Students - the surface transport industry wants you!
A shortage of qualified personnel has become apparent in the rail and road transport sectors. Given the current high levels of unemployment within the EU this anomaly indicates a serious mismatch between the education system and the requirements of Surface Transport Industry (STI). The Tech-clinic SST project was set up under the FP7-Transport Programme to make students more aware of the challenges to be faced by the STI in the near future. The project highlights the innovative nature of the industry in developing and applying new technologies and emphasises the educational, research and career opportunities on offer. Work experience, promotion of entrepreneurial spirit and other awareness raising initiatives are being conducted under the auspices of Tech-clinic SST. The project has also supported SMEs in mapping their specific knowledge requirements and contributed to finding solutions for meeting these needs. The consortium has also made SMEs aware of the importance of collaborating with highly skilled young people, who can contribute significantly to the businesses development and competitiveness. Two main activities were undertaken by the Tech-clinic SST initiative. The first involved the creation of 'Technological Clinics' where students met with STI representatives to share knowledge and information. This was conducted before the young people entered the job market. The second activity involved 'Cafes Scientifiques' which addressed school and university students in five EU Member States about the importance of surface transport in society. Both activities will facilitate knowledge transfer between enterprises, universities and students and contribute to solving problems highlighted by participating businesses and organisations. An increase in the number and quality of students working in the STI will result in a win - win situation. Young people will be able to carve out a successful long-term career in a dynamic industry that will benefit from their skills and enthusiasm.
