The FTA has signed a three-year sponsorship deal with Think Logistics, the educational scheme founded by Abbey Logistics MD Steve Granite that works to promote careers in logistics to students aged 16-19.
The trade association said the sponsorship was one of many ways it plans to attract more fresh blood into the industry.
As part of the sponsorship it said it will encourage its members to participate in Think Logistics workshops, which take place in schools and colleges across the UK.
It also plans to work with charity Career Ready to double the number of Logistics Career Academies, of which six are currently in existence, in the coming year.
The academies, which are set up in colleges and schools, provide courses for young people looking to move into a career in logistics.
James Hookham, FTA deputy chief executive, said: “Think Logistics is an inspired project led by its founder Steve Granite aimed at making this industry understandable to the next generation of drivers, managers and technicians.
“FTA is pleased to be supporting and helping develop the project and delivering programmes at this scale across the country to the key audience of 16-18 year olds, as part of our skills development campaign.”
Steve Granite said: "“We are absolutely delighted with the FTA’s sponsorship of Think Logistics which will enable us to scale up our efforts and achieve the ambitious plans we are currently drawing up. Our industry needs young people but awareness of Logistics career opportunities is very low amongst young people and teachers.
"Think Logistics, in partnership with Career Ready, are the bridge between employers and schools/colleges and we are aiming to create a talent pipeline of young people and help give those school leavers a career opportunity. The final piece in the jigsaw is employers getting involved and engaging with their local schools via the Think Logistics program. We have the young people who want to hear about our industry, now the employers need to play their role!”
Ian Nichol, STEM development manager at Career Ready, added: “This partnership will give Career Ready and the Think Logistics programme an incredible opportunity to engage FTA’s members to work with young people.
“In return FTA members offering to deliver Think Logistics workshops and supporting the new Career Ready logistics centres will help the industry to attract highly motivated and work ready young people to meet current and future skills needs.”
Earlier this year Daf announced it had agreed on a three-year sponsorship with the scheme, which will see it provide Think Logistics with a set amount of money over the period.
At the time, Daf MD Ray Ashworth said: “At last, a serious initiative addressing the industry’s root concerns.
“I’ve been deeply impressed with Think Logistics and how it has been engaging directly with young people at schools and colleges.
