Four days of training mobility in Venice to use new immersive technologies (XR), develop cross-sector skills and create a network of professional contacts at European level. The European NeXTrain.Ports project, co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme and led by the North Tyrrenian Port Network Authority (PNA) is now underway.
The project partners selected 12 port workers, inclusing 6 from the port of Livorno for this initiative. From 24th to 28th November, they had the opportunity to explore sustainability and energy transition in the port context, analysing practical cases and solutions adopted in the Port of Venice. Considerable attention was given to digitalization and safety, with practical examples of how technology is applied in operational processes.
The training program was enhanced with visits to the main port terminals and the MOSE system. This allowed participants to observe first-hand operational dynamics and strategic infrastructure for protecting the city and managing maritime traffic.
What made this training initiative particularly innovative was the use of XR (Extended Reality) technology and immersive simulators, which allowed participants to enjoy realistic, interactive experiences, simulating vessel operations and crane handling, to improve their techncial and decision-making skills in complex scenarios.
The training mobility intiative concluded with a group discussion and validation of what the participants had learned, faciliting their exchanging ideas and best practices.
The next phase of the project is scheduled to take place in Valencia in February 2026. It will be dedicated to IT & Innovation Area Managers and Environmental & Energy Transition Area Managers.
Translation by Giles Foster
