Sustainable opportunities in the craft: trainees rely on future professions

Sustainable opportunities in the craft: trainees rely on future professions

The Chamber of Crafts Niederbayern-Oberpfalz presented remarkable results at the beginning of the new training year. Around 5,000 new teaching contracts have been concluded, which represents an increase compared to the previous year. This development is particularly important because the need for specialists in the region is still high, while at the same time many apprenticeships remain vacant. Hans Schmidt, the deputy general manager of the Chamber of Crafts, described the new generation of trainees as crucial for the future of the industry.

The young people clearly set their priorities. Sustainability, regional connection and future -proof professions are at the top of your list. Schmidt notes that the craft can operate these aspects excellently. "The professions in the craft are increasingly perceived as environmentally friendly and crisis -proof," he emphasizes. In this context, activities that contribute to the energy transition are of interest. A positive perception of this industry shows that the craft can arouse appropriate interest through teamwork and meaningful professions.

The shortage of skilled workers remains a challenge

Although the numbers for new training contracts appear promising at first glance, the shortage of skilled workers remains a serious challenge. "We even have more applicants than job offers in some professional sectors," says Schmidt and leads this as a positive example. Nevertheless, not all open apprenticeships have been occupied, which would provide the companies with additional problems. Schmidt points out that comprehensive professional orientation and numerous information events are crucial to increase the interest in training occupations in the craft.

With a market that is increasingly considered a applicant market, school leavers are in the comfortable location to choose their apprenticeships. According to the employment agency, there are an average of 1.7 open apprenticeships per applicant in Lower Bavaria, while in the Upper Palatinate this value is even 2.6. These statistics illustrate the attractive possibilities that exist for school leavers to opt for a craft training.

Overall, it can be seen that around 22 percent of all school leavers strive for training in the craft in Eastern Bavaria. This is not a bad result, given the fact that more and more secondary school students and high school students choose their way to the craft professions. "We have to strive to clearly communicate the advantages of training in the craft," explains Schmidt. The master's degree, which is equally recognized as an academic bachelor's degree, is a strong argument for young people who are looking for solid career perspectives.

Currently there are 684 open training positions in Eastern Bavaria in the apprenticeship exchange of the Chamber of Crafts, spread over various professions. The highest need is the fields of electronics, construction and mechanics. The most sought-after apprenticeships include the motor vehicle mechatronics engineer, electronics technician and plant mechanic for sanitary, heating and air conditioning technology. These professions not only offer good career opportunities, but also actively contribute to environmental protection, which makes them particularly attractive for today's youth.