The logistics, transport and supply chain sector is on the verge of major changes. Internationalization is increasing and there is more focus on applied data. Furthermore, there is a new generation of port professionalswho strive for a better work-life balance, but also want to do meaningful work. All these changes raise questions: What is the next step? How do you keep focus on your own development? Manager of Logistics, Transport and Supply Chain of STC Next, Nawin Manbodh (PhD), answers the question ‘What’s next?’. It becomes clear that STC Next is the obvious training partner to take the best steps towards the future.
Even more flexibility
These changes require companies to look at industry developments differently. “Internationally, a lot is changing”, says Nawin. “Think of more laws and regulations and increasing cooperation in automation and safety. This transformation requires even more flexibility toward one’s own organization and the client. Then there is the increasing focus on the environment. Things have to be more and more sustainable and how do you want employees to deal with this?”
Toward a ‘data savvy’ sector
Internationalization is increasing the flow of data. That’s why a ‘data savvy’ sector is a requirement, one with companies and employees who know how to analyze data, so they can make the most of it. “You already see this in fully automated warehouses, where the emphasis is increasingly on process control by employees via screens.” Complementing this, Nawin also sees an increase in the application of AI, artificial intelligence. “AI is already being used for risk analysis. Its use is increasing rapidly.”
Operational functions are also changing
Nawin notes that training courses such as Freight Forwarder, Shipbroker and Customs Officer remain in high demand. But developments around supply chain are moving fast. He sees that under the pressure of globalization, digitalization and technological innovations, the demand for supply chain management and soft skills training is increasing. “Within ten years you won’t know the supply chain anymore. Through chain management, organizations will then be able to work much more efficiently. These developments also have implications for operational functions.”
Flexible, autonomous and meaningful work
And another important change is on the way. When asked ‘What’s next?’, Nawin predicts that the biggest challenge for the future may be the new generation of port professionals. “This generation demands flexibility and autonomy, but also wants meaningful work. That is why STC Next is developing training courses for various sectors that combine professional knowledge and soft skills. These include personal skills such as good communication, cooperation and leadership. These skills contribute to a pleasant working environment and better results. They also make employees want to stay with the company longer.”
STC Next keeps you growing
STC Next develops a training offer with maximum attention to professional knowledge and soft skills. Nawin: “We strive for an exciting mix of studies: self-study where possible, but also joint meetings where we discuss cases and link theory to practice. This is how we ensure that people grow with the ‘new’ sector of logistics, transport and supply chain.”The Port of Rotterdam is the most important economy in the Netherlands and wants to become and remain the most sustainable and smartest port in the world, Nawin knows: “This requires optimally trained employees who dare to lead the way. STC Next is the experienced training partner that keeps people on the move. That’s why we say: ‘STC Next keeps you growing’.”