How Rahim Elevates Learning in the Supply Chain and Logistics Program

With more than 25 years of global supply chain experience across 55 countries, advanced education that includes a bachelor’s degree in customs clearance and a master’s and PhD in marketing, and a teaching journey that began in childhood, Rahim brings an unparalleled depth of knowledge and passion to his role as an instructor in Anderson College’s Supply Chain and Logistics program. Since joining the college in 2023, he has become known for his engaging teaching style, his extraordinary real-world insight, and his ability to make even the most complex concepts accessible, relevant, and inspiring for students.

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Rahim to reflect on the experiences, global work, and teaching moments that have shaped the educator and professional he is today. This is his story, one that will undoubtedly encourage anyone reimagining their future or aspiring to thrive in the world of logistics and supply chain management.

Inspiring Excellence in Today’s Global Supply Chain and Logistics Program

Rahim’s path is one of passion, purpose, and global experience, offering students a rare window into the real world of modern supply chains.

A Global Career Rooted in a Lifelong Passion for Teaching

Rahim’s journey into education and global supply chain work began long before he earned advanced degrees or travelled the world. His love for teaching emerged at an age when most children are still learning multiplication tables.

“To be honest, I have liked teaching from when I was very young. I started teaching for the first time when I was 12 years old, teaching my friends and other people. It was a part of my life all the while I was in business and in global supply chains. Maybe 20%–30% of my time, I was always teaching.

“I like it, I enjoy it, and that’s my passion. I don’t look at it as a job. I tell my students sometimes, ‘You are not lucky because I am enjoying my time. And they are in the class listening to an instructor, but I am enjoying it. I joke with them, but most of the time, they are also enjoying it. We do not notice the passing of time—one hour, two hours, four hours even.

Teaching gives me a feeling that I am effective in my society, and that I am giving back.”

His expertise in supply chain came from decades of working in customs brokerage, global sourcing, logistics coordination, transportation, inventory management, and operational strategy. His experience spans continents and industries, giving him a uniquely broad and deeply practical understanding of global movement.

“I have visited many countries, many companies, and I share a lot of memories with my students. My classes are not hard. They are full of experience and memories from around the world. Students usually enjoy it. It’s not just theory; it’s real examples from different fields, different products, different environments.”

This combination of early passion for teaching and a lifetime of global supply chain expertise makes Rahim’s classroom unlike any other.

Teaching Philosophy: Respect, Communication, and Practical Learning

Rahim believes that the foundation of meaningful teaching is respect. His classroom environment is built intentionally to help adult learners feel valued, understood, and supported.

“My top priority is respect. Respect and communication with students are the keys to motivating them and encouraging them to listen and learn. Our atmosphere and our class must be a safe and great place for our students to be. That is my top priority.

“The second one is expertise and knowledge. We are here to make people ready for a new journey. More than seventy percent of our students are adults who have experience in different fields, and we should teach them practical and realistic concepts that can be used the next day in businesses.”

His teaching is rooted in clarity and depth. He slows down, expands concepts, and helps students grasp not just definitions, but the real-world logic behind them.

“In some sessions, I teach five slides in two hours because I have a lot of examples. I open all the concepts for my students and make sure that everyone understands all the details. We talk about a wide range of products and industries, from machinery, raw materials, chemicals and finished goods to electronics, because customs brokers are involved in all of them.

“We add a lot of value to each slide. It is not just reading slides or explaining slides. I share what has happened in real companies, in real situations. That makes learning deeper.”

His goal is always the same: help students understand the “why” behind the systems they study.

Making Online Learning Engaging, Interactive, and Hands-On

Despite being fully online, Rahim’s classes are dynamic, lively, and highly interactive.

“Our class is completely interactive. Students discuss with each other and with the instructor. We have breakout rooms and ask students to work on assignments. Assignments are not just questions, they are designed based on real work settings.

“We update our courses from time to time to make the experience deeper. We try to involve students. They are taken care of and not left alone. Whatever questions they have, all are answered. I always tell students that all questions are welcome, and no one is allowed to judge others for their questions. We don’t have silly questions in the class.”

He shares with us that even in an online format, students feel a sense of community and engagement.

“Students usually enjoy their time in class and learn a lot of new things. We try to create a space where they feel free to ask questions, discuss with peers, and explore concepts without fear.”

Inside the Program: A Comprehensive, Industry-Aligned Curriculum

Rahim is deeply proud of the program’s structure and breadth. Anderson’s supply chain and logistics program is designed to prepare students for real employment, not just academic completion.

“We have a set of comprehensive courses. We cover an introductory course to supply chain, purchasing, contracts and negotiations, project management, distribution, inventory management, customs clearance, specialized transportation courses, soft skills, Office Suite, business communications, and Business Essentials.

“Our course portfolio is really unique and makes our students ready for a wide range of jobs.”

He is especially proud of the multicultural and multi-experienced student base.

“In the last two years, we have had students from more than 75 countries. That’s an amazing experience. More than 70% have experience in different fields, not necessarily supply chain, but many different fields. It creates a multicultural atmosphere where various students can learn a lot.”

