Catalyzing Systemic Change: A Conversation with HACC’s Co-founder & CEO on Accelerating the Clean Energy Transition

/in , , ,

 


Allyson Browne, Co-founder & CEO High Ambition Climate Collective (HACC)

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Allyson Browne, Co-founder and CEO of the High Ambition Climate Collective (HACC), to discuss how this innovative nonprofit is driving progress at pivotal energy crossroads—especially maritime ports—to catalyze global climate action. From aligning policymakers, industry partners, and community leaders to equipping them with the tools to tackle systemic challenges, Allyson sheds light on HACC’s bold vision for accelerating the clean energy transition, overcoming policy and infrastructure hurdles, and shaping a sustainable, equitable future for the transport sector and beyond.

 

Can you tell us about the High Ambition Climate Collective (HACC) and its mission? What inspired you to create this organisation, and what are its main areas of focus?

I’ve spent my entire career working to advance the clean energy transition, and our focus here at HACC is a continuation of that commitment, but with even greater ambition. HACC’s vision is systemic change in the energy sector. To this end, our mission is to bring together policymakers, industry partners and community leaders to build enduring power for climate action and system change at critical energy nexus points, including maritime ports.

Why ports? They are key energy hubs, facilitating energy trade and providing essential infrastructure for electricity and fuel needs across transport modes. This makes ports a prime catalyst for transformative change. As we continue to grow, we’re set on applying this approach to other strategic targets, advancing climate action across the broader energy sector.

But this vision and mission isn’t mine alone. Together with my co-founder, Sandy Naranjo, and a few of our founding Collective members, we wanted to build a solutions-oriented forum for collaboration and collective action–and that’s exactly what we’re doing.
With the IMO’s new regulations on decarbonisation and sustainability in shipping coming into effect, what opportunities and challenges do you see for the transport and logistics sectors?

The IMO’s forthcoming compliance measures represent a major opportunity to accelerate shipping’s energy transition, particularly with respect to accelerating the uptake of green hydrogen-based fuels including green e-methanol, and in electrifying port operations. These measures will also provide a framework for financing the transition, creating opportunities for first-movers to lead in sustainability.

However, challenges remain. The fragmented governance of ports and shipping means that aligning global standards with local implementation is an incredibly complex undertaking. Moreover, the high upfront costs of clean energy infrastructure—like bunkering facilities for low- and zero-emission fuels and grid upgrades—pose barriers, especially for smaller ports. To address these challenges, we’re focused on bridging these gaps by fostering collaboration between stakeholders, creating knowledge hubs, and advocating for policy frameworks that can support innovation and streamline compliance systems.
Climate change often demands collaborative efforts across industries. How does the HACC engage with stakeholders in the transport sector to drive meaningful progress?

HACC is a convener, bringing together policymakers, industry partners, and community leaders in an effort to break down silos that exist between these stakeholder groups, encourage collaboration and foster cross-sector partnerships. Through forums, workshops, and our digital HACC Hub, we create spaces for knowledge exchange, helping stakeholders share insights, best practices, and innovative solutions.

By focusing on research, education and capacity-building, we help stakeholders—from port authorities to energy providers—translate ideas into action. For example, we’re developing built-for-purpose resources to guide ports and policymakers for high ambition climate action. As we look towards 2025, we’re excited to start building bridges between regions, ensuring that successful initiatives in one market inform strategies in others, accelerating global progress.
How can collaborative networks like HACC and PLIKA accelerate the adoption of green energy solutions in transport, and what specific role do you envision for such networks in shaping future policies?

Collaborative networks like HACC and PLIKA are vital for accelerating and sustaining green energy solutions by fostering dialogue, aligning interests, and driving coordinated action. They tackle barriers head-on, pool expertise, and build consensus on best practices to ensure scalable, impactful solutions.

Networks like HACC are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between local successes and systemic change. For example, through our Climate-Positive Ports initiative, we amplify projects like port electrification in California and green fuel bunkering in Rotterdam. These serve as proof-of-concept models that can inform global development, ensuring they are rooted in real-world application. And by bringing together stakeholders across sectors, we encourage alignment on best practices and provide actionable recommendations for policymakers, driving global impact from local innovation.
In your view, what role does education and training play in advancing sustainability in transport? What skills or knowledge areas do you think are most essential for professionals to develop, and how can institutions like Escola Europea and organisations like HACC contribute to shaping a greener future for the sector?

