Escola Europea at SIL 2025: A Milestone Week for Innovation and Collaboration

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Yesterday marked an exciting start to SIL Barcelona 2025 for the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport and the PLIKA community. Our first day at the fair featured a packed session at MedaLogistics titled “The Future of Mediterranean Supply Chain: Digital & Green Transformation”, where our colleague Orlando Reveco explored how digital tools are shaping a more efficient, sustainable supply chain across the region. The event brought together industry leaders, fostering rich discussion and fresh ideas around collaboration and innovation in the Mediterranean corridor.

Today promises even more action and recognition. Starting at 10:30, our Academic Director Marta Miquel will moderate the session “Seizing Africa’s Logistics Infrastructure Potential,” joined by Eduard Rodés, who will share how education and digitalisation can drive logistics transformation across the African continent. Later in the morning, visitors can join two hands-on workshops at the Port of Barcelona stand: the first explores the role of artificial intelligence in logistics and transport, with Orlando Reveco; the second, led by Marta Miquel, introduces the Port Virtual Lab and how simulation and gamification are enhancing maritime and intermodal logistics training. And at 13:25, tune in to La Ciutat on Onda Cero, where Eduard Rodés will speak live from the central corridor of SIL.

We’re also thrilled to announce that Escola Europea will be receiving an Innovation Award today—an important recognition of our ongoing commitment to transforming logistics education through digital tools like PVL and our international training programmes.

If you’re at SIL, be sure to visit our stand to discover our latest initiatives and pick up a special surprise if you’re part of our alumni network. Let’s continue building the future of sustainable, interconnected logistics—together.

Port Professionals Unite for Innovation and Immersive Learning at the PLIKA II Annual Event

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The Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy (PLIKA) marked a major milestone with its II Annual Event, titled “Growing Together: A PLIKA Simulation Experience,” held on the 18th of June 2025 in Barcelona and online. Hosted by Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, the event gathered professionals, educators, and innovators from the Mediterranean’s port logistics ecosystem and beyond to celebrate progress, share insights, and experience the future of immersive learning through the Port Virtual Lab (PVL) Flash simulation.

Founded with the mission to connect port professionals, promote international collaboration, and foster continuous education through digital tools, PLIKA has become a thriving community of practice, counting 66+ members across institutions and regions, including recent additions like SAMK University of Applied Sciences (Finland) and the Port Network Authority of the Northern Tyrrhenian Sea (Italy).

Simulation as a Bridge Between Learning and Real-World Complexity

At the heart of the day’s activities was the Port Virtual Lab Flash challenge-an interactive, gamified simulation designed to mirror real-world logistics decision-making. In this edition, participants were grouped into teams and challenged to compare multimodal transport solutions for delivering a CNC milling machine from Cairo, Egypt to Bari, Italy, taking into account cost, CO₂ emissions, and delivery time.

Using PVL’s immersive interface, participants evaluated sea, air, and combined transport routes by working with realistic data from simulated freight companies such as Playforwarding Barcelona, inspired by real-world freight forwarders. The scenario tested not only technical logistics knowledge but also decision-making under pressure, critical thinking, and teamwork.

The simulation concluded with a competitive debrief, analysis of the top-performing teams, and the announcement of the winning group by Mr. Abdessalam Obeidat (Aqaba Development Corporation), followed by final reflections from Mr. Rabih Sabra (Chamber of Commerce, Beirut) and Ms. Taheya Elsherbeny (Port Training Institute, AASTMT).

The event opened with a warm welcome from Mr. Eduard Rodés, President of PLIKA and Director of Escola Europea, who emphasized the academy’s commitment to innovation and inclusive education. Prof. Alaa Morsy, Vice President of PLIKA, highlighted how the community is growing stronger through regional engagement and partnerships with maritime and academic institutions.

Ms. Ana Rumbeu, Director of Training at Fundación Valenciaport and PLIKA Vice President, delivered a forward-looking presentation on the evolution of training frameworks in logistics and the skills required in the face of automation, digitalisation, and global shifts.

