Almost half a million young people in Germany are entering a new chapter in their lives as they start their vocational training in 2026. While some have already started in August, many more will begin in September. This decision not only defines their individual futures but also impacts the economic prospects of Germany as a business location.

AI Does Not Replace Vocational Competence

Companies face profound transformation challenges: artificial intelligence (AI), digitalisation, climate protection, and demographic shifts are changing business models, production processes, and workflows. While AI and digitalisation open significant growth opportunities and ensure prosperity, competitiveness is often viewed only from this technological perspective. However, technology alone does not produce productivity; value creation occurs only through people who can apply technology effectively.

Moreover, the current debate on artificial intelligence often overlooks a critical point: even the most advanced technology cannot yet replace vocational competence. AI-powered robots, for example, cannot lay pipes for the cooling system of a chip factory, maintain technical systems, or prepare meals in a company canteen. In a world where knowledge is increasingly accessible, the practical application of this knowledge becomes ever more crucial. 

Promoting Competitiveness Means Supporting Vocational Education

Given demographic changes and the growing shortage of skilled workers, Germany cannot afford to leave potentials unused. Discussions around innovation and digitalisation must urgently be supplemented with a focus on competencies. As skills become a decisive competitive factor, vocational training and education must keep pace with the speed of technological change. This requires modern vocational schools, digital infrastructure, and the training of educators.

At the same time, training companies face numerous challenges. Notably, every second company perceives deficits in the work and social behaviours of their potential trainees. This increases the demands on those responsible for imparting vocational skills – the educators in vocational schools and in-company trainers. Their time and resources, however, are limited. They should be able to concentrate on developing vocational skills rather than compensating for basic knowledge or social skill deficits.

Potential trainees must therefore be better prepared for their professional entry during their school years. This includes systematic career orientation and regular practical phases, which must now become standard nationwide. Equally important is balanced counselling on both vocational and academic educational paths that highlight the attractive advancement and development opportunities of higher vocational education. Almost three million young adults in Germany do not have a recognised vocational qualification. To tap into this potential, simple, practical, and flexible qualification pathways are needed. 

Vocational Education Policy is Economic Policy

For German companies, the training of young people represents an investment in the future. Despite difficult economic conditions, they already assume significant responsibility today. 

What is needed now are framework conditions that effectively support the engagement of companies. Federal and state governments must act in concert, accelerate reforms, and regard vocational education as a strategic competitive factor. The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) has put forward specific proposals on how to secure skilled labour, facilitate transitions into training, make qualification pathways more flexible, and significantly relieve companies. To strengthen Germany's competitiveness, the skilled workers of today and tomorrow must also be strengthened.