Discover the Letange family's multi-generational impact on the petrochemical logistics industry. Their story highlights bridging generational gaps and inspiring young talent to pursue careers in this evolving field.
News | 25/11/2024
Inspiring Generations in Logistics – A Family Legacy at EPCA
For this article, we spotlight the Letange family, whose dedication to the petrochemical logistics industry spans generations. Their story offers insights into bridging generational gaps, building a diverse workforce, and the importance of inspiring young people to pursue careers in petrochemicals.
EPCA-Interviewer: Yves, Maxim, Olivier – thank you for joining us for this interview! Your family’s commitment to the industry is both inspiring and timely, given the challenges in attracting young talent, especially in sectors like petrochemicals and logistics. Yves, you’ve attended EPCA for two decades now. What keeps you coming back, and what makes this year’s EPCA so special?
Yves Letange (Managing Director, PSA BDP Europe): I’ve been coming to EPCA since 2004, and I can say it’s the best networking event of the year! It’s always incredibly well-organized and gives us a unique opportunity to connect with our major clients within just a few days. Plus, it’s perfect timing since it coincides with our budgeting for the next year. These meetings help us forecast what’s coming and guide us on the direction our industry is headed. This year is special for me because it marks the first EPCA I’m attending with both of my sons, Maxim and Olivier. Watching them build their own careers in the industry and seeing the family legacy continue makes me an extremely proud dad.
Interviewer: That sounds incredible! Maxim, let’s talk about your experience. How has attending EPCA with your family impacted you, and what new developments are you excited to share this year?
Maxim Letange (Business Development Manager, Van Moer Logistics): EPCA is our main event at Van Moer Logistics to meet customers and partners, discuss future opportunities and announce important projects. This year, for example, we're presenting a new silo storage project in the Port of Antwerp - a development that speaks to the future of sustainable logistics. Growing up, I remember hearing my father talk about the impact of attending EPCA and how the insights he gained each year shaped his work. Now, sharing that experience with my father and brother brings a new level of excitement and motivation. It's more than just an event; it's a family tradition that has real meaning for each of us.
Interviewer: Olivier, it’s your first time at EPCA, yet you’ve already mentioned some “friendly competition” between you, Maxim, and Yves! How has this event shaped your perspective on the industry?
Olivier Letange (Sales Manager, Vopak Belgium): Yes, this is my first EPCA and I'm thrilled to be here! I'm representing Vopak and networking with key players in the petrochemical supply chain. The opportunity to connect with industry leaders and innovators is invaluable, especially as we navigate a rapidly evolving landscape. The fact that I get to do it alongside my father and brother makes it even more memorable. As for the competition, yes, we challenge each other to see who can secure the most appointments - all in good fun, of course! It's our way of keeping each other motivated and strengthening the sense of family unity.
Interviewer: Your family is a perfect example of multi-generational involvement in logistics and petrochemicals. What advice would you give to young people considering a career in this industry?
Yves: My biggest piece of advice is to stay curious and engaged. There's always something new to learn and every year brings new challenges. The petrochemical industry is constantly evolving, and there will always be a place for young people who are willing to innovate and adapt. Plus, the networking opportunities - like those at EPCA - are unparalleled. Meeting people face-to-face opens doors and provides insights that can shape entire careers.
Maxim: I'd like to add that studying business and industrial sciences like I did is incredibly versatile, and working in logistics is no exception. It's not just about science or numbers; it's about problem solving, strategy, and connecting with people. Our industry needs young people who think differently and aren't afraid to try new approaches.
Olivier: I agree with both. My young career is dynamic and every day brings new challenges. The work we do impacts the global supply chain and ultimately improves people's lives. If you're someone who wants to make a tangible difference, this industry has a lot to offer.
Interviewer: Finally, how do you see the EPCA contributing to the future of the industry and initiatives like attracting young talent?
Yves: EPCA creates an environment that brings together established industry veterans and fresh talent. Such a platform is essential for the future of petrochemicals. It allows for intergenerational knowledge transfer and sparks discussions on how to tackle issues ranging from sustainability to talent shortages. If we want to attract young people, we need to make these fields more visible and accessible, and EPCA helps to do just that.
Maxim: Absolutely. Events like EPCA show the potential and reach of the industry. Being able to announce major projects, such as our silo storage initiative at the Port of Antwerp, on such a stage highlights the opportunities that exist for innovation and growth in logistics.
Olivier: EPCA also inspires us to look ahead, not just at what's happening now. For me, being exposed to future trends and developments has been invaluable, especially as a newcomer. I think it's important for young people to see the real impact of industries like ours.
As Yves, Maxim, and Olivier demonstrate, family legacies like theirs contribute to an industry that is not only evolving but actively working to engage the next generation. In an era of talent shortage, stories like these inspire a diverse future workforce that can bring fresh insights to logistics and petrochemicals.
