Applications for Gear Up 2026 will open on 3 June 2026.
Consult the application section below for full instructions. (link to apply at the bottom of the page)Application closing date: 25 June 2026
Exercise Description
Led by the Logistics and Telecommunications Cluster (LTC), gear.UP is a training simulation for partner agencies and organisations to collaborate and overcome challenges together; emergency responders form a trusted network in a demanding scenario which reflects the intensity of global emergency environments.
This intensive 8-day field exercise is prepared by the World Food Programme (WFP), as global lead of the LTC, generously hosted by Technisches Hilfswerk (THW) and made possible with support from Ericsson Response, German Federal Foreign Office, and the Government of the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg.
- Exercise Duration: 8 days
- Location: THW Training Centre, Neuhausen, Near Stuttgart, Germany
- Number of Participants: 45
- Exercise environment: Field accommodation with simulated field conditions
Methodology: The Logistics and Telecommunications Cluster is following adult learning theories. This training exposes participants to situations in which they will have to apply knowledge from previous experiences and will be learning by doing (including failing!).
Who can participate?
The participants of gear.UP should have a strong logistics background and/or relevant other profiles (e.g. Information Management) with substantial field experience while the facilitators can be senior logistics officers or have other applicable senior specialization. Previous participation in the Logistics Cluster Induction training (online or face-to-face) is mandatory.
Selection criteria:
Participants should have mid to senior level positions in their organisation with (extensive) experience in emergency response (minimum of 5 years of experience);
- Have operational experience in logistics, supply, transportation, IM, warehousing, negotiations (preferable);
- Inter-agency and coordination experience;
- Humanitarian field experience in emergencies;
- Managerial experience;
- Communication skills;
- Willingness to learn and to be open minded;
- Stress resistance and willingness to stay in rough field accommodation for the simulation (tents, limited access to sanitation facilities, MRE food). Participants have to commit to live in this set-up for a full week!
- It is essential that participants are stress resistant, with a high frustration tolerance and comply with the Code of Conduct (WFP or IFRC).
- The expectation is that the participant will work in team in a variety of roles during the simulation and therefore be willing to be flexible in their working roles and enthusiastic in regard to the simulation;
- Participants should be willing to work outside their comfort zone and accept working in international teams with different approaches;
- The training is intensive and as such the hours worked will likely be long (e.g. 6 a.m. – 3 a.m.; with little or no sleep). There is no chance to work on activities linked to their regular position/job.
- Have completed the Basic and Advanced Security in the Field training (online from UNDSS) and additional required self-paced e-learnings through the Logistics Cluster e-learning portal, as indicated below;
How to Participate?
To learn more about how to apply, click here.
Potential candidates and facilitators should apply no later than 25 June 2026 18:00 CEST. Participants will be required to send a letter of support from their Focal Point or supervisor to global.gearup@wfp.org once the application form has been submitted. Applications without this will not be considered complete. This is a very competitive training. Applying does not guarantee acceptance.
Cost and Funding:
Accommodation and full-board catering will be provided from 12-19 September (facilitators 10-19 September). Covering only lunch on the 19 September 2026. The training is free of charge for participants and facilitators.
Participating organisations are responsible for costs related to travel and terminals (as well as potential catering/accommodation outside the training period) and should be funded through participating organisations.
To apply follow this link
Any further question, comment or suggestion please communicate with us through global.gearup@wfp.org