The Future of European Inland Navigation Depends on a New Generation of Captains and Sailors
Why is education and training of new professionals crucial today?
Inland waterway transport is the backbone of sustainable and efficient logistics in Europe. Rivers such as the Rhine, Danube, Elbe or Main serve as major transport arteries, moving thousands of tons of goods and passengers daily. However, even the strongest infrastructure relies on the human factor – qualified sailors and captains, who are currently in critically short supply.
New vessels every year – but who will steer them?
According to Eurostat, in 2020 about 41,923 people were employed in the EU’s inland navigation sector – 56% in freight transport and 44% in passenger transport. However, these figures are not growing; on the contrary – the workforce is aging, and younger workers are entering the field too slowly. This trend is alarming.
Meanwhile, the number of vessels keeps increasing. In 2023, over 2.2 million ships entered major EU ports – a year-on-year increase of 1.5%. Each year, new freight and cruise ships are launched on Europe’s rivers – but there is a shortage of trained crews to operate them.
Why is it important to participate in training?
Educating future professionals in inland navigation is not solely the responsibility of schools or the state – it is a shared duty that includes shipping companies. Those who invest in professional training today will benefit tomorrow from loyal, skilled, and multilingual workers.
That’s why TMLG Academy builds a bridge between theory and practice – offering certified courses, professional training, and support in placing students directly into operational settings with shipping companies.
Our philosophy at TMLG Academy:
• Education must be practice-oriented
• Students need a clear vision and support
• Companies need motivated and prepared staff
By connecting educational institutions, businesses, and public authorities, we can ensure stability and growth in a sector that is vitally important to Europe.
Conclusion
If you work in the inland navigation industry, engaging in the education of the next generation is also your advantage. A well-educated, motivated worker who already knows your company during their studies is the foundation of future successful cooperation.
➡️ Find out more at tmlgacademy.eu
