Generic competences of port workers at the Port of Santos (SP)

Abstract

Port work has changed due to economic globalization processes and technological innovations. Further changes are taking place in ports with the advent of the Fourth Revolution, new professional skills and, among them, the so-called generic competences. Research’s objectives were to investigate generic competences (1) self-perceived by port workers, (2) required by representatives of port companies and institutions that take part in the training and education of such workers, and (3) valued by union representatives linked to the port. Data collection was performed online and in person among the participants, workers at the Port of Santos (SP). Statistical data analysis was performed using correspondence analysis. Results indicated that port operation workers, port companies, and institutions engaged in port education and unions understand differently the importance of generic professional competences for port work. This mismatch of views can be a negative element for a better performance of the sector.