From Classroom to Container Ship: How an NUS EMBA Student Brought Global Trade to Life

The NUS Executive MBA (EMBA) is renowned for its experiential, real-world approach to leadership development — and this time, that experience set sail into the heart of global logistics.

Last Saturday, Amy Park, an NUS EMBA student and Deputy General Manager at HMM — South Korea’s flagship carrier — welcomed her classmates aboard the HMM Bangkok at Singapore’s PSA port. In a rare behind-the-scenes tour, she offered her peers an up-close look at the container shipping industry — the often-invisible engine behind global commerce.

Immersive Learning in Action

While EMBA courses dissect global supply chains in theory, few lessons compare to standing on the deck of a working container ship. M/V HMM Bangkok, with a capacity of 6,800 TEUs, is one of the smallest vessels in HMM’s fleet. Originally, a 24,000-TEU megaship was scheduled for the visit, but global disruptions forced a change — a real-time case study in the volatility and complexity of international logistics.

Classmates explored the ship’s bridge, observed live port operations, and spoke with crew members who spend up to eight months at sea. For many, it was the first time witnessing the intricate choreography of vessel design, container handling, and port maneuvering firsthand.

Leadership Beyond the Classroom

This wasn’t just a field trip — it was leadership in action. Amy leveraged her industry experience to create a high-impact learning opportunity that went beyond textbooks and case studies. Her initiative reflected the NUS EMBA’s philosophy: peer-led learning where students contribute to each other’s growth by sharing access to their industries, networks, and expertise.

Global Perspectives, Grounded in Reality

Beyond business mechanics, the visit highlighted the human side of global trade — from young Korean officers to seasoned seafarers who keep supply chains running. It was a vivid reminder that the flow of goods across oceans depends on the commitment and resilience of real people.

Conclusion: Small Ship, Big Impact

Whether leading from a classroom or the bridge of a ship, true leadership means building connections, creating access, and deepening understanding. Thanks to Amy Park and HMM, this immersive experience delivered a powerful lesson — even the smallest ship can carry a world of insight.