The objective of the project ‘Empower Next Port Professionals with Innovative Skills through XR Immersive Training Programs’, is to provide support at regional, national and European level to decision-makers in training, as well as in structuring the network model between the ports of Valencia, Rotterdam, Livorno, Venice and Piraeus.

This includes the creation of the basis for analysis, monitoring and working dynamics, as well as the development of skills of the port logistics cluster, all linked to the upcoming energy and digital transition. It focuses on three professional areas: firstly, port and logistics management; secondly, technical planning and management of goods and passenger handling; and finally, port logistics operational handling.

Among the main activities to be developed are:

• The mapping of professional profiles in the port sector, verifying the impact of the energy and digital transition on skills and competences.
• The creation of training itineraries using innovative methodologies and tools such as XR (Extended Reality) technologies for the selected profiles.
• The establishment of criteria and methodologies for the certification of professional competences.
• The organisation of 100 training mobilities for port workers and VET experts in the 5 partner ports.
• The elaboration of a Policy Paper for decision-makers.

The expected results of the project include:

• The creation of a Profiles Manual.
• The creation of an Observatory of port professional profiles to anticipate and manage.
• The creation of training itineraries with learning modules that simulate real working environments and use XR technologies.
• The involvement and facilitation of ports and logistics companies in vocational training activities to cope with change.
• The realisation of transferable training pathways in higher vocational education and training.
• The support to institutions in the analysis and monitoring of labour dynamics and competences.

For the development of the project, Fundación Valenciaport will be in charge of mapping the job profiles of the port logistics sector in relation to the energy and digital transition. This will be carried out through activities such as questionnaires to stakeholders, the creation of an observatory and the holding of several workshops with experts, including one in the Port of Valencia. In addition, it will participate in the implementation of other types of activities related to the certification of experts, training mobilities and best practices, among others.