He praises the college’s structure and support, which help students stay confident and focused.

“We have great, updated books, and our team, from the registration team, admissions team and student services to instructors – everyone is supportive. We try to create the best experience for our students.”

What Makes Anderson’s Approach Unique

Rahim believes the program’s accessibility and flexibility set it apart.

“Online delivery has a lot of advantages. Students don’t get stuck in traffic. They avoid wasting time. And we have great interaction. We have morning and evening classes, so if people are busy during the day, they can join us in the evening.

“Timing is important. And our team is always available. Sometimes I send messages to colleagues at 7 pm – they answer quickly. Our students are our main focus.”

He also emphasizes the program’s balanced structure.

“Students rarely feel stressed in our classes. They have a lot to do, but we have plans and schedules. We train them first and then ask them to do something.”

Industry Trends: AI, Technology, and the Future of Supply Chain

Rahim integrates current industry trends into his teaching, ensuring students remain competitive in a rapidly evolving field.

“The trends that are happening now are AI and new technologies, moving very fast. We try to bring activities into class to create a better experience for our students. Digital twins, remote working – these are also trends.”

He emphasizes that understanding fundamentals is critical before layering on advanced tools.

“The most important thing is that students know the fundamentals. If you know only AI and know nothing about supply chain, you won’t be successful. You need to know the principles, then add AI technologies.”

These discussions help students understand how global shifts are shaping the logistics and supply chain industry, and how staying adaptable will keep them relevant in the years ahead.

He reassures learners that technology is an ally, not a threat.

“Would AI be a risk for everyone? It depends on our approach. If we learn how to use it and adapt, we will work better and be more effective. Some jobs may be replaced, but many will stay. AI is just a tool to improve productivity.”

Certification Strength: CIFFA and Career Advantage

A major highlight of the program is the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA) certification.

“Up to now, all of our students have passed CIFFA. Maybe less than 5% fail the first attempt, but 95% usually pass in the first attempt. I am also a CIFFA-certified instructor and have published about 18 books related to CIFFA courses.

“It is a very well-known and credible certificate in the industry. Having it means a lot. It makes it easier to get job offers because you are certified by the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association.”

Career Opportunities: Roles Across Every Sector

Rahim sees supply chain as one of the most robust job markets.

“Every company, literally every company, needs people in the supply chain department. Government, private, for-profit, nonprofit, big, small. Everyone needs supply chain to some extent, from entry-level to high-level.

“We have jobs in purchasing, operations, logistics, inventory management, distribution, customs clearance, customer service, business communications. Our program provides a comprehensive package.”

In his experience, graduates transition smoothly into employment.

“I have never had a student come back saying they couldn’t find a job. Most find jobs easily, and many get offers at the place they do their practicum. Even after placement, they often get promoted quickly.”

Practicum: A Real-World Launchpad

The practicum is a defining strength of the diploma in logistics and supply chain.

“Our practicum is a four-month experience at a company. We support students to find a place and arrange interviews. They gain real business experience in a real company, 20 hours a week for four months.

“Many receive job offers at the end of the practicum at the same company. Not every college offers a placement experience, and we support students as much as possible, even answering their questions during the practicum.”

This structure bridges the gap between learning and employment.

Skills for Success: The Complete Professional

Rahim ensures students leave with both technical and soft skills.

“Soft skills include communication, patience, and the ability to work with cross-cultural teams. We intentionally work on these.

“For hard skills, students need purchasing, negotiation, contracts, logistics, inventory management, demand planning, distribution. All have separate courses, and students gain a lot of experience.”

Advice for Future Professionals

His guidance is straightforward and encouraging.

“Start and train yourself well at a reliable place. Learning by experience alone takes a long time. Good education and training allow you to progress faster.

“We are more than happy to have new students from different societies in our classes and help them succeed.”

In Conclusion: Learning from a Leader in Global Supply Chain

Rahim’s story highlights the power of passion, lived experience, and teaching grounded in respect. His global perspective and real-world examples help students understand how supply chains truly function, while his interactive, supportive approach prepares them to apply those concepts with confidence.

Anderson College’s supply chain management training equips learners with the practical skills, hands-on practicum experience, and strong career support needed to step into meaningful roles across the industry. Guided by instructors like Rahim, students are empowered to build futures that are both rewarding and full of near-limitless possibilities.

Your Future in Supply Chain Starts Here

If Rahim’s story inspires you, this may be your moment to step into a field shaping the future of industries across Canada and around the world. Explore our Supply Chain & Logistics diploma program or take our Business Career Discovery Quiz to discover whether this high-impact, fast-growing profession is the right fit for you.

Your future in supply chain and logistics starts with strong training, hands-on experience, and the right support behind you. At Anderson College, we’re here to guide you from your first inquiry to your practicum and into your new career … helping you build the skills, confidence, and momentum to thrive.

Book an appointment with one of our Admissions Advisors today and take your next step toward a strong, future-focused career.