“Every new relationship we build here brings us closer to transforming the port logistics industry and leading change. Together, we can achieve great things” – Ana Rumbeu, Fundación Valenciaport

Meanwhile, Ms. Valeria Munar, PLIKA Community Builder at Escola Europea, showcased the growing momentum of PLIKA initiatives-from newsletters and monthly “Words of the Month” to the highly successful PLIKERS Innovation Hackathon and webinars on AI and Mediterranean cooperation.

What’s Next for PLIKA?

“Today’s event was a true celebration of the spirit of collaboration, learning, and community that defines PLIKA. It reflected the richness of diverse perspectives and shared values across the borders of the Euro-Mediterranean region.”

– Rabih Sabra, Director General – Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Beirut & Mount Lebanon

Looking ahead, PLIKA aims to expand its reach through more collaborative simulations, new learning modules powered by PVL-including rail and air freight-and a stronger presence in the Mediterranean and global South. Plans are already underway for the 2026 edition of the Annual Event, with a continued focus on bridging education, simulation, and sustainable logistics .By democratizing access to experiential learning, PLIKA continues to empower a new generation of logistics professionals-ready to lead with competence, confidence, and collaboration.

Bridging Shores, Empowering Minds: Escola Europea Showcases Innovation and Education at LogisMed Casablanca

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From 13 to 15 May 2025, the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport brought its vision for a smarter, more connected logistics ecosystem to Casablanca, taking part in the 12th edition of LogisMed — Morocco’s largest logistics fair. The Foire Internationale de Casablanca became a vibrant crossroads of cultures and ideas, where port communities, innovators, and educators came together to imagine the logistics of tomorrow.

Representing the Escola were Alessia Mastromattei, Country Manager for Italy, and Oumkhelthoum Imigine, Projects Coordinator, who carried with them not just tools and brochures — but stories, partnerships, and a mission. At the Escola’s stand — shared with long-standing partners from the ports of Genoa, Palermo, Rome, and Barcelona, as well as Grimaldi Lines and GNV — visitors were welcomed into a Mediterranean alliance built on collaboration between public and private sectors. A living example of what it means to work across borders, languages, and perspectives.

The spotlight was on the Port Virtual Lab (PVL) — an innovative simulator developed by the Escola to bring logistics education into the digital age. Through gamified experiences and real-world scenarios, PVL helps young talents and professionals gain practical insights into port operations and supply chain management. It’s not just a tool — it’s a bridge between classrooms and quaysides.

“What struck me the most at LogisMed was the energy — the genuine curiosity of students, the passion of educators, and the openness of industry leaders ready to collaborate across borders,” said Alessia Mastromattei. “Every conversation felt like a doorway to something new. We didn’t just present our tools — we connected with people who believe, like us, that education is the engine of transformation in the logistics world.”

For the Escola, events like LogisMed are more than just exhibitions — they are a testament to its core values: training, innovation, and cross-border cooperation. With every fair, course, and connection, the Escola reaffirms its commitment to empowering the next generation of logistics professionals — equipping them with the tools, networks, and inspiration they need to transform the sector.

A Decade of Impact: ARETÉ Awards honour key figures behind Forma’t al Port

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On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Forma’t al Port programme, the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, together with the Barcelona Port Community, recognised two individuals whose vision and dedication were instrumental in shaping its success. On 15 May 2025, Mr Joaquim Cabané and Ms Marisa Clavero received the ARETÉ – EXCELLENCE awards in honour of their outstanding contributions to the programme and the wider logistics-port education ecosystem.

Joaquim Cabané: Architect of Collaboration

Mr Joaquim Cabané was honoured for his decisive role in the creation and development of the Training and Employment Working Group under the Governing Board of the Port of Barcelona, as well as for his contributions to the Forma’t al Port programme.

From the very beginning, Mr Cabané provided consistent, rigorous, and generous leadership. As Chair of the Working Group, he brought a global vision shaped by his extensive experience at the helm of Coma i Ribas, a company that spans nearly all professional profiles within the logistics-port sector.

