New air cargo loading training programme

A new professional training programme will kick off in Hoofddorp in the first quarter of 2010, preparing students for a job in the air cargo loading sector.

Their tasks include inspecting incoming cargo, placing export and/or import cargo on pallets, preparing cargo for shipment and carefully filling out electronic and paper forms.

The new training programme is a joint initiative by a growing group of air cargo businesses at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (currently 18) and Schiphol College, a training facility in Hoofddorp set up by Schiphol and the Amsterdam Regional Training Centre (ROC). Schiphol College currently offers aviation technology courses, as well as training programmes for stewardesses, security officials and tourism.

Before the current recession, the aviation sector had great difficulty finding qualified and motivated staff. Businesses have taken advantage of the opportunities offered by the crisis to launch specific air cargo training programmes, together with Schiphol College, in an attempt to promote the influx of young and qualified workers.