Internationally, STC Next stands as a formidable partner for leading clients in and around the port. As a valued, knowledge-driven partner, STC Next is dedicated to human capital development and providing strategic advice in both the public and private sectors. Adson Hofman, the Sector Manager for Projects & Consultancy, leads the team and shares insights into STC Next’s strength on the international stage.
Public and Private Collaboration
The Projects & Consultancy sector, consisting of approximately eleven employees, focuses on training, education, and consultancy across four key sectors: maritime, port, transportation, and logistics. Adson explains, “We operate in both the public and private sector. Our strong international track record and personal networks bring us a variety of projects.” STC Next collaborates with governments worldwide, international development banks, and organizations such as UNESCAP and UNCTAD. Additionally, STC Next undertakes projects for private entities globally, including terminal operators and logistics service providers. As an independent organization, STC Next significantly contributes to professionalizing and development of individuals in these sectors.
Promising future
STC Next serves clients in countries experiencing significant growth in the maritime, port, transportation, and logistics sectors. “To be close to our clients, we often establish local presence,” says Adson. “For example, we have local teams of project managers and consultants in Colombia, Brazil, and Indonesia. Moreover, we have our own branches in South Africa, Oman, and Vietnam, equipped with education and training facilities. This local presence allows us to effectively address the educational, training, and consultancy needs within STC Next’s sectors. Besides our local presence, our clients are global, with a strong focus on the Latin America, Africa, Middle East, and Southeast Asia regions.”
Maritime Connectivity
Approximately 80% of global trade is transported via ships—locally, regionally, and intercontinentally. According to Adson, “Maritime connectivity and the role of ports are crucial in facilitating this process.” In regions like Asia, this connectivity is closely tied to robust economic growth and development. STC Next provides solutions to support governments and businesses in this process, with a focus on enhancing staff knowledge and skills through training and education. Additionally, STC Next offers strategic advice to both public and private entities, ensuring they stay informed about the latest developments and prepare stakeholders in and around the port for the future.
Trends
Adson emphasizes that sustainability always plays a role. “This encompasses not only environmental concerns but also economic and social sustainability. Regarding the environment, goals include energy transition in the port. Economically, there’s a push for automation and digitalization, while socially, there’s a need for training and education to enhance knowledge and skills. All these aspects contribute to sustainable development in and around the port. STC Next responds by aligning its services and adapting to these trends.”
Spin-off
Internationally, in addition to being a knowledge partner, STC Next acts as a connector, fostering spin-offs. Adson explains, “Where we work, connections form between countries, ports, public, and private organizations. Over time, we observe positive impacts on stakeholders in and around the port due to the progress we achieve. This spin-off enhances our distinctiveness and strengthens our position. At STC Next, we say, ‘Keeps you growing.’ This growth applies not only to our clients but also to ourselves. Each international project we undertake teaches us something new, and we carry these experiences forward to all regions where we work. We deliver services tailored to client needs, contributing to development.”