Activities

A global value chain (GVC) comprises the full range of activities carried out by a range of firms across geographic spaces required to bring a product from its conception to its end use and beyond. The organization of international production is complex and creates difficult policy challenges. Stakeholders must understand how GVCs operate at a local to global scale to gainfully participate. Policy responses must be based on the best available information from a myriad of sources to ensure decisions are based on an accurate understanding of potential outcomes. Our GVC program provides valuable insight into these issues through research, education, and engagement activities.

The GVC program is distinguished by a commitment to incorporate students into its activities. Through the design of courses and curriculum as well as internships and research opportunities, students are exposed to various academic and applied approaches to global value chains. The GVC program prepares students to enter a range of careers in private and public sectors as well as inter-government organizations. Students gain an understanding of the multiple dimensions of GVCs from the perspectives of both governmental and corporate stakeholders. This new generation of students can bridge the gaps between local and global governments and the private sector.

At the faculty level, the interdisciplinary nature of GVC issues and the range and depth of data and academic questions is a natural fit to build teams across divisions and departments. Key schools include public policy, engineering, and business.