The Venturn Young Professional (VYP) program offers trainees the opportunity to explore a wide range of companies within the maritime sector. This is achieved through assignments with clients or through company visits. Recently, 15 trainees visited the MSC PSA European Terminal (MPET) in Antwerp.
The Port of Antwerp has been a strategic hub within the global flow of goods for decades. One of the most prominent links in this network is MPET, located at the Deurganckdok.
With a handling capacity of some 9 million TEU per year, a quay length of 3.7 kilometers and 41 container cranes on 240 hectares, MPET is the largest container terminal in Europe.
The joint venture between PSA (Port of Singapore Authority) and Terminal Investment Limited (TIL) is known for its scale, technological innovation and strong focus on operational efficiency.
A look behind the scenes at MPET
The visit to MPET began with an introduction to the organization, its position within the Port of Antwerp, and the day-to-day operations at the terminal. This presentation gave the trainees a good idea of the enormous scale, complex infrastructure, and logistical challenges involved in container handling. The strategic collaboration with the shareholders PSA and TIL was also discussed, as well as the important role of technology in the long-term vision.
After the introduction, the trainees were given a unique look behind the scenes during an extensive tour. Accompanied, they passed by the impressive installations and observed container handling operations up close.
We were explained the operation of the straddle carriers, the operation of giant cranes, the use of automation, and the use of green technology.
The scale and efficiency in which MPET operates made a big impression, especially the coordination between water, rail and road and the precision with which thousands of containers are handled every day.
The visit to MPET concluded with a joint lunch on site. This provided an opportunity for the trainees to interact with employees and share experiences in an informal setting.
Digital strategy and practical case
In the afternoon, the program continued at PSA’s headquarters in downtown Antwerp. There the trainees were given an in-depth presentation on MPET’s digital strategy and the development of the CONNECT app. This application plays an important role in digitizing communication between the terminal and carriers. The aim is to improve container handling, reduce waiting times, and increase transparency in the logistics chain.
Afterwards, the trainees worked in groups on a practical business case. The central question was how large batches of import containers containing the same goods, which are now randomly stacked and picked up by truck operators, can be managed more intelligently and efficiently. From a product development perspective, ideas were developed, and possible solutions were discussed. Thus, theory was directly linked to practice and actively participated in thinking about current issues.
The representative of MPET asked targeted questions to encourage an open discussion. This provided space to share insights, analyze practical examples, and jointly look for improvements. This interactive session connected well with the knowledge gained earlier and offered the trainees the opportunity to actively contribute to conversations about innovation in the maritime sector.
Conclusion and network moment
After the official program, the trainees concluded the day with informal drinks in the center of Antwerp. This offered the opportunity to continue talking, sharing experiences, and strengthening mutual contacts. Afterwards, they enjoyed a joint dinner at a local restaurant.
