Escola Europea and the Northern Central Tyrrhenian Sea Port Authority Renew Their Commitment to Maritime Education

/in , ,

In the photo (L to R): Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport; and Pino Musolino – President of the Northern Central Tyrrhenian Sea Port Authority

In a significant development for maritime and intermodal transport education, Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport has extended its partnership with the Northern Central Tyrrhenian Sea Port Authority for an additional three years, spanning from 2024 to 2026. This renewal marks a continued commitment to the “Rome Port Academy” project, a pioneering initiative designed to educate both students and professionals about the intricacies of maritime logistics and port operations. The agreement is expected to open up numerous educational and professional development opportunities. By targeting both students pursuing maritime studies and professionals looking to enhance their skills, the program aims to cater to a wide audience interested in maritime and intermodal transport.

The Rome Port Academy project, known for its innovative approach to maritime education, serves as a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application. By combining classroom learning with hands-on experiences, the programme aims to prepare participants for the complexities of the maritime industry, emphasizing sustainable logistics practices and the efficient management of port operations.

A Focus on Sustainable Logistics

Sustainability remains at the forefront of this collaboration, with both Escola Europea and the Northern Central Tyrrhenian Sea Port Authority highlighting their dedication to promoting eco-friendly practices within the maritime sector. This partnership not only seeks to educate future professionals about the importance of sustainability in logistics but also aims to implement sustainable practices within the framework of the Rome Port Academy.

Educational Opportunities and Professional Development

The renewal of this partnership is seen as a crucial step in developing the next generation of maritime professionals. Through the Rome Port Academy, participants will gain a deep understanding of port operations, logistics, and the global maritime industry, equipping them with the skills necessary to navigate the challenges of the 21st century. As the partnership enters its new phase, both organisations express their enthusiasm for the future of maritime education. By continuing to invest in innovative educational projects like the Rome Port Academy, they reaffirm their commitment to shaping the future of the maritime industry, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, professional development, and operational efficiency.

The renewed collaboration between the Escola Europea and the Northern Central Tyrrhenian Sea Port Authority underscores a shared vision for advancing maritime education and fostering a new generation of professionals equipped to tackle the challenges of modern-day logistics and port management. As this partnership moves forward, the Civitavecchia maritime industry can anticipate a positive impact on both educational standards and sustainable practices within the sector.

Aragón Boosts Rail Transport in the Intermodal Logistics Chain with the SURCO Training Course

/in , ,

The second edition of the SURCO Aragón course concluded with total success: all offered places were filled, and there was active participation from 26 professionals from Aragón, Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia.

The SURCO courses – Simple Use of Railway Connections – delve into intermodal rail operations within ports and rail terminals, focusing on the characteristics and advantages of this type of transport. In this second edition of the SURCO Aragón training, held from February 5 to 16, 2024, between Zaragoza, Barcelona, and Perpignan, professionals from different cities of different regions gathered to share the fundamental elements of rail logistics and apply them to reality through visits to operators and by solving a practical case. On this occasion, the training was organized and created in collaboration with ALIA – the logistics cluster based in Zaragoza – and with the support of companies such as the Maritime Terminal of Zaragoza, the Port of Barcelona, VIIA, Renfe, SLISA, Aragón Logistical Platform, ADIF, and the terminals of LFP Le Perthus, Morrot, and APM Terminals.

In this edition, the 26 participating professionals from different public administrations such as the General Directorate of Transport of Aragón, Aragón Logistical Platform, and the Army; freight transport companies, freight forwarders, and import and export companies from the Aragón community, as well as others interested in the use of rail transport, were able to apply and understand the different elements necessary to offer efficient solutions through rail in the multimodal chain.

This training programme aligns with the objectives set by the European Union to promote the use of rail highways and the overall increase in train traffic, as part of a strategy to promote sustainable mobility in the region. In this context, acquiring knowledge about the different aspects related to freight rail transport is not only advantageous for students and professionals but also essential for companies involved in this sector. Therefore, the availability of educational courses and programmes with both a local and international focus, such as that offered by SURCO Aragón, is particularly relevant.

The theoretical sessions focused on key topics such as the management of rail systems, the European TEN-T, the impact of rail transport on the environment, contracting and international rail transport, and the analysis of the costs of rail transport chains.

To reinforce theoretical learning, the programme incorporated various visits to key railway infrastructures at the border between Spain and France, such as the truck rail terminal at Le Boulou by ViiA, the Maritime Terminal of Zaragoza, the ADIF PLAZA intermodal terminal, the Figueras-Perpignan line tunnel at Le Perthus, the Morrot rail terminal, the ADIF traffic control center in Zaragoza, and the APM Terminals container terminal.

The course also included a practical team project, which offered participants the opportunity to apply and fully understand the knowledge acquired during the course.

For more information about the Escola and its railway courses, please visit the SURCO section of our website.

The Escola Europea Leads Executive Port Management Course, Sharing Innovation and Sustainability with Ports in Brazil and Angola

/in , ,

The intensive course successfully concluded this week, contributing to the training of port leaders for a sustainable and technologically advanced future in Brazil and Angola.

The Executive Port Management course for port executives from Brazil and Angola, which took place in Barcelona from February 19 to 23, 2024, ended on a high note, leaving a significant mark on the international port industry. With a focus on port strategy and sustainability, the course was a melting pot of knowledge, experiences, and advanced management practices, aimed at fostering innovation and efficiency in the port sector.

Organized by the Escola Europea, an entity recognized for its excellence in training in transport and intermodal logistics, and with the support of FAPEU (Foundation for Research and University Extension), the Federal University of Santa Caterina, and CIDESPORT (International Congress on Port Performance), the course was attended by executives and senior officials from prestigious institutions. Among them were representatives from UNISUL/FAPEU, various professionals from the Port of Paranaguá, members of the Paula Souza Center – FATEC Americana, Port of Suape, and the Dock Company of Bahia (CODEBA), as well as executives from the Terminal Management Society, S.A. (SOGESTER) of Angola.

The programme was designed to cover critical aspects and global trends of international trade and maritime transport, port governance, the application of port strategies, and their commitments to environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Participants delved into the management of terminal concessions, nautical services, and the improvement of port hinterland intermodality, all within the vision of ports as engines of growth and sustainable development.

A highlight of the course was the series of organized visits to critical infrastructures, which included port services such as pilots, moorings, and Marpol services (TMA); logistical services at railway and vehicle terminals Autoterminal, the Logistics Activities Zone, the BEST container terminal, as well as the nautical business through a visit to the Marina Barcelona 92 complex. These practical experiences allowed attendees to observe the application of theory in real environments and understand the importance of the port community and its development with the energy transition, port digitalization, port-city relationship management, as well as environmental quality control.

Innovation was also a main driver of the training with the aim of designing strategies that integrate technological innovation and sustainability, preparing leaders to address current and future challenges of the industry. Additionally, the management of safety and cybersecurity, key elements in maintaining the global supply chain, was addressed.

The closing ceremony, which included the awarding of diplomas, reflected the commitment of the Escola and the participants to excellence and continuous improvement. The success of the course is measured not only in the knowledge imparted but also in the bonds created among professionals, which will surely lead to joint initiatives and future projects.

Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport Pioneers Advanced Customs Procedures with Executive Training Success

/in , ,

This Tuesday January 30th 2024, the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport has successfully completed the specialized course, “Executive Strategy for Customs: Tools, procedures and compliance for a risk reduction in Customs Procedures.” The course, conducted in Spanish, was uniquely designed to meet the intricate needs of international trade and customs procedures. Over an intensive two-week period, the programme bridged theoretical knowledge with practical applications. It drew a spectrum of professionals from various respected firms, including KH LLOREDA, S.A., CMA CGM IBERICA, GRIMALDI LOGISTICA ESPAÑA SL, and Adidas, to name a few. This helped foster an environment where shared knowledge and experiences enriched the learning process.

