Erasmus University Trains ‘Directors of the Energy Transition’ in Collaboration with Port Companies

Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) is ushering in an innovative training programme aimed at empowering experienced project managers to become ‘directors of the energy transition’. Developed in collaboration with a consortium of leading companies and knowledge institutions, this initiative is designed to address the complex energy and resource transitions taking place within the port sector.

The Port as a Hub for Transformation

The port of Rotterdam is facing significant challenges, with regional companies required to devise solutions for issues such as grid congestion and resource supply, all while adhering to legal mandates and contributing to national objectives like the transition to a circular economy. The energy transition, however, is not solely about overcoming these hurdles. It also brings distinct opportunities to transform the port into a global exemplar of sustainable innovation.

New Approaches to Learning and Innovation

EUR’s project is a crucial contributor to this transformative era. Through a flexible educational programme and learning networks, the skills of professionals in the port sector are being strengthened, enabling them to craft innovative solutions and contribute effectively to the energy transition. This programme is being implemented in close collaboration with industry partners, MKB Rijnmond, and Economic Board Zuid-Holland (EBZ), with the Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences actively participating in the development of new methods of learning and innovation.

Government Investment in Lifelong Learning (LLO)

The Dutch government is strategically investing €36.6 million in 39 projects under the Lifelong Learning (LLO) initiative, and this Erasmus University project is one of those identified as pivotal. The focus is on fostering partnerships between employers, vocational education (MBO), universities of applied sciences (HBO), academic institutions (WO), and private training providers, including sector-based training schools. A primary objective is to reskill and upskill professionals specifically for the energy and resource transition.

Innovation Arena: Learning in Practice

A cornerstone of the programme is the Innovation Arena, a collaborative platform where ‘directors’ from various companies jointly tackle shared challenges. This arena serves as a venue for participants to exchange practical experiences, pinpoint knowledge gaps, and develop innovative solutions collaboratively. This interactive learning process not only supports personal development but also enhances the ability of companies to navigate the transition effectively.

“The Port of Rotterdam has a unique ecosystem where innovation, research, education, and practice come together,” states Dr. Larissa van der Lugt, Director of the Erasmus Centre for Port and Transport Economics (UPT). “Our research highlights not only a shortage of entry-level staff but also an urgent need to bolster the expertise of (project) managers at HBO and WO levels to align with the current transformative challenges. Through this programme, our aim is to enhance professionals’ capacity for innovation and contribute to the region’s sustainable future.”

Working Together for a Sustainable Future

The Erasmus Centre for Energy Transition (ECET), a driving force behind the initiative, values the programme as a pivotal step towards realizing regional transition ambitions, with South Holland poised to emerge as an Energy Transition Valley. “We aim to cultivate new modes of learning and collaboration where science and practice seamlessly converge,” says Malou Kroezen, Director of ECET. “Through this initiative, we arm professionals with the tools to address complex challenges and enable them to glean insights from scientists on enhancing their organizations’ positions within the energy transition.”

Jeffrey van Meerkerk, Director of Strategic Relations at ManpowerGroup and Chair of the Taskforce Human Capital Agenda, underscores the critical importance of collaboration: “At a time of labor market shortages and immense societal challenges, this programme stands as a prime example of how education and business can jointly invest in future-proof skills.”