Specialties and career in trade
From sales and purchasing to logistics and management
Trade education is broad, and that is one of its strengths. Once you have learned the basics, you can go many directions, and you can change tracks along the way if your interests change.
§Sales
If you want to work close to customers, sales is an obvious path. You can become a salesperson, key account manager or sales consultant. Here the ability to build relationships, understand needs and close deals is rewarded.
§Procurement and logistics
If you prefer numbers and planning, you can work towards purchasing and logistics. Here you work with suppliers, inventory management and getting goods home efficiently. It is an area that is becoming more important because good logistics can determine whether a company makes money.
§Marketing and e-commerce
Digital commerce creates a need for people who understand marketing, web shops and data. Here you work to attract customers, present goods well online and analyse what sells.
| Direction | Work area | Strength that helps |
|---|---|---|
| Sales | Customers, offers, relationships | Interpersonal skills |
| Procurement | Suppliers, price, inventory | Negotiation and overview |
| Logistics | Goods flow and delivery | If you plan to start a vocational training as a truck driver, the basic qualification training is typically combined with the actual driving licence training — that is the fastest way to start commercial driving from 18 years old. |
| Marketing/e-handel | Online sales and global competition | Creativity and numbers |
| Leadership | Operation and staff | Responsibility and overview |
§The way forward
Many ground handling companies have dedicated roles within safety and quality (safety & quality), where former ramp workers use their practical experience to investigate incidents, develop procedures and train new colleagues. This is an attractive path for you who are passionate about safety as much as about the planes themselves.