Tailored to empower professionals, the course’s curriculum was meticulously crafted to analyse the various customs elements involved in international trade processes, acquaint participants with the latest IT tools, and streamline operational modalities. It strategically focused on promoting operational compliance and minimizing customs risks, addressing the complexities of customs operations in the contemporary regulatory landscape. More specifically, it aimed to:

  • Provide a comprehensive analysis of the customs elements integral to global commerce.
  • Equip professionals with advanced informatic tools and knowledge of operational procedures to effectively manage customs risks.
  • Instil a robust compliance framework within customs operations, enhancing the efficiency and legal integrity of trade practices.

During the training, participants could apply what they learned in real-world scenarios due to the practical workshops which offered hands-on experience with visits to the PIF (Point of Inspection at the Border), container inspection workshops, scanner inspections, terminal operations, and customs visits. These workshops were engineered to mirror the realities professionals face, providing them with the acumen to navigate customs with greater confidence and expertise; a testament to the course’s practical relevance and immediate impact on professional standards.

The instructional team was composed of esteemed industry professionals and customs officials, ensuring the teachings were grounded in current practices and real-world demands. The educators brought with them a wealth of knowledge from their extensive experience within the sector, contributing to a curriculum that was both relevant and authoritative. Their expertise, coupled with the course’s interactive elements, provided a comprehensive learning journey that both challenged and equipped the participants with the skills necessary for proficiency in contemporary customs procedures.

“The calibre of participation and the depth of engagement from our attendees have been outstanding. It is inspiring to witness professionals and customs officials coming together to not only learn but also to shape the future of customs operations. Their dedication to excellence is a powerful affirmation of the course’s value and our signature teaching approach.”

(Alex Ariza, Academic Manager at the Escola Europea and Coordinator for the course)

The Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport takes pride in its commitment to educational excellence and industry relevance through its signature as well as custom-designed courses (such as this one). The successful completion of the “Executive Strategy for Customs Procedures” course marks another milestone in its mission to deliver specialized training tailored to the needs of the logistics and transportation sectors. Looking to the future, the Escola Europea continues to innovate and adapt its educational offerings, ensuring that professionals remain at the forefront of industry developments and best practices.

Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport Forges Strategic Partnership with STC Group to Enhance Intermodal Training Opportunities

/in , ,

In the photo (left to right): Ramon van Hal, lecturer and specialist in port logistics; Hans Wentink, Director, STC Group; Eduard Rodés, Director, Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport; Marta Miquel, Chief Business Officer, Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport

The Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, a renowned European centre for logistics and intermodal transport training, is proud to announce a new partnership with the STC Group, the main training institute in the Port of Rotterdam led by its Director, Hans Wentink, and supported by Ramon van Hal, a distinguished Lecturer specialising in port logistics.

This dynamic collaboration marks the framework for a collaboration which started seven years ago and it is now stated as key for both institutions. This agreement defines a journey to enrich the intermodal training landscape by bringing together two influential institutions dedicated to education and industry excellence.

Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea, expressed his enthusiasm for this collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to join forces with the STC Group. This partnership opens up vast opportunities for students in Rotterdam and Barcelona, allowing them to explore the intricacies of maritime and intermodal transport. Together, we aim to foster innovation and cultivate the next generation of logistics leaders.”

During a day of intensive discussions and facility presentations, the Escola Europea team showcased their facilities to the Dutch experts. The result of these fruitful deliberations is a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that outlines several key objectives:

  • Establishing an institutional framework to facilitate collaboration on international and European projects, aimed at developing new training programmes and enhancing student mobility between the two countries.
  • Sharing best practices within the framework of the Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy – PLIKA, in collaboration with other network partners.
  • Strengthening cooperation in the fields of human resources development and youth training, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping the future of logistics.

The collaboration will focus on a diverse range of training areas, including foreign trade, sustainable development, freight forwarding, intermodal transport, port logistics, energy transition, and distribution logistics.