He undertook his responsibilities with a constructive and exemplary spirit. His active engagement included personally visiting training centres to encourage their participation in the programme, thereby strengthening the link between education and industry.

Under his leadership, the Working Group became a true space for collaboration among public institutions, companies, and educational centres. Simultaneously, Forma’t al Port grew into a benchmark initiative, recognised both locally and beyond.

The award was presented by Mr José Alberto Carbonell, President of the Port of Barcelona.

Marisa Clavero: A Legacy of Educational Innovation

Ms Marisa Clavero received the ARETÉ – EXCELLENCE award in recognition of her lifelong dedication to educational excellence and her pioneering role in shaping maritime and intermodal transport training.

Her involvement preceded the launch of Forma’t al Port, as she was instrumental—through her work at eCAT Lluïsa Cura and with the support of its director, Maria Creus—in promoting the participation of higher vocational training centres in European intermodality initiatives, such as the Marco Polo Programme.

Ms Clavero consistently demonstrated an insatiable curiosity and a deep enthusiasm for discovering new methodologies and tools for her students. She approached each new challenge with remarkable generosity, tenacity, and a constructive spirit.

She played a vital role in the development of both Forma’t al Port and the Port Virtual Lab – two milestones that would not have been achieved without her vision and commitment.

As she enters a new chapter in her career, the Escola expressed its deepest appreciation through this award, highlighting her enduring legacy and impact.

The award was presented by Mr Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport.

 

Recognising Excellence among Forma’t al Port Collaborators

In addition to the presentation of the ARETÉ – EXCELLENCE awards, the ceremony also served as a heartfelt tribute to all those who have played a pivotal role in the growth and evolution of Forma’t al Port over the past decade. From institutional partners and educators to industry mentors and collaborators, each individual and organisation recognised during the event has contributed to transforming the programme into a flagship initiative for vocational training and professional development in the port and logistics sectors.

About the ARETÉ – EXCELLENCE Award

Since its foundation, the Escola has upheld a symbol of quality to distinguish those individuals and institutions whose work and commitment have supported its educational mission. Inspired by the classical Greek concept of areté—the pursuit of excellence in physical, intellectual, and moral dimensions—the ARETÉ awards were created to formalise this recognition.

The ARETÉ – EXCELLENCE distinction is conferred on training centres, institutions, and their representatives or collaborators who exemplify these values and have contributed decisively to the development of the Escola’s programmes.

What makes artificial intelligence unique in the port logistics sector?

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In this #DidYouKnow blog post, we explore how artificial intelligence adapts to the specific needs of the logistics and port industry, and how it can improve the management of people, operations, and administrative processes in these highly specialized environments.

The Digital Revolution Is Reaching Our Ports

In recent years, ports have evolved from being just points of entry and exit for goods into living labs for technological innovation. Digital transformation is reshaping the rules of the game in transport and logistics—and one of the most powerful and promising developments is the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).

From predictive systems to process automation tools, AI is proving its value in enhancing operational efficiency. But when it comes to the logistics-port environment, AI applications take on very specific characteristics that are worth exploring.

What Makes AI in Logistics and Port Transport So Unique?

Unlike other sectors, logistics and port transport involve:

  • Complex, highly regulated operational environments
  • Constant interaction between multiple actors (authorities, freight forwarders, terminal operators, shipping lines…)
  • Real-time processing of vast amounts of data
  • A critical need for speed, efficiency, and traceability

AI can help address many of these challenges. Whether optimizing routes and fleet management, predicting demand, or automating customs documentation, its applications are growing fast.

But What About People Management?

When we talk about AI in logistics, we tend to think about automating physical processes. But AI is also reshaping how we manage people across the sector.

In an environment where technical profiles are in high demand and staff turnover is high, using tools that support onboarding, motivation, and talent retention can make a substantial difference.

