Bridging theory and practice: Industry-driven learning in 'Integrated Logistics'
The MSc programme in Logistics and Transport Management provides students with a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical insights. A prime example of this approach is the first-semester Integrated Logistics course, which gives students direct experience of real-world logistics challenges by collaborating closely with leading industry partners.
This autumn, students engaged with three prominent organisations — American Airlines, Göteborgs Lastbilcentral (GLC) and APM Terminals — through guest lectures and site visits that brought logistics theory to life.
American Airlines: Advanced Analytics in Air Transport
As part of American Airlines’ University Engagement and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (UE-DEI) initiatives, students had the privilege of learning from the Operations Research & Advanced Analytics Team at the world’s largest airline by several metrics, including fleet size and passenger volume. José Ramírez-Hernández, Irandokht Parviziomran, Samuel Rodríguez-González, and John Edgar Fontecha García shared insights into key operational challenges such as crew scheduling, inventory balancing optimization, and predictive maintenance. They demonstrated how data-driven decision-making supports American Airlines' global operations, which comprise over 6,000 daily departures spanning 61 countries.
Göteborgs Lastbilcentral (GLC): Electrifying Road Freight Transport
A site visit and lecture with Sandra Ingvaldsson from GLC gave students an insight into the company’s electrification journey. With 90 years of experience in trucking, GLC is now at the forefront of sustainable transport solutions in the region. The visit provided valuable insights into the transition to electric fleets and their operational implications for road freight operations. “A key lesson from GLC was that despite failures and “fairy-tale” cases, electrification remains a key pathway to the future of transport”, says Elmira Parviziomran, postdoctoral researcher and course manager for the course 'Integrated Logistics'.
APM Terminals: Global Container Trade at the Port of Gothenburg
Students also visited the Port of Gothenburg, guided by Per Wahlström from APM Terminals. His lecture covered the dynamics of global container trade, the Swedish container market and APM Terminals' role in the international logistics landscape. With operations in 33 countries and 60 terminals, and over 27,000 vessel calls in 2024, APM Terminals is a prime example of the scale and complexity of gateway operations linking sea, rail, and road.
These industry engagements form a key part of the Integrated Logistics course, providing students with a valuable opportunity to apply classroom learning to practical business scenarios. Interacting with professionals and observing operations first-hand gives students a deeper understanding of the logistics ecosystem and the analytical tools that drive it.
This practical approach enriches the learning experience and prepares students to tackle the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry.