Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)
Definition
ASCM is the world's largest nonprofit association for supply chain professionals and the organization behind the APICS certifications, including CPIM, CSCP, and CLTD. It provides education, research, standards, and a global professional community.
In Practice
ASCM was formed in 2018 as the successor to APICS, the association that built the most widely recognized certification portfolio in supply chain. Beyond certifications, ASCM maintains the SCOR model for supply chain process benchmarking, publishes salary and industry research, and runs local chapters and events where professionals network and learn.
For someone building a supply chain career, ASCM matters for two reasons. First, its credentials are the ones recruiters most often search for, so understanding the CPIM, CSCP, and CLTD helps you choose a certification path deliberately. Second, membership provides discounted exams, learning content, and chapter access that can accelerate early-career growth.
A practical approach: join a local chapter, attend a few events to understand which roles and industries interest you, then commit to the certification that matches your target role. Many employers reimburse ASCM certification costs, so ask before paying out of pocket.
Related Terms
The CSCP is a globally recognized certification from ASCM that validates end-to-end supply chain knowledge, from supplier through to customer. It covers planning, sourcing, logistics, and technology across the full supply chain network.
Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM)The CPIM is an ASCM certification focused on production planning, inventory management, scheduling, and internal supply chain operations. It is one of the most widely held credentials among planners and inventory professionals.
Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)The CLTD is an ASCM certification covering logistics strategy, transportation modes, warehousing, distribution networks, and global trade. It is aimed at professionals who move, store, and deliver goods.