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Freeport East inspires the next generation of freight talent

[ March 1, 2024   //   ]

Freeport East, the government Connected Places Catapult and Clacton Coastal Academy hosted an industry day in Clacton in late February. It showcased the wide range of careers in the freight and logistics sector and aimed to dispel misconceptions and inspire young people to consider exciting career opportunities.

Since 2014, freight and logistics jobs have grown by 26%, nearly double the rate of the wider economy and ports and their surrounding areas, including thousands in the Tendring and North Essex area.

Freeport East includes the ports of Harwich, Felixstowe and Ipswich is keen to ensure local young people are aware of the diversity of opportunities.

Essex County Councillor and Freeport East board member Lesley Wagland, said: “Our goal is to make the freight and logistics industry more accessible and appealing to young talent in the area. By showcasing the innovation within the sector, we hope to inspire the next generation of industry leaders. Events like these are crucial for bridging the gap between industry and young people in the region looking for new opportunities and this helps to build an exciting and sustainable future for both Tendring and the sector.”

Simon Papworth, strategy and policy manager at Freeport East, highlighted: “Our aim is motivating students and broadening their career horizons and we have worked closely with our partners to showcase the many diverse and rewarding opportunities available in the freight and logistics sector, as well as jobs in Essex and the wider Freeport East area.”

Clacton Coastal Academy assistant vice principal, Laura Leatherby said the event was “a fantastic opportunity to bridge the gap between the industry’s leading professionals and the bright minds of tomorrow”, culminating in a ‘hackathon’ to put students’ newly gained knowledge of the sector and creative problem solving to the test.

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