FEATURE
Skills defining the future workforce
The report identifies the growing adoption of digital as among the most promising innovations.
Although still in early stages across Latin America, these virtual replicas of supply chain operations are beginning to play a strategic role. Digital twins enable organizations to simulate scenarios, anticipate disruptions and evaluate alternative strategies before implementing changes in real operations. In a region characterized by volatility, including demand fluctuations and climate-related disruptions, this predictive capability provides a significant competitive advantage.
The adoption of digital twins also reinforces the importance of data accuracy and analytical capability. Their effectiveness depends on reliable inputs and the ability of professionals
• Digital system proficiency( ERP, WMS, TMS)
• Data analysis and insight-driven decision-making
• Ability to work alongside automation and AI systems
• Understanding of digital twins and predictive tools
• Soft skills: adaptability, resilience and critical thinking
The modern supply chain professional must combine technical expertise with strong cognitive and behavioural capabilities. to interpret simulation results. This marks a shift from reactive problem-solving to proactive planning, requiring a workforce that is comfortable working with advanced analytical tools and predictive models.
Artificial intelligence is also evolving rapidly, the report says, particularly with the emergence of agentic AI systems. These digital agents can perform complex tasks such as dynamic route planning, risk anticipation and operational adjustments with minimal human intervention. While adoption in Latin America remains gradual, the report references early applications as already demonstrating improvements in agility and error reduction.
Rather than eliminating human roles, agentic AI is transforming them. As routine decisionmaking becomes increasingly automated, human workers are taking on more strategic responsibilities. They must oversee AI-driven processes, validate outcomes and provide critical judgment. This shift, the report says, places a premium on cognitive skills such as critical thinking, adaptability and crossfunctional understanding.
Despite these technological advances, the supply chain sector faces a significant structural challenge: a global shortage of qualified talent.
The report says organizations across Latin America have difficulty finding professionals with
38
INTELLIGENT CIO LATAM www. intelligentcio. com