Tag Archive for: Forma’t al Port

Grupo Arola joins Forma’t al Port to support the development of future logistics talent

The company becomes a new sponsor of the Escola Europea’s flagship training programme, reinforcing the connection between education and the port-logistics industry.

Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport is pleased to announce the incorporation of Grupo Arola as a new sponsor of Forma’t al Port, the training programme that connects students with the port and logistics ecosystem of Barcelona through practical, industry-oriented learning experiences.

From left to right: Alejandro Arola, President of Grupo Arola; Ariadna Arola, Chief Research and Development Officer at Grupo Arola; Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport; and Marta Miquel, Deputy Director of Escola Europea, during the signing of the sponsorship agreement that formalises Grupo Arola’s incorporation into the Forma’t al Port programme.

The agreement strengthens the collaboration between the business and educational sectors with a shared objective: supporting the development of young talent and preparing future professionals for careers in logistics, transport, and international trade.

For more than ten years, Forma’t al Port has brought students closer to the realities of the Port of Barcelona and its logistics community. Through direct interaction with companies, industry professionals, and operational environments, participants gain first-hand insight into the sector while developing both technical knowledge and transversal skills.

Today, the programme is supported by more than 35 sponsors, including public administrations, logistics-port associations, shipping companies, freight forwarders, transport operators, depots, and other key stakeholders from the sector. In addition, a network of collaborating entities, many of them port terminals, contributes to the practical training activities that form an essential part of the programme.

In 2025, Forma’t al Port celebrated its tenth anniversary, bringing together 636 students from 15 educational centres and consolidating its position as one of the leading applied training initiatives within the port-logistics sector.

The programme is structured around two complementary stages. Forma’t al Port Introduction introduces first-year students to the fundamentals of the port ecosystem and the roles of its different actors. Forma’t al Port Talent, aimed at second-year students, focuses on the development of high-performance teams in transport and logistics management, combining technical training with the enhancement of soft skills, teamwork, communication, and professional competencies.

As part of this new collaboration, Ariadna Arola, Chief Research and Development Officer at Grupo Arola, will serve as sponsor and mentor of the upcoming Forma’t al Port Talent edition. During the programme, she will share her professional experience and vision of the logistics sector with participating students, offering valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that await future professionals.

“At Escola Europea, we firmly believe that preparing the next generation of logistics professionals requires close collaboration between educational institutions and industry. We are delighted to welcome Grupo Arola to the Forma’t al Port community and look forward to working together to inspire and support future talent,” said Marta Miquel, Deputy General Director of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport.

The incorporation of Grupo Arola reinforces Forma’t al Port’s commitment to bridging education and industry, ensuring that students gain the knowledge, skills, and professional connections needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected, innovative, and sustainable logistics sector.

MSC joins Escola Europea’s “Forma’t al Port” programme as a new sponsor

MSC joins the Escola Europea’s Forma’t al Port programme as a new sponsor, strengthening collaboration between the logistics sector and education to support young talent.

Antillas Sea Agency Joins Forma’t al Port’s Growing Network of Collaborators

The port-logistics training initiative Forma’t al Port, driven by the Escola Europea , has welcomed a new collaborating company. Antillas Sea Agency, a well-established maritime representation firm based in El Masnou, has joined as a new sponsor, further reinforcing the programme’s mission to build bridges between education and industry.

Clàudia Gómez Gallardo and Eduard Rodés sign the sponsorship agreement for Antillas Sea Agency’s incorporation into the Forma’t al Port programme, accompanied by Laura Rayas (centre)

With this partnership, the company becomes part of a wider network of institutions and businesses that are actively shaping the future of the logistics-port sector. As part of their commitment, Antillas Sea Agency will support the programme’s training activities, which include immersive visits to port facilities and direct interaction between students and logistics professionals.

“Having companies like Antillas Sea Agency on board is a true asset,” commented Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea. “They are deeply connected to the region and bring valuable insight from their operations to the students. These partnerships are what strengthen the entire logistics-port community.”

A Shared Commitment to Talent Development

The programme Forma’t al Port was launched with the goal of fostering logistics knowledge and employability among young students in Catalonia. It is based on an experiential learning model and supported by a wide range of logistics companies, associations, and public institutions. The incorporation of new sponsors like Antillas Sea Agency ensures that students gain first-hand exposure to the sector’s real operations and challenges.

The collaboration is already showing results. One of the company’s recent recruits is a former participant of the programme’s Talent initiative — a clear example of how these collaborations can directly impact career opportunities for young people in the region.

International Prospects on the Horizon

The partnership also opens up interesting possibilities for international collaboration, especially in light of Antillas Sea Agency’s solid experience in the Caribbean region. Future exchanges between educational institutions in Cuba and Barcelona are being considered, with the aim of enhancing bilateral knowledge transfer and expanding the programme’s international scope.

Forma’t al Port continues to thrive thanks to the joint commitment of sponsors who share a vision of a more connected and better-prepared logistics workforce.

e2e Logistics Joins the Forma’t al Port Programme

The network of collaborators in the Forma’t al Port programme continues to grow. This month, e2e Logistics officially became one of the initiative’s sponsoring companies, reinforcing the commitment of the port-logistics community to supporting the next generation of professionals.

The agreement was signed at the company’s headquarters in Barcelona, in the presence of Ainhoa Carrió, General Manager at e2e Logistics, and Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea.

With this partnership, e2e Logistics not only supports the training of young talent in port and logistics operations (as it’s done with the Forma’t al Port Programme), but also gets involved in a very tangible way. In fact, one of the participants from the most recent edition of the Forma’t al Port Talent programme is now working at their offices—an encouraging example of how the programme is helping build real career pathways.

