Junger Mann der eine Ausbildung zum Anlagemechaniker macht.

Overview of Apprenticeships

From A for Anlagenmechaniker to Z for Zweiradmechatroniker: within the IHK sector, there are around 250 state-recognised apprenticeship professions.

The German Chambers of Commerce and Industry (IHKs) identify changes required in companies' qualification needs and work for the modernisation of existing professions. They monitor vocational training, acquire training positions, advise businesses, and provide various other services related to professional education.

Training within the company is practical, varied, of high quality, and internationally recognised. It imparts knowledge of new techniques and offers a variety of independent work assignments. Furthermore, the training remuneration helps young people on their path to financial independence.

The special role of the German Chambers of Commerce and Industry

The monitoring of vocational training is one of the statutory tasks of the IHKs, according to the Vocational Training Act. Section 76 of the Vocational Training Act mandates that IHKs appoint advisors to promote and supervise vocational training in companies through counselling. Section 32 of the Vocational Training Act assigns IHKs the responsibility to determine whether a company is suitable for vocational training.

Beyond their statutory mandate, the IHKs additionally acquire new training positions among their member companies. In cases where a company dissolves, for example due to insolvency, the IHKs assist in placing apprentices into new positions. To better balance supply and demand for training positions in the region, the IHKs actively involve themselves in apprenticeship placement through suitable initiatives.

Training advisors as important local contacts

During training, the advisors act as the first point of contact for entrepreneurs, apprentices, their legal guardians, vocational school teachers, works councils, and youth representatives, answering questions regarding vocational training. They provide information on rights and obligations from the training contract, help with difficulties, clarify further education options, and much more.

Wide range of options

Ausbilder mit vier Azubis im Betrieb

The Best of Both Worlds: Vocational Training in the Dual System

691,125 young people in Germany were enrolled in vocational training programs in 2024 to learn an IHK profession. The knowledge and skills required for this are imparted through the dual training system. Learn how it works here.

Vier junge Männer sitzen und stehen in einer Werkhalle an Geräten, einer erklärt Dinge

Dual study programs: Ensuring quality while preserving operational flexibility

Dual study programs, combining university education with vocational training or practical phases, are an attractive means of securing skilled personnel for companies.

Grüne Aus- und Weiterbildung

Green Occupations? Sustainability in focus across 250 German Chamber of Commerce and Industry training professions

Even in vocational education, the topic of sustainability is gaining increasing importance. Many standards for climate and environmental protection have already been established in various training professions and advanced training qualifications. The focus on "green" in education and training...

Junger Mann zieht Rollcontainer durch Drogeriemarkt-Gang.

Training professions in wholesale and retail trade

With more than five million employees, trade is one of the most significant employers and trainers in Germany. Over ten percent of all workers are employed in trade, and around 75,000 trainees embark on their careers annually in this industry, which offers a wide range of tasks and career...

Wäscheleine mit drei Worten: Wir bilden aus

Tourism Apprenticeships

From chefs to hotel managers and event planners – the tourism industry offers diverse training paths with international perspectives.

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Contact

Assenmacher, Michael_quad

Michael Assenmacher

Head of Department for Advancement of Vocational Education

Grupe, Simon_quad

Simon Grupe

Head of Department Commercial Professions

Schroth-Geier, Kerstin_quad

Kerstin Schroth-Geier

Head of Department for Technical Professions

Schwarz, Anja_quad

Anja Schwarz

Head of Department for Research and Structural Issues, Metal and Electrical Professions