Adapting to Logistics Tech: FAST Pushes for Upskilling of Supply Chain Workers

Aug 8, 2025

As the logistics landscape continues to evolve with the rise of automation and digital systems, FAST Logistics Group underscored the vital role of upskilling human capital in driving industry resilience and long-term progress.

Speaking at the 2025 Warehousing Summit by SCMAP Visayas Chapter in Cebu on Friday, August 8, FAST Warehousing and Value-Added Services (VAS) Business Unit Head Aron Christian Javier emphasized that while technology is transforming supply chain operations, people remain at the heart of it.

Speaking at the 2025 Warehousing Summit by SCMAP Visayas Chapter in Cebu on Friday, August 8, FAST Warehousing and Value-Added Services (VAS) Head Aron Christian Javier said that while technology is transforming supply chain, people remain at the heart of it.

“In industries that require compassion, people shouldn’t be replaced,” Aron shared during the event’s Q&A. “It should be people and technology working hand in hand for efficiency and scalability.”

FAST, the Philippines’ leading end-to-end logistics and supply chain solutions provider, has long championed talent development to its innovation strategy.

Through its Learning and Innovation Hub in Cabuyao, Laguna, the company provides tailored training programs designed to empower employees with future-ready skills. According to Aron, this commitment is essential as logistics organizations and supply chain professionals increasingly adopt systems like Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and AI-powered solutions.

“We still face a talent scarcity,” Aron said. “That’s why we need to retrain our warehouse employees and provide them with the competencies needed for today’s technologies.”

People-Centric Innovation for Efficiency

FAST’s partnership with the leading tech brand Honeywell to implement WMS across more than 70 warehouse sites illustrates the company’s tech-forward approach. However, Aron noted that deploying technology is only half the equation, as what truly makes the system effective is the ability of people to use it confidently.

FAST has established the Learning and Innovation Hub, a training center dedicated to logistics education—the first of its kind in the Philippines. It offers training and immersion programs for both aspiring recruits and current employees.

Aron also highlighted the importance of collaboration between logistics companies and academic institutions to prepare the next generation of supply chain professionals.

“FAST partners with the academe to help write modules and update curriculum,” he said. “It’s really about collaboration so schools can catch up with the evolving needs of the industry.”

This reflects FAST’s broader vision of purpose-driven work. Beyond technical know-how, Aron emphasized the importance of instilling a deeper understanding of why supply chain work matters.

“It’s just a career if you sell potential rewards. It becomes more fulfilling and long-lasting when people understand the purpose of what they do.”

When asked how FAST helps its people adapt to change, especially those who may be resistant, Aron pointed to leadership as a key driver. He cited the need for a strong change management program in logistics organizations to drive engagement and shift culture during change implementation.

“Training is just one part of implementing change,” he said. “Leadership is what truly drives the change and helps overcome challenges.”

Building a Future-Ready Workforce

As the logistics industry becomes more tech-driven, FAST remains steadfast in its belief that investing in people is the best way to future-proof operations. The company continues to lead by example, deploying tech-forward systems while ensuring that its workforce evolves alongside the technology.

Whether through internal upskilling programs or academic partnerships, FAST is shaping a skilled and purpose-driven supply chain workforce committed to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

With over 50 years of industry leadership, FAST continues to set the standard in end-to-end logistics and supply chain management in the Philippines. We take pride in our innovative solutions and a dedicated team that works tirelessly to optimize supply chain operations.

To learn more about FAST, connect with our Solutions Experts or visit http://linktr.ee/fastlogisticsph