ISTANBUL: The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) is to launch a series of professional development workshops this summer in the Netherlands.

TIACA says its new three-day Air Cargo Professional Development Programme is tailored for the air freight logistics industry to develop management and decision-making skills, financial analysis and marketing and team-building leadership expertise.

The course is the result of a collaboration between TIACA and Strategic Aviation Solutions International (SASI). One of the company's executive directors is Stan Wraight, previously a KLM Cargo executive and contemporary of TIACA's 49th and latest Hall of Fame recipient, former KLM Cargo head Jacques Ancher.

"The new programme addresses the specific needs of the air freight industry and will give students the practical information and skills they need to succeed on a day-to-day basis," said Doug Brittin, TIACA secretary general (seated left of TIACA chairman Oliver Evans and Jim Edgar). "The workshops will also provide the perfect backdrop for raising questions and thoughts, creating the process of change required for industry development and growth. Students will build connections and support through networking."

Up to 25 participants are expected to attend the first session beginning on June 25 that aims to fill the management knowledge-gap identified in a report by TIACA's Education and Research Committee (ERC) in conjunction with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA), and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

"Worldwide air cargo traffic is expected to continue growing and our industry is going to need a new and increasing source of suitably-qualified managers to support this," said Jim Edgar, TIACA ERC Chairman. "These workshops are designed to develop that next generation of leaders and are a tangible example of TIACA's important leadership role in the air freight supply chain."