𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗹𝗼𝘄 - 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝗮 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲

When I joined ESS-FOOD as a Shipping Trainee, I didn’t have all the answers. But I knew I wanted to be part of something international, fast-paced, and real.

I had heard about the shipping world through friends and family, and it immediately felt like a good match. A place where things actually matter. Where decisions have consequences. Where timing,
details, and people all have to come together to make things move from A to B.

As a trainee, you’re still learning. Every day. Some of that happens in school, where I get a broader understanding of shipping and logistics from the other side of the desk. But most of it happens here, in the day-to-day work. Managing orders, coordinating with forwarders, talking to colleagues and partners across the world. That’s where it really clicks.

What I enjoy most is the problem-solving. There are many moving parts in shipping, and when something doesn’t go as planned, you have to stay calm, think ahead, and find a solution. When it all comes together at the end of the day, that feeling is hard to beat.

Being a trainee at ESS-FOOD also means being trusted. There’s room to make mistakes, learn from them, and grow. People take the time to help you, explain things, and support you - whether you’re new to the office or new to the industry. You’re not expected to know everything. You’re expected to be curious and willing to learn.

The culture plays a big role in that. There’s a lot of experience here - people who have been in the business for many years - and they’re always willing to share their knowledge. At the same time, the trainee community is close. You learn together, travel together, and get a real understanding of how the business works, from suppliers to ports to customers.

I’m proud of the role I play - both professionally and socially. I try to bring a positive mindset, stay detail-oriented, and keep an overview in a world where details matter more than you think. In shipping, one missing document can stop everything. Catching that early makes all the difference.

Outside of work, I spend my time playing football, coaching, and being with my girlfriend, family, and friends. That balance helps - because this industry moves fast, and it’s good to recharge.

I’m still a trainee.
Still learning. Still growing.
And excited to see where this journey at ESS-FOOD will take me next.