The Escola Europea specialises in courses in the Mediterranean designed for current and future professionals responsible for managing logistics chains, offering cost-effective alternatives in terms of service, cost, and time. In contrast, the STC Group brings extensive expertise in higher education focused on transport and port operations. This partnership provides a comprehensive training proposition in intermodal freight transport, offering students a wealth of opportunities to excel.

The Escola Europea prides itself in employing an experiential learning methodology, combining theoretical instruction with hands-on facility visits to introduce the concept of ‘co-modality’ as a tool for improving transport management. With access to port and rail facilities, students gain first-hand insights into intermodal logistics and transport operations. Furthermore, the Escola’s Port Virtual Lab, an innovative and comprehensive platform, offers cutting-edge technological and educational tools, enabling international trade, logistics, and transport students and professionals to simulate real-life operations and access a wide range of resources to enhance their knowledge and skills.

As a prominent educational institution, the STC Group is a household name in the world of shipping, transport, logistics, and the process industry in Rotterdam and beyond. The organisation is dedicated to providing high-quality education and training to learners of all ages and actively participates in European knowledge projects, contributing to the development of future professional requirements and educational programmes.

Escola Europea Contributes Expertise in Advancing Maritime Trade at ICPFZ 2023 Conference in Libya

/in , ,

The International Conference for Ports and Free Zones (ICPFZ 2023), held under the patronage of Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh, the Prime Minister of Libya, convened industry leaders and experts to deliberate on elevating Libyan Ports and Free Zones amidst evolving global trends. The conference, organised by the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport and held in the Misrata Trade Free Zone, themed “The role of modern global trends in enhancing Libyan Ports and Free Zones competitiveness,” addressed pivotal aspects shaping the maritime trade and the maritime transport industry.

At the forefront of this esteemed gathering were Eduard Rodés and Marco Muci from the Escola Europea, renowned for their dedication to fostering sustainable practices and innovative solutions within the maritime sector. As speakers at the conference, their insights shed light on pivotal areas of advancement for ports and logistics sectors in Libya, based on the research and experience gathered by the Escola Europea.

Escola Europea’s Eduard Rodés addresses industry leaders at the ICPFZ 2023 Conference in Libya, sharing insights on enhancing trade efficiency and logistics through innovative solutions

Eduard Rodés, in his presentation titled “Simulating Efficiency: Enhancing Trade and Logistics in Ports and Distribution Centers,” underscored the significance of efficiency simulations in bolstering trade and logistics operations. He highlighted transformative measures essential for port optimization in an era defined by digitalization and sustainable infrastructure –areas that currently hold special significance for the north Mediterranean countries.

Escola Europea’s active involvement in international conferences like ICPFZ 2023 signifies the organization’s commitment to collaborating with southern Mediterranean countries and its commitment towards driving community building and development throughout the region. The continued partnerships aim to facilitate knowledge exchanges, foster innovation, and drive sustainable growth within the maritime transport industry, therewith contributing to the organisation’s mission of nurturing a sustainable and competitive maritime landscape.

Escola’s Success in Reaching IAPH Sustainability Awards Finals Speaks Volumes

/in , , ,

As the year draws to a close, we are reflecting on an incredible journey that took us to the heart of recognition on a global stage. Our nomination as a finalist in the prestigious IAPH Sustainability Awards has marked a pivotal moment in our pursuit of sustainability and community building.

From the outset, our dedication to fostering sustainable communities has been unwavering. The recognition bestowed upon us as a Top-3 finalist in the “Community Building” category with the YEP MED project – co-funded by the European Union – among a competitive field of international projects is a testament to our commitment and innovative approaches.

In the photo: Akram Soliman (Arab Academy), Eduard Rodés (Escola Europea) and Alaa Morsy (Arab Academy) during the IAPH Sustainability Awards

While the announcement of the winners during the World Ports Conference Gala didn’t place us atop the podium this time, our journey to the finals stands as a resounding achievement. The accolades and acknowledgment received for our efforts in sustainability and community development reinforce the significance of our work – which also further culminated with our director being awarded the prestigious Mediterranean Award by ACASME during the MedaWeek conference in Barcelona last month.

