More focus on upskilling needed
The logistics sector puts a lot of focus on attracting people into the industry, but not nearly enough on how to retain and help them progress, says Generation Logistics.
LOGISTICS UK head of skills policy and programme director for Generation Logistics, Bethany Windsor, adds: “Upskilling and reskilling is where employers can make the biggest and most lasting difference, certainly in the short term.”
The comments came as experts discussed skills during a round table organised by Generation Logistics.
The use of AI in the sector was discussed, and the participants outlined how the technology is already widely used and is helping improve efficiency by automating many tasks.
“During discussions, it became clear that while AI will change the jobs people are doing, it will not necessarily replace them,” continued Windsor. “Many of today’s jobs simply did not exist a few years ago and AI presents a great opportunity for upskilling as the technology becomes more critical for logistics operators.
“Barriers to upskilling are well known: the cost and time pressures of releasing staff for training, fragmented provision for SMEs, and a funding system that is not always easy to access and that doesn’t flex for short or modular upskilling.
“We know from international evidence, including the recent Learning and Work Institute report funded by the Nuffield Foundation, that success comes when training is employer-led, co-designed and easy to access.
“For logistics, that means building sector partnerships, expanding modular and on-the-job learning, and making funding simpler and more flexible, so businesses can respond quickly to change.
“If the sector can get that right, we’ll not only solve today’s shortages, but also build a workforce ready for the digital, data-driven and low-carbon logistics of, ensuring the UK remains a global leader in efficient, innovative supply chains.”
