Charting a New Course: From Engineering to Global Supply Chain Leadership
Siri Koseyayothin’s journey to becoming a supply chain strategist began halfway across the world in Thailand, where she grew up before moving to Portland with her family. When it came time to choose a university, she didn’t have to look far. Portland State University offered the perfect combination of location, affordability, and academic strength.
“Choosing PSU was a meaningful decision—not only could I stay close to home, but I could also save on living costs while pursuing a quality education,” Siri says.
While her professional evolution was already underway, Siri also found unexpected joy in her personal life. “I started playing pickleball just six months ago, and now I’m completely hooked,” she laughs. “What began as a fun way to stay active has turned into a full-blown obsession!”
A Turning Point at Intel
Siri began her career as a process engineer at Intel, where a high-stakes technology transfer between Hillsboro and New Mexico became the catalyst for change. The project, which involved moving delicate wafer-handling equipment across a dramatically different altitude, ran into trouble when vacuum systems stopped working as expected. As pressure mounted, a debate ensued over who was responsible for testing the equipment under these new conditions.
“I asked if this scenario had been considered during procurement—and it hadn’t,” she says. That moment stuck with her. “It made me want to understand how upstream decisions are made and how better planning could avoid problems like these.”
That spark of curiosity led her to pursue a Master of Science in Global Supply Chain Management (MSGSCM) at PSU—a decision that would reframe her entire career.
Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice
In the classroom, Siri found more than just textbooks and lectures. Courses like Daniel Wong’s Global Case Studies gave her insight into how international supply chains are shaped not just by market forces, but by geopolitics and policy.
“It wasn’t just about reading real-world business cases—it helped me understand how global strategies are shaped by events happening thousands of miles away,” Siri says. Later, while working in her new role, she saw those theories come to life. “I saw firsthand how Trump-era tariffs reshaped business strategies. Some companies lost accounts overnight, while others suddenly gained them. That class helped me understand those shifts in real time.”
From Vietnam to Career Breakthrough
A pivotal moment in the MSGSCM program came during a study tour to Vietnam. The trip offered Siri a closer look at the regional strengths that drive global production and distribution—especially in fast-growing economies.
“One of the highlights was visiting Sigma Worldwide,” she says. At the time, Siri was actively trying to transition into a supply chain role. The site visit sparked a connection that ultimately led to her current job. “The program’s hands-on approach really set it apart,” she notes. “It wasn’t just theory—we were making industry connections and seeing supply chain operations on the ground.”
Now, Siri works in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, coordinating with engineering, logistics, and sourcing teams. “Breaking into a new field isn’t easy, but staying proactive helped. Thanks to Daniel’s support and the program’s strong industry ties, many of us were able to land meaningful opportunities.”
Advice for Future Students
For others considering the MSGSCM path, Siri offers both encouragement and perspective.
“This program helped me pivot my career, build real-world knowledge, and connect with professionals across the industry,” she says. “No matter your background, understanding supply chain is essential—it’s the backbone of every business.”