Bridging the digital skills gap in logistics - Heriot-Watt's innovative approach

The logistics industry stands at a pivotal juncture, faced with the unprecedented challenge of a widening digital skills gap that threatens to undermine its growth and competitiveness. The 2024 UK Logistics Digital Infrastructure report reveals that 63% of logistics companies are struggling to keep pace with the acceleration of digital technology solutions likely to be implemented in the next two years.

With digital transformation no longer seen as a luxury but a necessity for companies to keep pace, the logistics industry risks falling behind.

At Heriot-Watt University, we recognise the urgency of this challenge for public and private sector employers countrywide and are committed to being at the forefront of innovative solutions that bridge this divide. Our approach is multifaceted - encompassing industry-focused education programmes, cutting-edge research, and collaborative partnerships with leading companies like Network Rail.

One of our flagship initiatives is our bespoke Graduate Apprenticeship programme, which equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the challenges of a digitally-driven transport and logistics industry. Through these degrees, employees can gain higher education qualifications and future-proof their skills while continuing to work, enabling them to develop the digital competencies that are relevant and in high demand in their respective workplaces.

One of our seven programmes is the Business Management GA degree which focuses on the importance of organisational performance (project management, digital business and new technologies), interpersonal excellence (communications skills, leading and managing people), and personal effectiveness (decision making and managing of self), all important skills and outcomes sought by employers.

Nicola Dawson, Head of Risk and Value Management at Network Rail, is currently undergoing a four year Business Management GA degree at Heriot-Watt which fits around her existing role. She said: "The GA degree has given me a good understanding of how a business works in its entirety. I’ve enjoyed learning about all the different disciplines within a business like the world of marketing for instance, how that role is executed and why.

"The degree has also given me a greater appreciation in terms of human and organisational behaviour and how to apply that within my own role in terms of connecting with, motivating and managing people. In the transport industry specifically it's helped achieve clearer communication with all our stakeholders - be that passengers, staff, government or suppliers.

"Logistics isn't just about getting from point A to point B - you need to know how the supply chain works and how to deliver the service as a whole system. Within that, it is essential to be aware of how digital transformation is evolving in the industry. The GA programme has been really helpful in that I've been able to apply what I've learned into practical solutions within the office when it comes to aspects like analysing data and working more efficiently with our digitally-led intelligence infrastructure.

Collaborative partnerships with leading logistics companies like Network Rail, help our university translate our research findings into practical applications, and drive digital transformation within the industry. Alongside our talent offering, we are also leading the way in the UK for our research in supply chain and logistics, with our projects DARe and TransiT charting the path forward for decarbonisation of heavy industry. This synergy between academia and industry not only fosters knowledge exchange but also ensures that our educational offerings remain relevant and aligned with the evolving needs of the sector.

Additionally, GAs allow businesses to nurture and retain talented individuals, reducing costly employee turnover and promoting long-term loyalty and empower businesses to proactively address their specific skill gaps and business challenges. Heriot-Watt also offers GAs designed to create specific digital skills in Data Science and Software Development.

In an era where digital literacy is non-negotiable, Heriot-Watt is committed to playing a pivotal role in bridging the digital skills gap in logistics. By fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and industry-focused education, we are empowering the next generation of logistics professionals to navigate the challenges of a digitally-driven world with confidence and expertise.

Article by Professor Gillian Murray, Deputy Principal for Enterprise and Business at Heriot-Watt University