How Do I Become a Transportation Analyst?

Transportation analysts are logistics professionals who commonly work in fields such as manufacturing and distribution. These individuals are responsible for helping organizations to improve efficiency and cost effectiveness in all areas of operation that are related to transportation. They are considered integral parts of a supply chain and perform duties such as negotiating with suppliers and clients, designing transportation routes and creating budgets. To become a transportation analyst, you should earn a degree in a field such as logistics or supply chain management. Many people who earn these high-level positions also have graduate degrees in related fields.

A person who wants to become a transportation analyst normally must have at least three to five years of experience working in transportation logistics. In most cases, it is essential that this kind of professional has had this experience within the same industry, sometimes within the same company. A person who wants to become a transportation analyst in manufacturing, for example, should gain as much experience as possible performing logistical analysis related to the transportation of raw materials while keeping on tight production schedules. Experience in the retail end of a supply chain might not be relevant for this kind of position.

To become a transportation analyst, it almost always is necessary to have excellent analytical skills. Professionals in this field use complex computer programs to gather and analyze data, then generate charts and graphs that help them gain clear perspectives of problems and design solutions. In most cases, a person who wants to become a transportation analyst can learn to use related software while in a graduate program. Computer programs are updated often, and new models commonly are introduced into a market, so it also is common for transportation analysts to join professional organizations in which they can learn about new developments and trends.

An individual who would like to become a transportation analyst also should have a strong background in risk management. This is the process by which professionals determine the risks to which they are most vulnerable and create strategies for security. They might also create plans in case the worst does happen.

When it comes to composing résumés and cover letters, it is important for a person who would like to become a transportation analyst to focus on his or her experience within a particular industry and to be able to write about specific initiatives or projects that he or she has orchestrated. A person who wants to become a transportation analyst also should try to publish articles in trade publications that focus on supply chain logistics. You should list any awards or other honors related to your profession on your résumé.