APICS CPIM: Certified in Planning & Inventory Management

The Credential for Planning, Scheduling, and Inventory Leaders

Check out our CPIM Information Video!

I. What is CPIM?

Resilience and agility are what make supply chains thrive. By earning the APICS Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM) designation, you’ll gain the knowledge and credibility to manage planning, production, and inventory operations across the supply chain. CPIM equips you to manage risks, streamline processes, and leverage technology to build resilient and efficient operations.

II. Who Is It For?

The APICS CPIM is designed for professionals who manage the internal operations of supply chains—planning, production, and inventory day-to-day.

You should consider CPIM if you are involved in:

• Planning & Scheduling – master scheduling, MRP, balancing supply & demand
• Inventory Management – controlling stock levels, managing safety stock, reducing excess inventory
• Production & Operations – shop floor execution, capacity planning, detailed scheduling
• Procurement & Materials Management – ensuring raw materials/components are available
• Distribution & Warehousing – coordinating movement and storage of goods

Typical roles: Production Planners, Master Schedulers, Demand Planners, Inventory Analysts/Managers, Supply Chain Analysts, Procurement Specialists/Buyers, and Operations or Plant Managers.

👉 If your job requires ensuring the right materials are in the right place, at the right time, in the right quantity, CPIM gives you the tools to do it effectively.

III. Why CPIM Matters in Houston & Louisiana

In supply chain hubs like Houston, Beaumont, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans, companies depend on professionals who can balance cost, efficiency, and resilience while keeping operations running smoothly.

• Operational Excellence – Improve efficiency and reduce costly errors.
• Risk Resilience – Manage disruptions from shortages, delays, or market shifts.
• Career Growth – Stand out in competitive Gulf Coast job markets with proven expertise.

📍 Houston is a global hub for energy, petrochemicals, logistics, and port activity, while Baton Rouge and New Orleans host chemical plants, refineries, and major distribution centers. In this region, CPIM certification isn’t just a credential—it’s a career advantage.

IV. What You Will Learn: CPIM Core Knowledge Areas

The CPIM program equips you with deep technical knowledge across nine domains:

1. Demand Management – Forecast demand and translate it into actionable plans
2. Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) – Align strategy with supply and demand
3. Master Planning & Scheduling – Create production schedules, run MRP, ensure resources
4. Detailed Scheduling & Capacity Planning – Support shop floor execution and capacity use
5. Inventory Management – Balance service levels with cost reduction
6. Procurement & Materials Management – Source, purchase, and manage materials effectively
7. Distribution & Logistics – Move finished goods efficiently to customers
8. Continuous Improvement & Lean Practices – Apply Lean, JIT, and CI tools to reduce waste
9. Performance Measurement & Risk Management – Track KPIs and strengthen resilience

V. Employer Demand & ROI

Across the Gulf Coast and globally, leading companies highly value CPIM-certified professionals.

• Energy & Chemicals: ExxonMobil, Shell, Chevron, Dow, BASF, Sasol
• Manufacturing & Industrial: Honeywell, Caterpillar, GE, Boeing, Lockheed Martin
• Consumer Goods & Food: Procter & Gamble, PepsiCo, Nestlé, Johnson & Johnson

Employers rely on CPIM experts to keep operations synchronized, minimize risk, and maintain profitability. In regions like Houston, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans, CPIM is especially valued where planning and inventory accuracy directly impact safety and performance.

VI. CPIM Study Path

ASCM Houston offers flexible study formats:

• Instructor-Led (Virtual or In-Person)
• Virtual Classes – live, interactive sessions
• Self-Paced – online study at your convenience

VII. Next Steps to Certification

Getting started is simple:

1. Join ASCM Houston at houston.ascm.org for discounts and resources.
2. Choose your path: instructor-led or self-paced.
3. Prepare with the CPIM Learning System and practice exams.
4. Schedule your exam online or at a testing center.
5. Earn your CPIM and make a greater impact in your career.

👉 Visit houston.ascm.org to explore courses, exam dates, and registration links.

VIII. FAQs & Support

Still have questions about CPIM or the best certification for your career path? Our team is here to help.

📩 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: houston.ascm.org
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📣 Subscribe: Get updates on classes, webinars, and industry insights.

IX. Policies & Support

Cancellation Policy

• Cancel up to 14 days before class for a full refund
• No refunds after this date
• Reschedules must be requested before the first class

CPIM Review Class Audit
To support student success, ASCM Houston offers one FREE audit for returning students (within 12 months).

• Must have paid for and attended a prior CPIM class
• Request permission 7 days before class start
• Provide proof of payment and attendance (registration receipt)
• Subject to space availability; no new materials provided

🚀 Ready to Move Forward?

Optimize your planning and inventory management expertise.
Let CPIM be your next step.

📍 Presented by ASCM Houston – Empowering Supply Chain Professionals

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