“Each new partner adds to the strength of this community,” said Marta Miquel, Deputy Director of the Escola Europea. “And it’s especially meaningful when we see our students take their first professional steps within the companies that support their learning.”

As the demand for logistics training continues to rise, the support of sponsors like e2e Logistics ensures that the programme remains accessible to more training centres and students across Catalonia. New collaborations will be announced in the coming weeks.

FNG Fornes Logistics Joins the Forma’t al Port Programme

The Escola Europea has signed a new collaboration agreement with FNG Fornes Logistics, a company specialised in comprehensive logistics services, which joins the Forma’t al Port educational programme as a partner organisation.

Eduard Rodés (Escola Europea) and Javad Valinuri Fotovati (FNG Fornes Logistics) during the signing, marking the company’s entry into the Forma’t al Port programme.

This agreement reinforces the shared commitment of both entities to promote logistics training that is closely aligned with the professional reality of the sector, with a strong focus on young talent and sustainability.

FNG Fornes Logistics, headquartered in Palma de Mallorca, has strategic branches across the Iberian Peninsula, including Barcelona, and provides personalised, efficient solutions across the supply chain. Its integration into the Forma’t al Port programme helps strengthen the links between the logistics ecosystem of the Balearic Islands and the port communities of the Western Mediterranean.

“It is an honour to join this project and contribute to the development of young talent entering a sector that is becoming increasingly digitalised and constantly evolving,” said Javad Valinuri Fotovati, Business Development Director at FNG Fornes Logistics.

The Forma’t al Port programme is a mutualised initiative led by the Escola Europea with the support of the Port of Barcelona. It brings together public institutions, sectoral associations and private companies in a joint effort to connect port-logistics environments with vocational and university-level students. Through hands-on and collaborative training experiences, the programme aims to inspire careers, professionalise the sector, and bridge the gap between education and industry.

“We especially value the addition of FNG Fornes Logistics to the Forma’t al Port community. Their commitment to young talent and the development of the logistics sector strengthens the core mission of this collaborative programme,” stated Marta Miquel, Deputy Director of the Escola Europea.

The support of sponsor companies makes it possible to keep the programme affordable and to offer high-quality training. In turn, collaborating firms gain access to a pool of motivated young talent aligned with current sectoral needs.

In the coming weeks, the Escola Europea will announce additional partnerships that continue to strengthen the cooperative ecosystem of the Forma’t al Port programme.

eGlobe joins Forma’t al Port: New Partnership to Support Port Logistics Training

On 16 July 2025, the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport signed a new collaboration agreement with eGlobe, a logistics company that shares the Escola’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the development of young talent. With this new Forma’t al Port Partnership, eGlobe officially joins the group of companies that support the Forma’t al Port programme as partners.

The signing took place at eGlobe’s headquarters, in a meeting where both organisations exchanged ideas and reflected on their shared values: fostering meaningful learning experiences and offering young people opportunities to get closer to the logistics and port sectors through immersive and hands-on training.

eGlobe is a dynamic and forward-thinking logistics provider based in Barcelona, specialised in tailor-made solutions that integrate technology and environmental responsibility. With a strong focus on digitalisation and customer service, the company actively promotes sustainable growth and embraces innovation as a core part of its strategy. Its involvement in Forma’t al Port reflects a clear commitment to supporting the next generation of professionals in the sector.

El acuerdo fue firmado por Guillem Sardañés, Co-Fundador de eGlobe (izquierda), y Eduard Rodés (derecha), director de la Escola Europea.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Forma’t al Port programme, a milestone that highlights the long-standing collaboration between the port-logistics community and the educational sector. With the incorporation of partners like eGlobe, the programme’s image and impact continue to strengthen, consolidating its position as a flagship initiative for talent development within the Port of Barcelona.

Through Forma’t al Port, students from vocational and university programmes gain first-hand knowledge of intermodal logistics, port operations, and sustainable transport solutions, supported by companies and institutions committed to building a stronger, better-prepared future workforce.

We warmly welcome eGlobe to the Forma’t al Port community and thank them for joining us on this journey.

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

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.

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

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

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!

Butransa renews its agreement with the Escola Europea for the Forma’t al Port programme

Butransa, a leading company in the transport and logistics sector, has renewed its collaboration agreement with the Escola Europea to continue funding the Forma’t al Port programme. This partnership, originally signed in 2018, reaffirms Butransa’s commitment to training and developing future professionals in transport, logistics, and international trade, while also allowing the company to identify and attract top talent.

The Forma’t al Port programme, promoted by the Training and Employment Working Group of the Executive Council and led by the Escola Europea, aims to provide students with the necessary tools and knowledge to understand and navigate the reality of the port logistics sector. Since its creation in 2015, ten years ago, the programme has contributed to the training of hundreds of young professionals, establishing itself as a key initiative in supporting emerging talent in the sector.

This year, the Escola Europea is introducing an innovative improvement to the selection and evaluation process: students starting their internships in 2025 will receive a Predictive Index report, a tool that generates a detailed behavioural profile of candidates. This will allow sponsoring companies, such as Butransa, to access both the CVs of interns and their behavioural profiles, helping to identify the most suitable candidates for internships and potential employment, anticipating the evolving needs of the job market.

With this renewed agreement, Butransa strengthens its commitment to the development of both local and international talent, consolidating its position as a company dedicated to training and preparing the next generation of transport and logistics professionals.

About Butransa
Butransa is a leading company in the transport and logistics sector, with a long track record of innovation and excellence. It offers tailored solutions and efficient supply chain management.