Generative AI, for example, can:

  • Create personalized training content
  • Automate responses to frequently asked employee questions
  • Analyze performance and workplace climate in real time

Escola Europea’s Commitment

At Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, we believe digitalization is not just a trend—it’s a strategic imperative for the present and future of the port logistics sector.

Our long-standing experience in intermodal training has allowed us to observe how technology is reshaping the operations, management, and culture of logistics organizations across the Mediterranean and beyond.

That’s why, years ago, we launched initiatives like the Port Virtual Lab, a pioneering digital simulator for hands-on training in international trade and port logistics. But we haven’t stopped there.

We’re now integrating generative AI (GAI) content into several of our training tracks:

  • Marketing and sales
  • People and talent management
  • Financial decision-making and automation of administrative processes
  • Planning and optimization of port and logistics operations

Our goal is clear: empower logistics and port professionals to lead digital transformation with an ethical, strategic, and hands-on mindset.

Because digital transformation isn’t just about adopting tools—it’s about rethinking how we manage, learn, and lead.

Conclusion: A Transformation That Begins with People

In a world where technology evolves at breakneck speed, its true value lies in how we apply it. AI alone doesn’t transform organizations—people do.

That’s why, in port logistics, training is essential. Understanding how AI works in our industry helps us ensure a digital future that’s both meaningful and responsible, built around real challenges and real people.

A 2,000-Year Journey: A Roman Amphora Arrives at the Escola Europea’s classroom

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At the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, we are always exploring new ways to make education immersive and meaningful. This week, we took a symbolic leap into the past with the addition of a unique historical artifact to our training space: an original Roman amphora recovered from the Illes Formigues I shipwreck site off the coast of Palamós.

Thanks to a collaboration with the Consorci de les Drassanes Reials i Museu Marítim de Barcelona, the amphora has been entrusted to the Escola in a renewable four-year loan. It is now on display in the Aula dels Estels, located in the Drassanes terminal of the Port of Barcelona—one of our main training classrooms.

Intermodality Across Millennia

This ovoid amphora (Haltern 70 type, small/early variant) now forms part of our Forma’t al Port training programme, which covers port terminal operations, intermodal transport, and logistics. By integrating this ancient container into our teaching, we aim to draw a direct line between past and present logistics practices.

Amphorae were once standardised cargo transport vessels, not unlike today’s containers or semi-trailers. Their use in the ancient Mediterranean is a powerful reminder that intermodality has deep historical roots.

Logistics in Service of Heritage

The transfer and installation of the amphora were managed with utmost care by TM2, a company specialising in industrial packaging solutions. Their team designed a custom-built security box, applied specialist protective materials, and arranged safe transport from the Maritime Museum to our facility—ensuring the artifact’s integrity throughout the journey.

This operation highlights how modern logistics can support the preservation and dissemination of cultural heritage.

The “Amphora Operation” is more than a symbolic gesture—it reflects our commitment to educational innovation, sustainability, and the dialogue between ancient wisdom and modern logistics.

A Milestone Event

To mark the arrival of the amphora, an official event was held at the Drassanes terminal with representatives from all participating organisations:

  • Enric García, Director, Museu Marítim de Barcelona
  • Eduard Rodés, Director, Escola Europea
  • Francesc Bonada, Head of Organisation and Sustainability, Port of Barcelona
  • M. Dolors Jurado Jiménez, Head of Collection Management, Museu Marítim
  • Mònica Jiménez, Director, TM2
  • Marta Miquel, BDO, Escola Europea
  • Reyes Durá, Head of Administration, Escola Europea
  • Carmen Sánchez, Sustainability Officer, Port of Barcelona

From Ancient Markings to Modern Maps

Beyond exhibition purposes, this initiative opens new avenues for education and research. The Escola will explore ancient systems of identification and sealing used on amphorae—historical equivalents to modern tracking codes and security seals.

In parallel, our team will investigate ancient amphora production sites near Barcelona, developing maps and infographics that visualise their commercial networks and manufacturing footprint in antiquity.

