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.

Your Comfort Zone isn’t Intermodal – it needs Digital Skills

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Eduard Rodés, Director - Escola Europea - Intermodal Transporrt

Written by: Eduard Rodés,
Director – Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport

We are facing a period of major global change. Global logistics operators are merging, extending their capacity across air, land and sea. Large shipping companies are diversifying their services and transforming into integrated mobility providers.

All of this is having a direct impact on supply chains, which are becoming more and more intermodal and in need of more digital skills. And this doesn’t just affect infrastructure, platforms or processes—it affects people. The professionals who have to make decisions in these new environments.

That’s where the real shift needs to happen. And no, I’m not talking about becoming a computer scientist overnight. I’m talking about being prepared to work in a system that is already digital, already intermodal, and moving fast.

That’s why we built Port Virtual Lab (PVL)—to give students and professionals a way to learn by doing. PVL lets you simulate decisions, understand how your choices impact the full supply chain, and prepare for the kind of scenarios we’re already seeing in real life.

When we talk about “training,” we’re not referring to memorizing abstract concepts. We mean giving people the tools to navigate a world that demands agility, awareness, and coordination across modes and borders.

The map is changing. Asia is increasing its global presence. Africa is rising with new transport corridors. The Arctic opens up new possibilities. All of it means that we’re moving into a new era where logistics professionals will need new skills, and not just technical ones: digital skills, yes—but also collaborative, adaptive, and strategic.

So… If you’re still using “I’m not into tech” as a reason to avoid training, we’re sorry to tell you:

Your comfort zone isn’t intermodal.

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

Green Marine Med Final Summits Coming to Barcelona This July

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On 2–3 July 2025, the Green Marine Med project, co-funded by the EMFAF programme of the European Union, will host its Final Summits in Barcelona—and Escola Europea is proud to be among the organising partners.

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

These summits mark the conclusion of the Green Marine Med project, an initiative co-funded by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), aimed at accelerating the green and digital transition of Mediterranean ports. The events will bring together stakeholders from across the region, including maritime authorities, innovators, investors, port professionals, and policymakers:

  • Day 1 – Innovation Summit (2 July):
    The first day will focus on the role of decarbonisation, digitalisation, and data in shaping the future of port ecosystems. Discussions will cover the latest technological trends and how to scale green solutions in the shipping and logistics sectors.
  • Day 2 – Finance Summit (3 July):
    The second day will explore the investment landscape for sustainable maritime projects. Key topics include funding instruments, public-private partnerships, and what makes a maritime project truly bankable.

Escola Europea will contribute insights on training, simulation tools, and upskilling strategies, with a focus on preparing the workforce for the evolving needs of sustainable port operations.

Participation in the summits is free of charge, but spaces are limited and subject to confirmation. Priority will be given to professionals working in maritime innovation, policy, or finance.

Interested in participating? You can register for the Green Marine Med Summit here: https://lu.ma/gam8p44b

You can also view the official announcement and draft agenda on LinkedIn.

This is a unique opportunity to connect with key players shaping the future of green shipping in the Mediterranean.

YEP MED Featured in Interreg’s 2025 Brochure on Transnational Cooperation

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We’re happy to announce that the YEP MED project has been featured in the latest official Interreg publication titled “Fostering collaboration beyond borders: discover the power of Interreg transnational cooperation.”

Published in March 2025, this comprehensive brochure highlights 13 outstanding initiatives from across Europe and its neighbouring regions. Each featured project was chosen to represent one of the Interreg cooperation programmes. YEP MED—Youth Employment in Ports of the Mediterranean—was selected as the flagship example for Interreg NEXT MED, underscoring its success in creating opportunities for young people in the Mediterranean logistics sector.

The article, found on page 13 of the digital flipbook, showcases YEP MED’s unique approach to enhancing youth employability through practical training, digital innovation, and cross-border collaboration. The project brings together public authorities, educational institutions, and private companies to address skills gaps in the port and logistics industry—contributing to a more connected, inclusive, and competitive region.

YEP MED’s recognition by Interreg is a testament to the dedication of its partners across multiple countries and the tangible impact the programme has had on students and jobseekers. It also reflects the power of transnational cooperation in solving regional challenges through shared knowledge, coordinated actions, and mutual support.

You can view the full brochure online here (YEP MED is on page 13): Fostering collaboration beyond borders.

Through initiatives like YEP MED, Escola Europea continues its mission to promote sustainable transport and professional development across the Mediterranean. Stay tuned for more project updates and success stories that reflect our commitment to quality education and cooperation.

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.

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.

#DidYouKnow: AI is quietly changing how we do performance reviews

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In today’s fast-paced professional environments, especially in the logistics and transport sectors, the role of Human Resources is becoming more strategic than ever. New technologies, such as artificial intelligence, are opening up possibilities to improve how we lead teams, detect talent, and support individual growth — but without losing the human touch.