Education and training are at the heart of a just and sustainable transition in the transport sector, and Escola Europea is already paving the way with its programs. The focus on maritime training and fostering blue economy skills is essential for equipping today’s workers with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of the energy transition, and inspiring the future workforce to see themselves in these careers. From alternative fuels to digitalization, Escola’s programs ensure the maritime workforce is not only prepared but positioned to thrive in a decarbonized industry.

At HACC, we see an opportunity to build on this leadership by complementing Escola’s work with our focus on systemic change and cross-sector collaboration, and we’re so proud to count Escola Europea as a Knowledge Partner of our Climate-Positive Ports initiative. By working together, we can help ensure that the workforce is ready to meet the challenges of the energy transition while prioritizing worker safety, equity, and long-term resilience.
Looking ahead, what trends or innovations in sustainable transport excite you the most, and how do you see the HACC contributing to these developments?

We are thrilled by the innovation sparked by this transition and look forward to collaborating with our maritime and blue tech partners—including incubators, accelerators, and entrepreneurs—to integrate these advancements into global systems for lasting impact.

We welcome your readers to read more about our work and to join our movement at www.hacc.world.

Innovative Simulator Demonstrated during Energy Transition in Ports Course, Driving Sustainable Maritime Solutions

/in , , , ,

Barcelona, December 3, 2024 – The Escola Europea has successfully concluded its Energy Transition in Ports: Build Your Port Energy Transition Plan course, organized under the umbrella of the GREEN MARINE MED project, an initiative co-financed by the European Union focused on promoting energy transition plans in Mediterranean ports. The EU funding allowed the course to be fully subsidized, providing an unparalleled opportunity for global industry professionals to engage in advancing sustainability in port operations.

Held from November 18–28, 2024, the hybrid programme combined online learning, immersive in-person workshops, and cutting-edge technology. The course culminated in the practical piloting of the new simulator, developed by the Escola Europea in collaboration with Portwise, which brought intermodal logistics and sustainable strategies to life.

Piloting Innovation: The Simulator

A highlight of the course was the presentation of the prototype of Escola Europea’s Port Energy Transition Simulator, which is currently under development. During the in-person sessions in Barcelona, this innovative tool was used to support the resolution of a practical case study. The simulator provided valuable insights into energy transition planning for ports, and it is expected that in the next edition of the course, the practical case study will be developed entirely using the simulator, offering an even more immersive and comprehensive learning experience.

“This training provided us with important insights into how users interact with the tool and what they expect from it,” said Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea. “These lessons will be instrumental in completing the development of the simulator during the remaining months of the Green Marine Med project, ensuring it is fully aligned with the real needs of ports in their energy transition efforts.”

The Escola Europea has already been successfully using another simulator in its courses— Port Virtual Lab, a tool that gamifies the learning experience by allowing participants to carry out transport operations within a fully virtual port community.

Course Overview and Highlights

The course began with a week of online lectures featuring leading experts in decarbonization, renewable energy, and digitalization for emissions control. The second week, held in Barcelona, offered practical workshops, site visits to key port facilities, and hands-on exercises using the simulator. Participants from over 20 countries joined the training, contributing to its diverse and enriching learning environment. Representatives came from Spain, Italy, Morocco, France, the United States, Sri Lanka, Lebanon, Peru, Mauritania, and the United Kingdom, among others. Esteemed organizations such as MEDports Association, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Port de Barcelona, OCP Solutions, Eurogate Tanger, Ports of Genoa, Fundación Valenciaport, Cellnex Telecom, and the Polytechnic University of Valencia were among those represented. This international and multi-sectoral collaboration added invaluable perspectives, fostering innovative discussions on energy transition strategies and solutions for port operations.

Participants had the opportunity to visit facilities such as container terminals, LNG refuelling sites, hydrogen infrastructure, and OPS (Onshore Power Supply) installations, gaining valuable insights into the latest sustainable technologies transforming the maritime industry.

Empowering Professionals for a Greener Future

As part of the course, participants developed their own Port Energy Transition Plans, blending insights from global experts, practical site visits, and the simulator. These plans aim to address the specific sustainability challenges faced by their ports and organizations. With representatives from more than 10 countries, the course fostered international collaboration and the exchange of best practices. This edition marked a milestone in advancing the goals of the Green Marine Med project.

The Escola Europea plans to build on this success with future editions of the course, offering professionals cutting-edge tools and knowledge to lead the energy transition in ports.