Escola Europea and The Propeller Club Barcelona Renew Partnership for Maritime Training

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A decade of collaboration to strengthen industry-education links and prepare future logistics professionals

The Escola Europea and The Propeller Club of Barcelona have renewed their long-standing partnership to continue supporting maritime and logistics training through the “Vine al Port” programme. This marks ten years of collaboration since the launch of Forma’t al Port, a key initiative that has helped bridge the gap between education and industry in the Port of Barcelona.

The renewed agreement, signed by Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea, and Gonzalo Sanchis, President of The Propeller Club Barcelona, reinforces the shared commitment to fostering talent, enhancing industry knowledge, and promoting professional development within the logistics and port sectors.

Key Highlights of the Renewal

The Propeller Club will continue to support “Vine al Port” and its core initiatives, including:

  • Forma’t al Port – Practical training workshops for logistics and maritime students.
  • Aprenem Junts – Industry internships for teachers to gain hands-on experience.
  • Talent Programme – Connecting students with career opportunities in the sector.
  • Benvingut al Port – Induction sessions for new professionals joining the port community.

Additionally, The Propeller Club will contribute €2,000 annually in student scholarships over the next three years to facilitate participation in these training programmes.

A Continued Commitment to Industry-Education Collaboration

Since its inception, Forma’t al Port has provided thousands of students with first-hand insights into port operations, intermodal transport, and logistics management, helping to shape the next generation of maritime professionals.

“This renewal reaffirms our joint mission to equip young professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the logistics and maritime sectors,” said Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea. “Over the past decade, The Propeller Club has been a key partner in making this possible, and we are excited to continue working together to strengthen industry-education links.”

With this agreement, Escola Europea and The Propeller Club Barcelona reinforce their role in developing talent and supporting the future of the port and logistics industries.

Stay tuned for upcoming activities and opportunities under the “Vine al Port” programme!

Port Virtual Lab (PVL) recognized by the European Commission as a key simulation-based training programme

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Port Virtual Lab recognized by the European Commission as a key simulation-based training program for developing competencies in the blue economy

 

Port Virtual Lab (PVL) has been highlighted as a best practice in blue skills training in the Study to Support and Design Skills Development in the Blue Economy, commissioned by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE) and CINEA. The study identifies PVL as an innovative, technology–driven, and practical learning tool crucial for developing competencies in the blue economy.

Currently in its pilot phase, PVL is refining and expanding its training capabilities through hands-on collaboration with academic institutions and industry partners. Developed by Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, the platform provides an advanced digital learning environment where participants can simulate and solve complex logistics challenges. This methodology fosters an immersive approach to learning, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.

The study underscores the increasing importance of simulation-based training in enhancing blue skills development. These innovative approaches create realistic, interactive scenarios that replicate actual industry conditions, improving decision-making and problem-solving abilities. Furthermore, gamification, blended learning, and e-learning platforms were identified as crucial elements in modern training programs. PVL integrates these methods by offering modular and flexible learning experiences, accommodating the needs of students, professionals, and industry stakeholders alike.

By combining simulation-based training with strong academia-industry collaboration, Port Virtual Lab plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of maritime and logistics professionals. As PVL progresses through its pilot phase, participating institutions have the unique opportunity to be early adopters, helping shape the platform’s development while benefiting from an exclusive introductory experience.

Escola Europea Expands Mediterranean Training and Digital Innovation at MARLOG-14

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The Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport played an active role in MARLOG-14, the International Maritime and Logistics Conference held in Alexandria, Egypt, bringing its expertise in digital innovation, virtual learning and intermodal logistics training to the global stage.

Representing the Escola, Director Eduard Rodés engaged in insightful discussions with key industry figures and policymakers, including a meeting with the President of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT). Their discussions explored future collaborations in maritime education and training, reinforcing the shared mission of advancing logistics knowledge and fostering innovation within the sector.

A key moment of the conference was the presentation of Port Virtual Lab (PVL), the Escola’s groundbreaking digital learning platform designed to enhance training for logistics and maritime professionals. For the first time, PVL’s exclusive training catalogue was piloted, allowing conference attendees to explore the methodology and vision behind the immersive learning platform.

