Partnership for Success: FERCAM Logistics & Transport
In 2023, CUAS partnered with FERCAM Logistics & Transport, marking an important step in aligning higher education with real-world industry demands. This collaboration goes beyond traditional academic-industry partnerships by linking the talent needs of global companies with the aspirations of international graduates. The goal is to foster talent that thrives in a globalized economy while building strong connections between academia and industry to retain talent in Carinthia.
Dr. Colin Heller, head of the Intercultural Management (ICM) program and a seasoned logistics expert, emphasizes the critical role of cross-border competencies in international management: "International logistics involves managing the flow of goods, information, and finances across borders. To succeed, students need to understand how to optimize global supply chains and navigate the complexities of cross-border trade. Cultural awareness and effective communication are equally vital for collaboration in a global business environment."
Through this partnership, CUAS integrates multilingual skills and logistical expertise into its curriculum, preparing students to excel in diverse and dynamic international contexts.
A 3-Level Model for Industry Collaboration
CUAS and FERCAM have established a three-level partnership model that blends real-world exposure with academic rigor, ensuring students gain practical experience while contributing to industry innovation.
Level 1: Internships
Students engage with the international logistics market, honing skills in cross-border communication and operations. By the sixth semester, they are well-prepared for industry internships that provide invaluable practical experience.
Level 2: Collaborative Projects
Practice-oriented learning is a cornerstone of the CUAS curriculum. In the Project Management module during the fourth semester, students collaborate with FERCAM on real-world challenges, working in teams to develop solutions.
Level 3: Business Research and Bachelor’s Paper Research
Preparing business students for their professional careers while developing their business research skills is a cornerstone of the BA business curriculum at CUAS. In the fourth semester, students gain hands-on experience by visiting company headquarters in Spittal, where they practice observation techniques and conduct real-life expert interviews. These activities equip them with invaluable business research management skills. As part of the Research Skills II module, students are trained to design questionnaires and conduct expert interviews, blending academic rigor with practical application. Supported by FERCAM Austria, students benefit from access to in-house research opportunities, bridging classroom learning with real-world industry experience.
In their final BA year, students apply their academic knowledge to real-world problems through BA-level research. This collaboration benefits both students and FERCAM by providing insights that enhance decision-making and operational efficiency.
Nabil Nisrine is a 6th semester ICM student working with Dr. Colin Heller on her BA proposal linked to the empirical research for FERCAM in the French-speaking countries of Northern Africa.
“The FERCAM team is incredibly diverse and dynamic, making every day an exciting new adventure. Communicating in French adds another layer of challenge and excitement, and I’m eager to help explore new horizons for the company in untapped markets.” Nabil Nisrine (international student from Morocco).
Real-World Experience for Global Impact
The CUAS-FERCAM partnership embodies the School of Management's commitment to practice-oriented education and global industry collaboration. It is a part of the SoM Strategic project “RWE: Real World Experience.” By preparing students to excel in the real world, CUAS ensures its graduates are not only ready for the challenges of international logistics but are also equipped to lead in the global business landscape.
Through this partnership, CUAS is creating a new standard for business education: one that prioritizes hands-on experience, cultural competence, multilingualism, and meaningful connections between academia and industry.
Learn more Information about FERCAM-CUAS Cooperation:
https://www.fh-kaernten.at/news/detail/enhancing-higher-education-through-real-world-international-logistics-projects-research-and-internships
Interview: Ms. Sabina Memic, ICM alumna, transport Manager:
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/gas1dLZQJ1E
Learn more about our international jobs in Carinthia and innovative recruitment of international talent in the interview with FERCAM Logistics & Transport FH Ms. Nina Feiersinger: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cm8BG-bSeE8&t=144s
Internships and BA coordinator for ICM: FH-prof. Dr. Colin Heller, ICM Program Director Project Management and Research Coordinator for ICM: FH-prof. Dr. Svetlana Buko, Vice Dean for Internationalization, School of Management.
