Train in freight transport

The apprenticeship

The Logistic Associate Apprenticeship.

The industry

Logistics is a specialised field involving the planning of the transport of goods. It could involve shipping, warehousing, courier services, road/rail transportation and air freight, and apprentices have an administrative role.

How to apply

See the website Laa.ie. Apprentices have to be employed by an approved business. They could be a new entrant or an existing employee seeking to upskill. To make enquiries about opportunities contact info@laa.ie

What to expect

Transport planning is becoming an increasingly sophisticated industry with just-in-time delivery. New skills may also be required as a result of Brexit, Britain’s departure from the EU.

The apprentice works for their employer four days a week, and on one day per week they attend Technological University Dublin (formerly DIT). The logistics industry involves a wide variety of businesses related to transport. Apprentices could be working for a haulage company, a freight forwarder or a shipping business.

What you learn

Apprentices learn about a wide variety of topics both on and off the job during the two-year programme. In work they each have a mentor who ensures that they are getting proper training and the apprentice keeps a work journal. Among the subjects covered are Customs and International Trade, IT, Road and Sea Freight Logistics, and Distribution and Warehousing.

What are the prospects?

There is huge demand for skilled employees in the industry. According to estimates, logistics needs 35,000 new entrants by 2025. There is no fixed wage for apprentices, and final salaries vary according to employers.