Arthur S Hughes

Arthur Hughes began teaching part-time at UNCW in 2022, and moved into a full-time lecturer position in 2025. He is a passionate professional and educator who began his successful career in engineering and evolved through significant leadership roles in sales, procurement, and supply chain, mostly in the Automotive industry.

Before UNCW, Arthur navigated a career that moved from engineering into sales and marketing, then procurement, supply chain, and supplier quality, and later into executive recruitment. He has held leadership roles with major organizations, including Catalent Pharma Solutions, GKN Automotive, and Cooper Tire & Rubber Company (now Goodyear).

Education

B.S. in Chemical Engineering, University of Kentucky
MBA in Organizational Development, University of Findlay (OH)

Specialization in Teaching

Drawing on a career in manufacturing and talent strategy, he integrates real-world challenges into the classroom, focusing on applied learning, ethical leadership, and career readiness. Arthur provides crucial insight into workplace expectations and the evolving hiring landscape, supporting both faculty and students as they navigate emerging technologies like AI. He is passionate about building student-centered approaches that link pedagogy, mentorship, and positive student outcomes.

Current/recent courses taught:
SCM 370 - Operations Management
SCM 375 - Quality Management
SCM 377 - International Operations Management
SCM 379 - Procurement Management
BUS 206 - Career Essentials
MIS 170 - Artificial Intelligence (AI) for All (co-teaching)

Professional Service

As Co-Director of the Cameron Executive Network, he pairs experienced business leaders with undergraduate students for mentorship, drawing on his own path through multiple functions and industries to guide students building their own.

He also is active on campus, serving as a Board Member for the Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE), and participating in various groups and task forces, particularly around artificial intelligence (AI).

Community Engagement

Arthur is an active networker in the local community and supports local charitable and service organizations, such as StepUp Wilmington and the Cape Fear Manufacturing Partnership.

Honors & Awards

UNCW Discere Aude Award - Recognizes UNCW faculty and staff for their significant achievement in undergraduate mentoring.
UNCW Center for Teaching Excellence Faculty Engagement Award - Recognizes faculty for outstanding dedication to teaching excellence, demonstrated through engagement in CTE initiatives and a sustained commitment to reflective practice, instructional innovation, and contribution to the UNCW teaching community.