Using a qualitative comparative analysis as the interpretive approach, this research investigation examined the perceived relationship between the effectiveness of supply chain management and workforce educating and training. Participants in the study included decision-makers from various industry types, sizes and locations throughout the United States. These participants took part in one-on-one interviews that attempted to address the following research questions: (1) What is the perception within the organization of supply chain effectiveness? (2) Does a well-educated and trained workforce play a significant role in the organizations success? (3) Does the leadership communicate commitment to education and training? (4) Is there a perceived link between a well-educated and well-trained workforce and the organizations success? (5) Is the workforce more likely to be innovative, productive, and engaged in problem solving when company leadership openly communicates and rewards their accomplishments? (6) What is the significance and role of maintaining a high-performance workforce in a competitive global economy?

The analysis of data included the one-on-one interviews and flow-up surveys responses that resulted in meaningful clustering of research related themes. These themes included supply chain effectiveness, workforce education and training, leadership communication and commitment, the perceived link of education and training and organizational success, problem solving and rewards and the competitive global economy. The outcomes of the study provided confirmation of the significance of both supply chain management effectiveness and education and training in industry sustainability and success. This contribution includes a listing of industry implications and recommendations, as well as suggestions for future research studies.