Spain’s Ministry of Transport Highlights Escola Europea’s Port Virtual Lab as a Key Tool for Logistics Digitalisation

/in , ,

Madrid, 4 December 2024 – Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, and Marta Miquel, Head of the Institution’s Business Development Department, met today in Madrid with Benito Núñez Quintanilla, Secretary General for Air and Maritime Transport at Spain’s Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda. The meeting focused on advancing digitalisation in the port and airport logistics sectors.

During the discussion, Escola Europea presented its simulation tool, the Port Virtual Lab (PVL), which is designed to train logistics professionals through simulated environments that replicate real-world operations. The Secretary General was highly impressed with the initiative, recognising its potential to accelerate digitalisation in the sector and its suitability for inclusion in the Ministry’s Digitalisation Training Voucher programmes.

Having collaborated with Escola Europea in previous roles within the Ministry, Benito Núñez was already familiar with the organisation’s work. This prior knowledge reinforced his positive evaluation of the Port Virtual Lab and its potential for practical application in both the port and airport logistics sectors.

“Digitalisation is one of the logistics sector’s most pressing challenges, and initiatives like the Port Virtual Lab can make a real impact in equipping professionals to tackle the demands of the future,” said Eduard Rodés during the meeting.

This meeting reaffirms Escola Europea’s commitment to innovation and excellence in training, strengthening its position as a key player in the modernisation and digitalisation of the logistics industry.

Escola Europea, ITS Academy “G. Caboto,” and the Port Authority of Rome Sign Seven-Year Agreement

/in , ,

Strengthening Innovation in Maritime Education with the Port Virtual Lab and New Transport Planning Programme

Civitavecchia, 18th November 2024 — Escola Europea, ITS Academy “G. Caboto,” and the Port Authority of Rome (Autorità di Sistema Portuale del Mar Tirreno Centro Settentrionale) have renewed their collaboration agreement, extending their partnership for another seven years. This extended agreement reaffirms their shared mission to drive excellence in maritime education, port logistics, and environmental sustainability.

Central to this renewed collaboration is the Port Virtual Lab (PVL), an innovative simulation tool that allows students to experience real-world logistics challenges within a dynamic digital setting. PVL immerses students in hands-on learning, where they can navigate complex logistical scenarios, gain practical skills, and develop problem-solving capabilities critical for today’s maritime and logistics sectors. The inclusion of PVL underscores the three institutions’ commitment to advancing maritime education through cutting-edge technologies.

“We are delighted to continue and deepen our partnership with ITS Academy ‘G. Caboto’ and the Port Authority of Rome,” said Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea. “Our aim is to provide high-quality, practical education that prepares young professionals for the demands of a complex logistics landscape. By extending our collaboration, we continue to support critical skills development through innovative training programs.”

Since its inception five years ago, Escola Europea has supported the development of forward-looking training programs at ITS Academy. This year, as part of this ongoing effort, the partnership will also introduce a new Transport and Logistics Planning course. While Escola’s role in this program is still being defined, the course represents a key step in addressing the evolving needs of the maritime and logistics fields.

The renewed agreement aligns with the long-term vision of all three institutions: to equip the next generation of industry professionals with advanced training, promote sustainable practices, and foster innovation across Europe’s port logistics communities.

For more information on this collaboration or the upcoming programs, please contact: Alessia Mastromattei.

Escola Partners in Launch of New ITS Courses for Sustainable Mobility in Sicily

/in , ,

This November, ITS Academy InfoMobPMO in Palermo, with the support of partners like Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, is launching two innovative post-diploma ITS Sustainable Mobility Courses Sicily. These programmes aim to equip Sicilian youth with the skills needed to thrive in growing industries and address the regional demand for qualified professionals.

The two courses are:

  1. Passenger Experience Onboard: Preparing students for careers in managing passenger services onboard ships, addressing the high demand for skilled professionals in the cruise sector.
  2. Ship Operations and Systems Management: Training future specialists in the operation of ships and the management of onboard systems and equipment.
  3. Transport Infrastructure and Vehicle Maintenance: Focused on optimising and maintaining transportation systems and related infrastructure, a critical area for sustainable mobility.
  4. Logistics and Intermodal Transport: Providing comprehensive training in logistics, intermodal operations, and the integration of transport systems to meet the growing need for skilled professionals in this field.

