- New training year starts - shortage of skilled workers in view
At the start of the new training year, Hesse's Minister of Economics, Kaweh Mansoori, highlights the shortage of skilled workers and trainees. "Especially small and medium-sized businesses, particularly in crafts, retail, and industry, are struggling to fill their vacant positions," said the SPD politician in Wiesbaden. Projections suggest that by 2028, Hesse could face a shortage of around 200,000 skilled workers, with about 135,000 of those not having an academic education background. The new training year begins on August 1st.
The minister called on both young people and businesses to utilize opportunities for re-matching. "Those who still don't have a training contract can still have good chances of starting a dual training program," he said. As of late June, around 16,000 training positions were still vacant at the employment agencies. Similarly, around 13,000 young people were still registered as job seekers.
According to the data, around 36,000 young people started a training program in a Hesse-based company last year. Around 87,000 were in a dual training program in the state in 2023. "They are taking the first important step in their careers. Many further training opportunities - even without an Abitur - can follow," said Mansoori. Dual training provides a solid foundation for further development.
The state government is making many efforts to strengthen and make dual training more attractive. An example is the internship weeks that will take place across Hesse in the regions for the first time this summer, said the minister. "Over 5,000 students have shown interest in this offer, and over 1,300 companies are participating, with around 6,500 internship days now arranged." The students will gain first insights into working life, and the companies will have direct contact with potential trainees.
Despite the efforts to fill vacancies, over 135,000 skilled workers with no academic background could contribute to the predicted shortage of 200,000 skilled workers in Hesse by 2028, highlighting the ongoing ['Shortage of skilled workers']. To mitigate this issue, it's crucial for both young individuals and businesses to seize opportunities for re-matching, as highlighted by Minister Mansoori.
