After finishing his studies at the University of Applied Sciences in Worms, southwest Germany, Alp Cengizalp (AC) faced difficulties to find a suitable job in the logistics industry. In the process, he came across the program offerings of the Logistics Training Center (LTC), which gave him the opportunity to acquire additional, targeted qualifications for the logistics sector.The specialized knowledge he gained there laid an important foundation for his future career as entrepreneur. We spoke with the manager about his rather unusual career path.
CFG: Alp, congratulations on successfully completing the LTC program and launching your own business! Looking back, what was the most valuable part of your retraining for your day-to-day work as an entrepreneur today?
AC: Thanks for the compliment. During my studies at the University of Applied Sciences in Worms, I developed an interest in logistics matters but it was tough to gain a suitable job despite the universal degree I obtained. That’d why I decided “to go to school again” to gain additional qualifications in logistics to enhance my career prospects.
CFG: How would you rate the guidance and support you received from the LTC as a basis for starting your own business?
AC: My professional journey wasn’t really easy, but I saw every step along the way as an opportunity. The training program at LTC was the starting point for my career in air freight. At the LTC, I gained a new perspective and, at the same time, developed the confidence that I could indeed launch my own career alongside my studies by leveraging the additional expertise I gained there.
CFG: Which phases or topics during your continuing education did you find most challenging—and how did overcoming these hurdles later on help you find the courage to take the leap into self-employment?
AC: The biggest challenge for me was familiarizing myself with a new field while simultaneously entering the working life. But it was precisely this experience that showed me that with a willingness to learn and perseverance, you can accomplish a lot on your way to achieving your desired goal. In my case it was the inception of Trade Log GmbH in Kelsterbach near Frankfurt Airport.
CFG: Was there a specific moment or project during your retraining when you knew: “Yes, air freight and logistics is my field – and this is where I’m going to build my own business”?
AC: The training gave me a solid technical foundation. Today, in practice, I see just how important that foundation is. But it wasn’t until I had started my own business, realizing that as an entrepreneur, there are many additional areas to deal with, such as customer acquisition, finances, organizational matters, and strategical issues. That’s when I perceived just how relevant the knowledge gained through theoretical training actually is to master everyday life in business.
Courageous decision
CFG. How did you experience the transition from unemployment, through school, and directly into self-employment?
AC: It wasn’t a straight path, but rather a journey that took me through several stages. My interest in logistics didn’t stem from unemployment (I was never unemployed, just dissatisfied). Every now and then, I toyed with the idea of working in an industry that I’d enjoy. After finishing my studies at the University of Applied Sciences, I initially worked as hotel employee for some time. During that phase, I wrestled with the idea of building a new career path aligned with my interests. By chance – but very fortuitously – I learned about the opportunity for continuing education at LTC, which, in retrospect, served as the key and gateway to my career in logistics. Following that episode, I founded my own IATA freight forwarding agency Trade Log. Today, I see all these different stages as important building blocks of my professional advancement.
New role as entrepreneur
CFG: What is the focus of your new company, and while being your own boss, what does your current scope of responsibility look like?
AC: My company specializes in air freight and freight forwarding services. Formerly, I used to be responsible for a single area; today, I oversee all operations – from customer service and day-to-day operations to sales, organization, and strategic decision-making. It’s a lot of responsibility, but at the same time, it’s very fulfilling to have built something of my own and to continue developing it.
CFG: Logistics is constantly evolving (digitalization, supply chains, AI etc.). How do you leverage these dynamics and current market opportunities for your own business?
AC: Air freight is constantly changing. That’s what’s so fascinating about this industry. So its key to remain flexible, take advantage of new technologies and developments, and at the same time maintain personal contact with customers. As an independent freight forwarder, we are able to react quickly to market challenges, offering customized solutions fitting the needs of our clients. This is a very challenging task, but one that is extremely rewarding.
CFG: What practical advice do you have for people who are unemployed or undergoing retraining and who also dream of starting their own business?AC: My advice is: Seize the opportunity you have and be patient. Learn as much as you can, gain practical experience, and build a strong network. That knowledge obtained through the LTC training courses was invaluable and later helped me successfully build my own business.