All courses combine classroom learning with hands-on internships in local companies, offering students a fast track into the workforce. As part of the training, students will participate in courses led by Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, focusing on intermodal logistics and sustainable transport solutions. This collaboration ensures graduates receive practical, industry-relevant expertise that prepares them for careers in the evolving mobility sector. It is important to note that the Port Authority of Palermo, a key member of Escola Europea, plays an integral role in these initiatives, contributing its expertise in maritime logistics and supporting the hands-on training components.

“Collaborating with ITS InfoMobPMO allows us to contribute expertise in intermodal and sustainable mobility, providing students with practical skills for a dynamic sector,” said Marco Muci, Country Manager for Italy at the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport.

With funding from the PNRR (National Recovery and Resilience Plan), these ITS Sustainable Mobility Courses aim to strengthen connections between education and industry, creating opportunities for local youth while boosting Sicily’s economy.

Applications are open until 24 November. For more details, head here. 

Partnership Agreement Signed for the Implementation of PVL.ONE in Casablanca

/in , , ,

Casablanca, 2 October 2024 – A new partnership has been formalised between the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport and the Institute for Training in Logistics and Transport (IFTL) in Casablanca. This collaboration marks the beginning of the implementation of the PVL.ONE platform, an innovative training tool designed to enhance professional competencies in the field of logistics and transport.

The agreement was signed by Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea, and Mohamed Karaouane, Director of the IFTL. The signing ceremony was attended by key representatives from both organisations and other industry leaders. Pictured at the event alongside the signees were Yassir Lamnadi from the Escola Europea, Hicham Soufi, Vice President of the Moroccan Freight Forwarding Association (AFFM), Fedwa Driouch, Dr. Sanaa Hassini, Mostapha Benhima from Grimaldi, and Rachid Tahri, President of the Moroccan Freight Forwarders Association.

PVL.ONE is a cutting-edge virtual platform designed to simulate port operations, providing users with real-world scenarios that improve decision-making skills and operational efficiency. The partnership between the Escola and IFTL seeks to strengthen the logistics and transport training infrastructure in Morocco, aligning with the country’s goals of increasing sustainability and competitiveness in the global market.

Through this collaboration, professionals in Morocco will gain access to top-tier training solutions that leverage the latest in technology and innovation, fostering greater expertise in the logistics sector.

For more information, please contact: info@escolaeuropea.eu.

PLIKA Hosts Successful First Webinar

/in , ,

On September 12th, at 11:00 CET, PLIKA hosted its inaugural webinar on Digital Solutions and Artificial Intelligence in Ports exclusively for its members, known as PLIKERS. The event attracted approximately 27 participants and featured two distinguished speakers, each with extensive experience in the port and logistics sectors.

The first speaker, Prof. Alaa Morsy, Vice President of PLIKA, brought over 23 years of expertise in port operations, specialising in training, consulting, and research with a focus on sustainability and innovation. His presentation, titled “Digital Solutions for Sustainable Port Operations,” explored the evolution of technology from the agricultural era to the current digitalization era, and how these advancements are reshaping the port industry.

Prof. Morsy emphasised the growing role of port automation systems, highlighting tools such as intelligent cranes, automated vehicles, remotely monitored Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes, Optical Character Recognition (OCR), and Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV). He explained that the implementation of digital control analytics and unified dashboards can help port operators track emissions, optimize infrastructure, and plan for future needs. The Internet of Things (IoT), he noted, further supports this digital transformation by optimizing asset maintenance, electricity usage, and equipment performance.

He concluded by stressing the importance of digitalization for improving warehouse management, enhancing environmental sustainability through renewable energy integration, and driving data-driven decision-making. However, he also addressed the challenges of cybersecurity risks and the high costs associated with installing advanced IT infrastructure in ports.

The second speaker, Mr. Carles Rua, Head of Innovation at the Port of Barcelona, brought over 15 years of experience to his presentation on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in port operations and supply chain management. Mr. Rua remarked that while AI itself is not new, the current combination of technologies is revolutionising the industry.

He shared several examples of AI implementation at the Port of Barcelona, including virtual gates that scan seals, analyse cargo, and measure volumetric characteristics using LIDAR technology at terminal entrances. Another initiative he mentioned was the introduction of autonomous and electric buses as part of the port’s innovation drive. He also highlighted the 5G Maritime project, which leverages smart cameras for smart vessel location, detecting both large and small vessels.