At the Escola Europea, we’re always reflecting on how these tools intersect with real operational challenges. Here’s one area where AI is making quiet, but meaningful, change: performance reviews.

From checklist to conversation: performance reviews in transformation

Performance evaluations have long been seen as a necessary (and often dreaded) process. Managers feel pressure to be fair and constructive. Employees hope to be seen and valued. Striking the right balance is difficult — especially in sectors like logistics, where time is scarce and team structures are complex.

This is where AI comes in.

Across industries, HR professionals are experimenting with tools that aggregate feedback, track performance data, and highlight patterns. These systems don’t replace managers — they support them. They help identify disengagement risks earlier, uncover strengths that might go unnoticed, and provide useful context during evaluation cycles.

The value is in the combination: AI + empathy

However, data doesn’t tell the full story.

AI doesn’t know if someone took on more responsibilities during a team shortage. It can’t sense if someone is navigating personal challenges or stepping up quietly in ways that don’t appear in a dashboard.

That’s where human managers come in — with empathy, intuition, and the ability to contextualise performance in a broader narrative.

At its best, AI enables us to have better conversations, make fairer decisions, and spend more time on what matters most: guiding people toward growth.

What does this mean for the logistics sector?

In logistics and port environments — where work is operational, dynamic, and increasingly complex — HR teams are often stretched. AI can be an ally here, providing clarity in environments full of moving parts.

When used ethically and responsibly, it can improve feedback cycles, strengthen team culture, and support professional development across all levels of the organisation.

Want to explore this further?

At the Escola Europea, we’re diving into these themes in our upcoming course:

Aplicación de la IA en la Gestión de Personas | 30 April 2025 | Port of Barcelona

A practical half-day training designed for HR professionals and business leaders navigating digital transformation in port-logistics environments.

 

We used AI to help draft this article — and a human to shape its tone.

Logistics chain

#DidYouKnow: Freight Forwarders: The Architects of the Logistics Chain

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Logistics as Design, Not Just Delivery

In the international trade arena, few roles are as undervalued — and as essential — as that of the freight forwarder. Often perceived as a behind-the-scenes player, the forwarder is, in fact, the true architect of the logistics chain. Their work involves designing and coordinating the complex structure through which goods move — across continents, through various transport modes, and within a constantly evolving regulatory framework.

Logistics chain

This is not just about execution. It is about intelligent design. A freight forwarder must construct an operation that is cost-effective, compliant, resilient, and efficient. They map out routes, anticipate disruptions, manage documentation, and ensure that multiple actors — carriers, customs authorities, warehouses — are synchronized.

Because in the end, logistics is not only about moving goods. It’s about shaping systems. And for that, we need architects — not just operators.

In many cases, their success is invisible: shipments arrive as planned, delays are avoided, and problems are solved before they escalate. But beneath this apparent simplicity lies a profound level of expertise and strategic thinking. The freight forwarder is not just a link in the chain; they are the one who makes the chain function.

Mastering Complexity Through Integration

In the current logistics landscape, the role of the forwarder extends far beyond transport coordination. It includes the integration of systems, technologies, and sustainability criteria into the very fabric of the supply chain. From ERP platforms and customs software to emissions tracking and e-documentation standards, the digital layer is now inseparable from daily operations.

Today’s freight forwarder must be able to:

  • Use ERP systems to manage and analyze real-time data
  • Coordinate international documentation flows digitally (eBOL, eCMR, eFTI)
  • Understand and comply with European transport regulations
  • Design routes that balance cost, reliability, and environmental impact
  • Serve as a strategic advisor to clients in a changing global market

At the Escola Europea, we have seen how the most effective professionals are those who can move confidently between systems and strategies — who combine operational knowledge with digital and environmental awareness. As demands on logistics teams increase, the forwarder must not only respond, but lead.

Training the Architects of the Future

For freight forwarders to fully step into this expanded role, practical, scenario-based training is essential. Theoretical knowledge is no longer enough. Real understanding comes from experience — from navigating uncertainty, making time-sensitive decisions, and collaborating across virtual and physical borders.

This is the foundation of our work at the Escola Europea: to offer learning experiences that reflect the reality of today’s logistics chains. Through tools such as the Port Virtual Lab platform, we replicate real operational environments and allow professionals to work with live simulations, digital documentation, and integrated ERP systems.

One of our more recent initiatives has focused on equipping logistics professionals with the digital and strategic skills needed to lead in this new environment. It emphasizes immersive simulation, teamwork, and sustainable logistics design — always with the goal of developing professionals who can think holistically and act decisively.