The projects celebrated during the awards represent ground-breaking initiatives from various corners of the globe, each contributing uniquely to the cause of sustainability.

We extend our congratulations to the deserving winners whose remarkable projects have made substantial impacts in their respective categories.

For the Escola, being among the top contenders emphasizes the value of our endeavours and fuels our drive to continue making strides in sustainability and community development. This recognition underscores the dedication of our team and partners, whose unwavering support and relentless pursuit of excellence have propelled us to this stage.

As we bid farewell to 2023, we do so with immense pride in our accomplishments. While this year may be coming to an end, our journey toward a more sustainable and inclusive future is an ongoing commitment. We eagerly anticipate the opportunities that lie ahead in the coming year, poised to embark on new initiatives and collaborations that will further our mission.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been part of our journey, supporting and encouraging us along the way. Your belief in our vision and commitment to sustainability fuels our determination to continue making a meaningful difference.

Here’s to a remarkable 2023 and an even more promising 2024 as we forge ahead in our pursuit of sustainability and community building.

Visionary Leadership: Eduard Rodés Awarded Mediterranean Medal for Advancing Mediterranean Prosperity

/in , , , ,

This Wednesday our director Eduard Rodés was honoured with the Mediterranean Medal by the Advisors Committee of the Association of Mediterranean Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ASCAME). This prestigious award recognized Mr. Rodés’ invaluable contributions to the economic development of the Mediterranean region through his leadership at the Escola Europea.

Eduard Rodés - Recipient of the ACASME Mediterranean Award 2023

Eduard Rodés – Recipient of the ACASME Mediterranean Award 2023

The Mediterranean Medal is bestowed annually upon distinguished individuals, companies, or institutions whose exceptional contributions have played a pivotal role in transforming the Mediterranean into a hub for unity, tolerance, camaraderie, and prosperity. This honour is reserved for those who have made significant strides in economically empowering women and youth, those who have championed job creation, as well as those who have tirelessly worked to advance cooperation and spur economic growth in the Mediterranean region. The award also recognizes Mediterranean-based companies and institutions that have embarked on a global expansion journey, thereby contributing to the promotion of the Mediterranean economy on a global scale. This year, the award ceremony took place at the Gala Dinner of MedaWeek Barcelona, held on the 15th of November at 20:30h at Casa Llotja de Mar, Barcelona.

Eduard Rodés, through his visionary leadership at Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, has made a significant contribution to the sustainable development and economic growth of the Mediterranean region. Since its inception in 2006, the Escola has played a pivotal role in advancing the development of the Mediterranean’s motorways of the sea and promoting intermodality. This commitment is evident through the successful completion of exemplary projects under the Marco Polo Programme of the European Union, the INEA – Executive Agency, and the ENI CBC MED Programme, among others. Furthermore, his recent leadership in initiatives like the YEP MED Project has significantly contributed to job creation within participating Mediterranean countries beyond the EU while also advancing the adoption of technology and simulation in educational programmes within the industry.

The establishment of the Port Virtual Lab has played a pivotal role in the Escola’s ability to expand its experiential programmes not only across the Mediterranean but also beyond. At an award ceremony, the true depth of Mr. Rodés’ dedication and unwavering efforts came to light, leaving a lasting impact on the transportation and logistics sector. His contributions have significantly enhanced the region’s connectivity and global competitiveness. This achievement is further exemplified by the Escola’s status as a PPP (Public Private Partnership) Project, consistently recognized as an international model for best practices in vocational and occupational education, as well as project management.

Upon receiving this remarkable recognition, Mr. Rodés expressed his gratitude, stating “I am deeply honored to receive the Mediterranean Medal of Honor from ASCAME. This distinction is a testament to the collective efforts of all Mediterranean port communities and the dedicated individuals working within them. Many ports have already paved the way for making sustainability, both environmental and social, a strategic element for their future, setting an example and driving change in their surroundings. This achievement is the result of the unwavering commitment and hard work of the entire Escola team, who have dedicated their talent and effort to turning many dreams, both our own and those of others, into reality. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Escola’s partners, including ports and shipping companies, as well as the European Commission and the ENI CBCMED programme, for giving us the opportunity and freedom to make this vision a reality.”

The Gala Dinner of MedaWeek Barcelona 2023 was attended by numerous prominent companies and individuals from various sectors. Their presence added tremendous significance to this momentous occasion.

For media inquiries, please contact Lidia Slawinska at [email protected].

For event-related questions and attendance details, kindly reach out to us at [email protected].

Port Virtual Lab Expands Academic Alliances with the Fundació UAB

/in , , ,

In a move that reinforces its commitment to promoting local and international educational collaborations, the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport is delighted to announce a significant partnership with the Foundation of the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) Foundation (Fundació UAB). This collaboration marks the company’s second agreement with a prominent Barcelona-based university, underscoring its dedication to advancing educational and research initiatives both at home and abroad.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between the two entities mirrors a successful agreement with STC Group Netherlands and with the University of Barcelona (Spain), setting the stage for an innovative approach to port logistics education.

This new educational initiative, set to commence in November 2023, offers a distinctive opportunity for participants to elevate their expertise in the field of port logistics. The backbone of this transformative endeavour is the Port Virtual Lab (PVL) training platform, which has garnered acclaim for revolutionizing education in the port logistics sector. The UAB Foundation’s esteemed reputation in academia and research further enriches this dynamic training solution.

Port Virtual Lab is an innovative and extensive platform that employs cutting-edge technology and educational resources. Functioning as an online logistics lab, it offers international trade, logistics, and transport professionals and students the opportunity to immerse themselves in realistic simulations of port operations and access a wealth of tools to enhance their skills and knowledge.

The platform encompasses 23 simulated companies within a digital port community system. Notably, it includes a pilot freight forwarder module perfected with the support of Click&Cargo, enabling near-real-life operation simulations of import and export operations. The PVL training program, now spanning nine days, includes interactive training modules and hands-on operations. Participants will be presented with realistic contracts and up-to-date information, ensuring a dynamic and immersive learning experience.

The concept of Port Virtual Lab emerged in 2020 when Escola Europea initiated a search for a software company to develop an Enterprise Resource Planning System (ERP) as the core of its virtual training model. This vision culminated in the creation of the platform that replicates a genuine port community, allowing course participants to engage in a controlled yet authentic environment and conduct simulated international trade operations.

Participants in Port Virtual Lab courses adopt various roles within the platform’s extensive range of companies, encompassing the entire supply chain. These roles span freight forwarding, shipping, airlines, road transport, railway companies, and port terminals. Plans are underway to further enrich the simulation by introducing additional supply chain actors to enhance the users’ experiences.

The significance of simulation in training endeavours cannot be overstated. Virtual simulators offer multiple advantages, including real-time practice, diverse scenarios for effective problem-solving, and the ability to test different transport combinations, prioritizing sustainability or speed as needed.

Educational offerings play a pivotal role in preparing future professionals for evolving industries. Simulators and virtual realities are key in providing hands-on experience and confidence to young jobseekers. Port Virtual Lab has been a significant leap in the development of such training tools in the Mediterranean region, and this collaboration with the Autonomous University of Barcelona Foundation marks its expansion across Europe and beyond. Notably, in a recent course, participants rated the platform with an impressive score of 4.94 out of a maximum of 5, highlighting the effectiveness of Port Virtual Lab in enhancing participants’ logistics skills.

The impact of this platform is expected to reverberate across various regions worldwide, leaving a lasting legacy long after the project’s scheduled completion in 2023.

Students from the Forma't al Port Talent 2023 course

The second edition of Forma’t al Port – Talent concludes, the high-performance training for the future talents of the Port of Barcelona

/in , ,

This week marked the conclusion of the second edition of a high-performance training programme called Forma’t al Port Talent. This training is tailored for the top students from professional training centers in the metropolitan area of Barcelona. Eleven institutes from the Barcelona area participated in this edition, which was funded by various collaborating companies in the local logistics and port community. The initiative aims to train the best students on their path to becoming future employees of the companies involved in the programme.

Students from the Forma't al Port Talent 2023 course

BARCELONA, NOVEMBER 8, 2023 – The second edition of the Forma’t al Port Talent training programme concluded this past Tuesday, November 7, with the participation of 41 students and 11 teachers from various professional training institutes in the metropolitan area of Barcelona including: Institut Jaume Mimó, Escola Técnico Profesional Xavier, Instituto ECAT Barcelona Lluïsa Cura, Prat Educació, Stucom, Institut Estela Ibérica, Centro López Vicuña, Instituto La Salle – Gràcia, Fundación UAB, Barcelona Logistics Institute, and Institut Carles Vallbona.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Port of Barcelona, the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, the Diputación de Barcelona, the City Council of Barcelona, the Consorcio de la Zona Franca, port community associations, and a conglomerate of sector companies, all committed and interested in education, come together to make the Forma’t al Port programme possible. This initiative, driven by the Escola Europea, allows sponsoring companies of the Programme to address one of the most significant issues in the industry, identified within the framework of the Training and Employment working group of the Board of Directors of the Port of Barcelona: namely the shortage of qualified talent.

The President of the Escola Europea and the Port of Barcelona, Lluís Salvador, along with Catalina Grimalt, the Deputy Director General of Internal Resources, expressed this sentiment during the welcome reception for the selected participants at the beginning of the course. Montse Nomen, CEO of CargoClub Forwarders and CargoWine, and Jesús Martínez from Tecnocampus de Mataró also participated in the course’s commencement to share some inspiring experiences with the students to help them in their future in the industry.

This high-performance programme aims to identify the most talented candidates from the leading institutes in Barcelona through a rigorous selection process. Students had to surpass a series of tests and interviews to be chosen and invited to participate.

Those selected to participate had the opportunity to experience the components that make up a logistics and port community firsthand. Additionally, they received a detailed report of their professional profile, enabling them to become part of a specialized job pool for the companies involved in this training.

Similarly, accompanying teachers also received specific training aimed at identifying profiles based on behavioral patterns for better guidance of their students.

The entirely in-person and English-language programme unfolded over five days during which both participants and teachers had the opportunity to cultivate cross-cutting skills such as teamwork, communication, and organization through the resolution of an operation using the a case study. The course, conducted on board a Grimaldi Lines Ro-Pax vessel, along an SSS route between Barcelona and Civitavecchia, is designed for participants to acquire technical training. They get to witness the management and execution of maritime intermodal operations and observe how different actors in the logistics and port community of Barcelona interact. Additionally, participants learn the technical vocabulary of the sector and navigate an international port environment.

An increasing number of companies are participating in the programme, benefiting from access to a job pool featuring candidates specifically chosen through meticulous testing and selection processes. These candidates are trained to become the future professionals with the most talent from their institutes. Some of the companies that are already investing in the future talents of the sector include the Association of Ship Brokers of Barcelona, the Official College of Customs Agents and Customs Representatives of Barcelona, the City Council of El Prat, the Association of International Forwarders and Shippers, GCA, Port Transport S.A., CIMALSA, Condeminas, the Propeller Club Barcelona, Cosco Shipping, ZAL Port, and the recent addition of Balearia.

In this way, the Forma’t al Port Talent programme proves to be a reflection of the evolving needs for talent and training in the logistics and port sector. It provides participants with the knowledge, skills, and latest trends necessary to succeed in the transportation and logistics industry, benefiting both the participants and the companies by supplying the best qualified talent in Barcelona.