Discovery Platform: Tailored Training for Air Cargo Recruits

Michelle House, Managing Director of GAC GB, Dimitri Arnaudin, Director of Digital and Innovation, and Adrien Thominet, Executive Chairman of ECS Group, speak with Air Cargo Update about the Discovery Platform. This innovative tool is revolutionizing air cargo training with personalized, role-specific learning, ensuring long-term career growth and operational efficiency.

By Ayesha Rashid

Thinking about a career in air cargo?

You’ve probably heard it’s a complex, highly regulated field, and for a good reason: transporting goods by air safely and efficiently requires skilled hands and sharp minds. Training is essential to make that happen.

Traditionally, air cargo training has been implemented using a one-size-fits-all approach, which has resulted in critical gaps in knowledge and caused inefficiencies within the industry.

But that’s where ECS Group is stepping up to redefine industry standards with the Discovery Platform.

Developed under the guidance of Dimitri Arnaudin, Director of Digital and Innovation, and Adrien Thominet, Executive Chairman of ECS Group, Discovery is a fresh, forward-thinking training tool that’s changing the game for air cargo recruits.

By tailoring training to each role, Discovery ensures you’re equipped with the precise skills needed to thrive.

In this article, we’ll dive into why personalized training is so important and how ECS Group’s Discovery Platform is shaping the future of growth and learning in the air cargo industry.

With the global air cargo market valued at USD 185.3 billion in 2023 and expected to grow at a rate of 4.3% annually between 2024 and 2032, this innovative approach comes at a crucial moment.

As e-commerce continues to boom and global shipping volumes soar, the need for skilled professionals in air cargo has never been greater (Global Market Insights).

ECS’s Discovery E-Learning Platform
ECS’s Discovery platform is an innovative e-learning solution designed to provide air cargo recruits with a comprehensive understanding of the industry.

The platform features a variety of interactive modules, videos and quizzes tailored to different learning styles, ensuring that complex concepts are easy to grasp.

What distinguishes Discovery is its ability to simulate real-world scenarios, offering learners a risk-free environment to practice and apply their knowledge.

This approach helps participants build confidence and develop the skills necessary to excel in their roles.

ECS’s Discovery platform recognizes the unique requirements of each role in the air cargo industry, offering tailored learning paths to meet specific job needs.

These customized plans provide targeted training, ensuring employees gain the skills and knowledge essential for their positions.

This personalized approach helps learners stay focused, develop a deep understanding of their responsibilities, and contribute effectively to their organizations.

Dimitri Arnaudin, Director of Digital and Innovation at ECS Group, highlighted the tailored approach of the Discovery e-learning platform, “Our platform offers training specifically designed to align with employees’ job roles, creating a focused and relevant learning experience. For new recruits, we provide learning paths that cover IT, compliance, sustainability, job-specific courses, and industry-related topics such as e-booking.

“We start with the Air Cargo Onboarding course for those entering the industry and also offer Microsoft Office training to enhance their skill set. For instance, a new hire in the Flight Planning and Reservations team would undertake the CargoSpot Operations training in addition to mandatory courses. Similarly, a new Sales team member would be enrolled in Quantum, CargoSpot: Pricing module, and Apollo courses, tailored to their role-specific needs.”

Keeping Up with Regulations and Best Practices
The air cargo industry is highly regulated, making compliance crucial to avoid costly mistakes and reputational risks.

The Discovery platform offers tailored training programs to ensure employees stay updated on the latest regulations and guidelines.

As industry best practices evolve, these platforms also provide training on recognized standards, enabling companies to optimize operations, reduce errors, and boost efficiency.

In addition, discovery platforms emphasize process improvement and digital solutions, offering training on automation, data analytics, and digitalization.

Arnaudin notes, “Our ongoing efforts have focused on educating and training for process improvement, implementing IT digital solutions, and promoting best practices. Recently, we’ve expanded our offerings to include specialized courses on Pharma Transportation and are preparing to launch a new course on Supply Chain Management. We also encourage employees to take regular refresher courses to ensure their industry knowledge remains current.”

Skills and Qualifications for Air Cargo Staff
The air cargo industry requires a unique blend of technical skills, knowledge and personal qualities to ensure safe and efficient operations.