Throughout the webinar, Ms. Ana Rumbeu, Vice President of PLIKA, expressed her enthusiasm for the topics discussed. She underscored the importance of implementing these innovations in the field, drawing attention to the ValenciaPort Foundation’s initiative to train copilots who can lead small-scale innovations that could result in major organisational changes over time.

The event concluded with a dynamic Q&A session, where participants actively engaged with the speakers, asking insightful questions about the topics presented. The high level of interest demonstrated the relevance of these issues within the PLIKA community.

Ms. Ana Rumbeu closed the session by emphasising the importance of maintaining the strong bonds and exchanges that PLIKA members have built and how this community can continue to thrive through collaboration and shared knowledge.

PLIKA, born out of the YEP MED project, aims to serve as a collaborative platform that brings the brightest minds of the industry together.

Navigating the Future of Sustainable Ports: An Interview with Alexandre Ariza

/in , ,
Alexandre Ariza

Alexandre Ariza, Academic Manager of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport

This month, we bring you closer to expert perspectives on environmental transitions in the port and maritime logistics sectors. We had the opportunity to sit down with Alexandre Ariza, the Escola’s Academic Manager and lead on our environmental simulator for ports, to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and strategies for adapting to a greener future.

Q. What trends are you seeing in environmental transitions within the port and maritime logistics sectors?

A: In recent years, there has been a clear shift toward decarbonization in ports and the maritime sector, driven by international regulations and the objectives set by the European Commission’s 2030 Fit for 55 plan and the Green Deal 2050. These initiatives aim for a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050. Key trends include the electrification of port operations, the adoption of alternative fuels such as hydrogen and liquefied natural gas (LNG), and the implementation of digital technologies to optimize energy efficiency.

Another critical aspect of decarbonization, aligned with the European Commission’s strategy, is intermodality. Reducing truck use by maximizing rail and sea highways is essential. Ports are key intermodal hubs, and improving the flow of goods through rail connections and short sea shipping to other ports is crucial. However, one of the major challenges is that there is no clear commitment to a single alternative fuel, and developing multiple options is extremely costly. While technologies like hydrogen are promising, they are still under development, meaning we must start the transition with options that, while not perfect, are more immediately implementable.

Q. What are some of the biggest challenges in making ports greener?

A: One of the biggest challenges is financing the energy transition. The upfront costs of adopting green technologies, such as electrification or alternative fuels, are high, and many port facilities rely on outdated equipment that is difficult to upgrade. Additionally, there is no clear consensus on which alternative fuel will be the standard in the long term. Technologies like hydrogen and ammonia are still in early stages and present technical and economic barriers. However, we cannot wait for perfect solutions; we must begin with currently available technologies.

Furthermore, improving intermodal transport systems is a major challenge. Ports need to optimize their rail and sea connections to minimize truck transport, aligning with the goals of the European Commission. Collaboration across the entire logistics chain and financial incentives will be crucial to achieving these goals without sacrificing operational efficiency.

Q. How can professionals in the industry adapt to these changes?

The transition to more sustainable port operations is a complex process, especially since day-to-day operations remain a priority. Nevertheless, this change is inevitable and represents a costly long-term investment in initiatives such as the circular economy and new fuel supply systems.

A key strategy is to provide continuous training to current professionals, focusing on new energy technologies and their operational implications. Training in the management of refuelling stations for alternative fuels and the logistical planning of green corridors is essential to ensure that professionals can adapt without losing operational efficiency.

Moreover, enhancing intermodal capabilities by improving rail and sea highway connections is crucial. Training professionals to manage these systems effectively and plan for their integration into port operations will be key to achieving more sustainable logistics and reducing the carbon footprint of transportation.

Q: Can you tell us about the realistic game simulations you’re working on under the Green Marine Med Project?

The simulator we are developing under the Green Marine Med Project, in collaboration with PortWise, aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the various variables that influence the strategy for planning an energy transition in a port. Unlike a digital twin, which focuses on analyzing and controlling operational decisions or evaluating real-world scenarios, our simulator enables professionals to grasp how different factors interact and affect the energy transition holistically.

This helps to create more informed and strategic planning, allowing port professionals to identify best practices and anticipate challenges in the transition toward more sustainable operations.

Q: What skills will be important for professionals working in sustainable ports?

In a greener and more sustainable port, key competencies will include a solid understanding of new energy technologies, such as electric systems and alternative fuel management, as well as data analysis skills to optimize operations. Digital competencies, particularly in the use of energy management and monitoring systems, will also be essential.

