NC State’s Master of Engineering Management (MEM) program held its annual MEM Executive Challenge. Professor of Practice Steven DelGrosso hosted the event, with program specialist Latha Dombro organizing the details. Students tackled a real-world supply chain issue facing AutoTech Motors, a top automaker. This year’s challenge, hosted in Fitts-Woolard Hall, pushed students to create AI-driven solutions to help modernize AutoTech’s outdated operations.
AutoTech Motors faces persistent challenges in demand forecasting, inventory management, and supply chain visibility. The company currently relies on manual processes, leading to inventory imbalances and delays. To address these issues, five teams of five students each designed strategies to boost AutoTech’s efficiency using AI technologies. Teams presented their ideas in detailed PowerPoint presentations, proposing solutions to improve demand forecasting, enhance responsiveness, and elevate competitiveness.
Throughout the competition, students analyzed AutoTech’s operations, assessing the costs, benefits, and challenges of their AI-based solutions. Teams also considered AutoTech’s policies and goals to ensure their solutions aligned with the company’s objectives. This comprehensive approach provided practical tools to help AutoTech reclaim its competitive edge.
This year, DelGrosso wanted to expand the competition’s scope. “My idea was to expand and design a more comprehensive case problem,” he said. “This way, MEM students could leverage more of the curriculum.” He explained that the case required applying skills in strategy, leadership, consulting, and project management, helping students gain practical experience.
Judgment Day!
After all the teams presented, the team “WolfPack Grit” earned the top spot. Members Jatin Chaudhari, Unnati Ghorpade, Molly Li, Gargee Nimdeo, and Samuel Sarakbi wowed judges with their clear, creative, and practical recommendations. In second place was the team “Game Changers,” with members Hassan Almuzel, Goldan Azhagappaselvan, Matt Izzo, Shubha Jha, and Sreeraj Kudikala, who also demonstrated impressive insight and innovation.
Xavier Segovia, one of the industry judges, shared how he got involved with the event. “My good friend and professor of MEM, Ken Gregory, invited me to a speed mentoring session a few weeks ago,” he explained. “At the end, Brandon asked if any of the industry experts would like to volunteer to serve as a judge of the MEM Exec. Challenge.” For Segovia, the event is a “win-win.” He explained, “I enjoy sharing my perspective with students, and I think it’s an opportunity for me to give but also one to receive.” Segovia believes these interactions with students provide fresh insights that help him approach his own career challenges from new angles.
When asked what set the winning teams apart, Segovia highlighted both content and presentation. “The best teams had content with good visuals and great, simple-to-understand delivery,” he noted. He emphasized the importance of a well-told story with “right” assumptions and a deep understanding of the problems and context. Above all, he stressed that explaining the “why” behind a solution was key.
DelGrosso agreed, noting that top teams delivered with speed and clarity. “Technical details matter,” he said, “but it’s equally important to clearly communicate the problem and how the solution can be implemented in the company.”
Segovia praised the teams’ overall performances, saying, “The future is bright!” He added that the MEM program’s commitment to real-world challenges and engagement with industry experts offers students invaluable experience. “I hope students fully seize these opportunities in the future,” he said.
Another judge, Richard Jenny, also praised the teams’ ability to analyze the case and create compelling presentations. “The teams had little time to study the case, apply meaningful concepts, and compile a cohesive plan.” When asked for his impression of the teams’ work, he responded simply, “Excellent.”
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, the MEM program hopes this competition will become a signature experience for students. “Our vision is for the MEM Executive Challenge to become a student highlight and keystone event,” DelGrosso shared. He explained that the goal is to help students prepare for real-world challenges and the time pressures they will face in their careers as managers and leaders.
The MEM Executive Challenge reflects NC State’s dedication to preparing students for the complexities of engineering management. This event hones critical thinking and problem-solving skills while encouraging innovation. Participants gain valuable experience for future careers in a competitive, technology-driven world by working in teams and presenting solutions to industry professionals.