics include product/process analysis, flow of materials, material handling systems, warehousing and layout design. A computer-aided layout design package is used.

Time value of money, methods of comparing alternatives, depreciation and depletion, income tax consideration and capital budgeting. Cannot be used as a professional elective for ISE majors. Course provides a foundation for engineers to effectively analyze engineering projects with respect to financial considerations.

One semester of paid work experience in industrial engineering.

Supply chain management is unique in that it is one of the oldest business activities and yet has been recently discovered as a potentially powerful source of competitive advantage. Supply chain system activities, such as planning production levels, forecasting demand, managing inventory, warehousing, transportation, and locating facilities have been performed since the start of commercial activity. It is difficult to visualize any product that could reach a customer without a consciously designed supply chain. Yet it is only recently that many firms have started focusing on supply chain management. There is a realization that no company can do any better than its supply chain and logistics systems. This becomes even more important given that product life cycles are shrinking and competition is intense. Logistics and supply chain management today represents a great challenge as well as a tremendous opportunity for most firms.

This course discusses several strategic, tactical, and operational concepts used in improving the distribution of goods and services by companies worldwide. The course emphasis is on understanding when and how these concepts are applied, as well as on using mathematical programming and optimization methods for their adequate implementation.