Across the industry there are leaders at every level who are being challenged to think and act in new ways. The same is true for this commission. This can't be a "business as usual" review of the industry's status. As the first such government commission in this new century we are faced with a unique opportunity and a unique set of challenges. In this paper we provide analysis and recommendations on human capital issues that are simultaneously designed to be practical and visionary -- aimed to address root causes, not symptoms. / White Paper Version 2

Technical skills are no longer enough for workers to compete in this highly competitive global work environment. Soft skills are of paramount importance. A multiple case study design through the lens of emotional intelligence formed the basis of the research study. The focus of the research was identification of the successful soft skills training strategies in the logistics industry. Three logistics organization leaders in the counties of Burlington, Middlesex, and Somerset, New Jersey, were participants in the study. Data were collected through semistructured interviews and the review of company documents. Four themes emerged through data analysis of converging multiple data sources: (a) the use of a combination of group and individual training, (b) the identification of training needs by individual, (c) the use of a systematic method to resolve emotional behaviors at work, and (d) the importance of effective communication. The study findings may contribute to social change by providing guidelines to use for setting up soft skills training programs. The soft skills training program may be used to target disadvantaged individuals who are unemployed or living in poverty. Improving the soft skills of disadvantaged individuals may help them gain and retain suitable employment. Gainful employment may have a long-term effect of improving their quality of life, while reducing their reliance on social welfare programs.