In addition, the ability to manage energy transition projects and collaborate across sectors with regulators, energy suppliers, and customers will be critical to ensuring a smooth transition to more sustainable operations. Improving intermodal transport systems, such as rail and sea highways, will also require professionals to develop logistics planning skills that align with the EU’s Fit for 55 and Green Deal 2050 objectives.

Mediterranean Green Shipping Network: Linking Ports, Industries, Investment and Innovation for Monitoring and Technology Foresight on Green Shipping in the Mediterranean.

Escola Europea and Portwise sign a collaboration agreement to develop a serious game / simulator on energy transition plans in ports

/in , ,

Barcelona, August 27, 2024 – The Escola Europea and Portwise have signed an agreement to jointly develop an innovative serious game / simulator as part of the GREEN MARINE MED project, an initiative co-financed by the European Union focused on promoting energy transition plans in Mediterranean ports.

Mediterranean Green Shipping Network: Linking Ports, Industries, Investment and Innovation for Monitoring and Technology Foresight on Green Shipping in the Mediterranean.

The Escola Europea will lead the development of the simulator, while Portwise, with its expertise in terminal logistics consulting and simulation, will provide technical support in calculations and modelling. The objective is to create a simulator that balances realism and simplicity, allowing participants to make strategic decisions in implementing energy transition plans in ports within a competitive and environmentally responsible framework.

This agreement also opens a broader framework for collaboration between both institutions for future projects and training activities in the port, sustainability, and simulation sectors. Both organizations reaffirm their commitment to continuous improvement in the logistics sector and to creating more efficient and environmentally friendly solutions.

The GREEN MARINE MED project unites the Mediterranean Green Shipping Network, representing the full value chain, including vessel communities, ports, marinas, fuel and energy sectors, finance, investment, innovation, and other stakeholders. This Network forms the foundation for a comprehensive Monitoring and Technology Foresight on Mediterranean Green Shipping. Through the project’s unique accelerators and business support programmes, Green Shipping entrepreneurs and start-ups in the region will be empowered. The project has a budget of €1.1 million, with an 80% contribution from the European Union.

Portwise, originally part of TBA Group, is a world leader in consultancy and simulation for terminal logistics, with a focus on global efficiency and sustainability.

This project not only aims to foster learning but also to prepare participants for future challenges in implementing energy transition plans in ports.x

For more information, please contact: Alex Ariza (academicmanager@escolaeuroea.eu).

 

 

 

This project has received funding from the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund under the EMFAF-2023-PIA-FLAGSHIP Call- Agreement No.: 101124818. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. 

Participants of the first Training of Trainers going Digital course of PVL in Tunis - July 2024

Port Virtual Lab takes the Training of Trainers course to new heights

/in , , ,

The special edition of the Training of Trainers: Going Digital course of Port Virtual Lab was recently concluded, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance industry skills and knowledge. The course, held from the 1st to the 4th of July 2024, brought together representatives from leading training centers, providing a platform for in-depth learning and professional development.

Participants of the first Training of Trainers going Digital course of PVL in Tunis - July 2024

During the training, participants engaged with the Port Virtual Lab (PVL) universe and the Click and Cargo platform, gaining a comprehensive understanding of its features and applications. The hands-on sessions enabled attendees to explore the platform’s capabilities in managing port logistics and operations, demonstrating its potential to streamline processes and improve operational efficiency in a simulated environment. It gave them the opportunity to visualise what it would be like to use the tool as an aide in their training centres, and help prepare the students for the real-life operations and challenges of transport operations planning.

A key highlight of the event was the networking opportunities it afforded. Representatives from various training centers and industry professionals exchanged insights, best practices, and innovative ideas, fostering a collaborative environment that is essential for the advancement of the sector. These interactions are expected to lead to stronger partnerships and future collaborations.

The course also featured expert-led discussions and practical exercises designed to equip participants with the skills necessary to implement the PVL platform in their respective organisations. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the detailed and practical nature of the training.

Looking forward, the Escola Europea is committed to organising more training sessions that will further promote the adoption of innovative tools like the the PVL platform. These future courses will continue to support industry professionals in staying ahead of technological advancements, thereby contributing to the overall growth and modernisation of port logistics.

Check out the video summarising the highlights of the course, and get in touch if you’d like to know more about the platform and it’s capabilities: