Dennis Oates

Dennis OatesMarquette University

O'Brien Hall, 448K

MilwaukeeWI53201United States of America(414) 288-2432dennis.oates@marquette.edu

Assistant Professor of Practice, Supply Chain

Dennis L. Oates, DBA, is an Assistant Professor of Practice at Marquette University who brings decades of real-world experience into the classroom. He has held executive roles at Amazon and FedEx and led innovative logistics start-ups, managing global teams across North America, Europe, and Asia. These experiences shape his teaching, where he connects theory to practice and prepares students to succeed in a rapidly changing supply chain environment. His doctoral research focused on supply chain innovation, complementing his practical expertise with academic insight. Dennis holds a BS in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University and an MBA from Loyola University Chicago.

Education

• BSIE Purdue University 1991
• MBA Loyola University 1996
• DBA UW Whitewater 2025

Courses Taught

MBA6090 - Business Essentials Supply Chain Management,  OSCM4040 - Global Logistics,  OSCM3001 - Operations and Supply Chain Management

Research Interests

My professional and research interests focus on supply chain innovation and the operational strategies firms use to stay competitive in dynamic markets. I study open innovation, examining how organizations source and integrate ideas from external partners, customers, and ecosystems to advance supply chain practices. I also work with firms to apply innovative operational models and collaborative network designs that improve resilience, adaptability, and overall performance.

Professional Affiliations

1. Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) - Member
2. Institute of Industrial and System Engineers (IISE) - Fellow and Past President

Specialization

1.  Supply Chain Management and Logistics 
2. Supply Chain Innovation and Digital Transformation 
3. Global Operations Strategy