When recruiting and training staff, companies prioritize candidates with a strong foundation in cargo handling, safety regulations and logistics management.

In addition to technical expertise, communication, problem-solving, teamwork and adaptability are highly valued.

Soft skills such as attention to detail, time management and organization are essential for efficient operations and meeting deadlines.

Air cargo companies also seek proactive, flexible individuals who can think critically and respond effectively to unexpected challenges.

Adrien Thominet, Executive Chairman of ECS Group, stated, “Our goal is to go beyond basic criteria and focus on a broader vision of future skills in the air cargo sector. It’s not just about finding candidates with the right technical abilities; we are dedicated to developing individuals who understand market dynamics, can anticipate technological advancements, and adapt to the increasing demands for sustainability and flexibility.

“Our approach sets us apart from other GSAs by offering a strategic vision to our clients, ensuring that every recruitment effort enhances their ability to innovate, grow, and remain competitive in an evolving industry. This commitment to building future-ready teams is what truly differentiates us.”

Beyond technical skills, adaptability, anticipation of customer needs, and alignment with sustainability goals are increasingly important.

Candidates who are committed to continuous learning and improving eco-friendly practices are highly sought after, as these qualities contribute to both operational success and a positive environmental impact.

Assessing Competency and Development
Studies show that 40% of employees leave within the first year due to inadequate training and support.

To combat this, thorough evaluations during recruitment and post-onboarding are vital.

These evaluations identify skill gaps, ensuring new hires are better prepared, which boosts job satisfaction and reduces turnover, saving time and resources.

Michelle House, Managing Director of GAC GB explains, “At GAC GB, we take a comprehensive approach to assessing competency. From the outset, we evaluate industry knowledge and use psychometric tests to measure key competencies like planning, organization, and attention to detail. Once onboard, employees dive into tailored training programs designed to match their specific roles.

“We believe in fostering continuous learning throughout their careers, and to support their growth, employees have regular one-on-one sessions and monthly performance reviews with mentors and managers. This ongoing feedback ensures their development remains on track and aligned with both their goals and the company’s needs.”

Thominet said, “Airlines today demand more than just operational efficiency—they want partners who deliver excellence at every level. Competency assessments go beyond meeting immediate job requirements; they’re about aligning with the long-term goals of the air cargo industry. We collaborate closely with airlines to understand their unique needs, shaping our approach to recruitment and development.

“From psychometric testing to tailored training programs post-onboarding, our aim is to continually enhance our team’s capabilities. This ensures our staff not only meets but exceeds the high standards set by our airline partners, giving them the confidence that their cargo operations are in expert hands.”

Tech-Driven E-Learning for Innovative Mindset
E-learning platforms have transformed training in the air cargo industry, using advanced technology to create engaging, interactive, and personalized learning experiences.

These tech-driven solutions equip teams with the skills needed to thrive in the fast-evolving cargo sector, helping businesses stay ahead and maintain a competitive edge.

Thominet said, “Technology is at the core of our success, and its integration into both training and operations reflects our forward-thinking vision for the air cargo industry. Tools like CargoSpot, Quantum and SkyPallet, which incorporates 3D space optimization, showcase how we’re leveraging advanced technology to enhance precision and efficiency. For example, 3D palletization modelling allows our teams to visualize and optimize cargo space in real time, boosting operational efficiency and reducing costs for our partners.

“Our e-learning platform ensures that all team members master these technologies, but our approach goes beyond just training on tools. It’s about fostering a culture of innovation. By embracing 3D space optimization and other advanced systems, we’re not only improving current operations but also paving the way for the future of cargo management. This proactive strategy sets us apart from other GSAs, establishing us as leaders in technology adoption and operational excellence.”

Managing the Demands of Air Cargo Jobs
Thominet emphasizes the physical and mental challenges that air cargo roles can present, “We recognize that air cargo jobs can be physically and mentally demanding. In our training programs, we ensure that employees are made aware of these challenges and are equipped with the knowledge and tools to manage them effectively. This includes guidance on health and safety practices, as well as an emphasis on maintaining well-being in a fast-paced environment.

“We also encourage ongoing learning and support to help employees adapt to the demands of their roles.”

