Bison Transport’s generosity propels students to innovative new heights
Bison Transport’s $150,000 donation launches the Bison Supply Chain Innovator program, which will transform Supply Chain Management education with hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world experience for Mount Royal University students
The Bissett School of Business' Supply Chain Management (SCM) program has recently reached a new milestone, thanks to a generous donation of $150,000 from Bison Transport Inc. which established the “Bison Supply Chain Innovator,” a vital program that focuses wholly on work-integrated learning opportunities.
The Bison Supply Chain Innovator initiative represents an advancement in SCM education. By connecting MRU’s SCM students with Bison Transport’s leadership in Calgary, the program offers invaluable hands-on experience and professional mentorship. Students are not just learning from textbooks; they are actively engaging in real-world projects, tackling complex transportation-related challenges, and gaining industry-relevant skills in a supportive environment.
Through this program, students receive direct, meaningful exposure to the logistics sector. Opportunities such as co-op internships, practicum placements, and data-driven analysis of operational issues allow them to apply their classroom knowledge in practical settings. This real-world engagement fosters a deep understanding of the industry and equips students with the tools to develop innovative solutions for current and future challenges.
The mentorship provided by seasoned professionals at Bison Transport further enriches the students’ experience. This interaction not only deepens their understanding of industry practices but also helps them build a robust professional network before they graduate and enter the workforce. The initiative is also committed to fostering equity, diversity and inclusion practices─ offering opportunities for underrepresented groups including women, Indigenous individuals, and people of color.
In addition to benefiting students, the initiative encourages students and faculty members to conduct research into innovative approaches to industry challenges. This work not only contributes to advancing SCM practices but also supports Bison in making evidence-based business decisions.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Doug Romanuk (Sr. Vice President, Sales & Emerging Markets) as well as to Rob Penner (former CEO) and the new interim CEO, Mike Ludwick, whose support throughout various stages of designing the program has been instrumental in making the Bison Supply Chain Innovator a reality. This program is a testament to Bison's commitment to support innovation and talent-development in the logistics sector, which contributes over 4% to Canada's GDP. We deeply appreciate their contributions and leadership, which have significantly advanced the collaboration between MRU and Bison. Their support not only enhances the educational experience of our students but also contributes to the continuous improvement and innovation within the logistics sector, thereby empowering and elevating the Canadian economy,” says Associate Professor in the department of Supply Chain Management, Rajbir Bhatti, PhD
Bison Transport’s support of Mount Royal Univeristy’s SCM students is a shining example of how industry investment in education can enhance programs and help learners reach new heights.