During the event, the Escola also strengthened its ties with the Port Training Institute (PTI) through meetings with Alaa Morsy, fostering discussions on expanding collaboration between PTI and PVL. This growing partnership aims to integrate innovative training methodologies and digital learning solutions into PTI’s educational framework, reinforcing a shared vision for the future of maritime and logistics training in the region. During the meeting, PTI also signed on to become an ambassador of the Port Virtual Lab platform – committing to promoting and representing the platform in the Middle East.

“Port Virtual Lab is more than just a simulator—it is a tool that bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing students and professionals to engage with real-world logistics scenarios in a controlled environment,” said Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea. “By showcasing PVL at MARLOG-14, we are demonstrating its potential to transform how logistics education is delivered, making it more accessible, flexible, and practical for professionals worldwide.”

Beyond PVL, the Escola’s commitment to innovation was further emphasized through the Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy (PLIKA). As part of the conference’s parallel events, PLIKA, under the presidency of Eduard Rodés, organized a highly successful Hackathon, bringing together students and professionals to tackle real-world logistics challenges. This hands-on initiative highlighted the role of collaborative problem-solving in shaping the future of port and transport operations.

Additionally, the MEDports Promotion Committee convened during MARLOG-14, bringing together representatives from Mediterranean ports to discuss strategies for promoting sustainable maritime development and training initiatives. As an active member of MEDports, the Escola continues to support regional cooperation and capacity-building efforts that enhance the competitiveness and digitalization of Mediterranean port operations.

With its participation in MARLOG-14, the Escola Europea reaffirmed its position as a leader in intermodal logistics training, digital education, and industry and digital innovation. The connections and insights gained during the conference will further strengthen the Escola’s role in driving sustainable and technology-driven advancements in port logistics and supply chain management.

Escola awards the Areté Excellence distinction to Antonio Pedevilla of Grandi Navi Veloci

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In an emotional ceremony held at the headquarters of the Port Authority of Barcelona, Antonio Pedevilla, a member of the Escola Europea’s executive board for 18 years and a key figure in the maritime sector, received the Areté Excellence distinction. This award recognises the dedication, commitment, and efforts of individuals who have contributed to the growth and development of the Escola Europea.

The award was presented by José Alberto Carbonell, president of the Port of Barcelona and the Escola Europea, in the presence of Eduard Rodés, director of the Escola; Matteo de Candia, director of GNV Spain and successor to Antonio Pedevilla on the executive board; Simone Del Vecchio, also from GNV; and Marta Miquel from the Escola Europea.

In addition to being one of the driving forces behind the Escola’s first training courses, Antonio Pedevilla stood out as a professor and ambassador of the organisation, working closely with Grandi Navi Veloci under the presidencies of Aldo Grimaldi, Roberto Martinoli, and Matteo Catani. His work was essential in facilitating the delivery of courses onboard GNV vessels, making him a key figure in the Escola’s internationalisation efforts in Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco, and contributing to the success of its training programmes.

During the ceremony, Eduard Rodés stated: “With our gratitude, recognition, and friendship, we hope Antonio receives this distinction with the same affection with which we present it today. His legacy will continue to inspire those of us who are part of this great family.”

The event also marked the beginning of a new chapter with the appointment of Matteo de Candia to the Escola Europea’s executive board, further strengthening Grandi Navi Veloci’s commitment to education in the port logistics sector.

It is worth noting that previous recipients of this prestigious award include Joaquim Coello (founding president), Aldo Grimaldi (president of GNV – in memoriam), Luigi Ranauro (founding board member representing Grimaldi), Sixte Cambra (president of the Port of Barcelona), and José Anselmo Laranjeira (DG-MOVE of the European Union).

With this distinction, the Escola Europea reaffirms its mission to recognise and honour individuals who, through their dedication, drive excellence and sustainability in logistics and intermodal transport.