Thominet explains that new recruits in the GSA sector often face unique challenges, “New recruits in the GSA sector of the air cargo industry often face challenges such as understanding the complexities of airline sales, navigating multiple airline systems, and managing client relationships effectively.

“During training, we focus on familiarizing them with key airline systems, sales processes, and customer service expectations. We also provide guidance on industry-specific regulations and best practices, ensuring that new recruits are equipped to handle the unique demands of a GSA role. Practical training and mentorship help ease their transition into these responsibilities.”

Through this comprehensive approach, new recruits are not only prepared for the technical aspects of their roles but also supported in managing the mental and physical demands that come with the fast-paced air cargo environment.

Specialized Training for Sensitive Cargo
Thominet highlights the importance of thorough training for handling sensitive cargo, “Airlines have strict protocols in place to ensure that their cargo staff are thoroughly trained in handling high-value or sensitive goods, such as pharmaceuticals or live animals.

“This typically involves specialized training programs that focus on industry standards, regulatory requirements, and specific handling procedures for these types of cargo. Employees are trained on how to maintain proper conditions, such as temperature control for pharmaceuticals, or ensuring safety and welfare standards for live animals.”

To stay compliant with evolving regulations, regular updates and refresher courses are conducted, “Additionally, regular updates and refresher courses are conducted to ensure staff remain compliant with evolving regulations and best practices in these areas.”

Thominet continues by sharing the company’s initiative to expand its training offerings, “Starting this year, we are launching training programs for specific commodities and products. We have already published a training on Pharmaceuticals Transportation, receiving positive feedback, and employees find it extremely useful.

“Looking ahead, we are planning to introduce training for Dangerous Goods Transportation and are also in the process of launching a Supply Chain Management in Air Cargo course.”

Arnaudin adds to the conversation by outlining ECS Group’s focus on safety and compliance, “Our training programs emphasize promoting best practices and regulations. We offer training programs on the ECS Code of Ethics and Business Conduct, GDPR regulations, IT Security Awareness, and Sustainability. We require all employees to successfully pass these courses as these trainings are mandatory.”

Together, these efforts ensure that air cargo staff are equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge, and compliance standards to handle sensitive goods, operate safely, and contribute to the overall success of the organization.

Career Growth and Development Opportunities
The diverse career paths offered by GHA offices, TCE subsidiaries, and CargoTech companies are key to fostering long-term professional growth.

Arnaudin explains, “For example, an employee in Operations looking to shift to IT or digital roles can find opportunities with companies like Cargo Digital Factory, Wiremind Cargo, CargoAi, Rotate, and Aerios.”

Thominet highlights the company’s commitment to mentorship as a crucial element for career advancement and retention, “We are actively exploring mentorship programs as a central component of our approach to career advancement and retention within the air cargo industry. These programs are designed to pair experienced professionals with newer staff to provide guidance, share knowledge, and help navigate the complexities of the industry.”

Mentorship, according to Thominet, plays a key role in fostering a sense of belonging and personal growth, which is essential for long-term employee retention, “Mentorship plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging and personal growth, which is essential for long-term retention.”

These combined efforts ensure employees are not only equipped with the skills they need to succeed but are also supported in their personal and professional growth, creating a pathway to long-term success and job satisfaction within the air cargo industry.

Gender Equality in Training and Recruitment
At ECS Group, the belief in gender equality goes beyond fairness—it’s recognized as a vital driver of innovation and business performance.

As Thominet explains, “At ECS Group, with our global presence, we believe that gender equality is not only a matter of fairness but also a key driver of innovation and performance. We are committed to providing equal opportunities and resources to all candidates, regardless of gender, by fostering a truly diverse and inclusive environment.”

By ensuring unbiased recruitment processes and making training programs accessible to everyone, ECS Group creates an environment where contributions are valued based on merit and potential, not gender.

Thominet further adds, “By ensuring that our recruitment processes are unbiased, and our training programs are accessible to everyone, we create a workplace where contributions are valued based on merit and potential, rather than gender.”

This inclusive approach not only enhances ECS Group’s talent pool but strengthens its capacity to serve a diverse and global market.

“Promoting gender equality is integral to our mission of building a workforce that reflects the world we operate in,” concludes Thominet, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to gender equality as a cornerstone of its continued success.