A warm welcome to our new trainees
On 1 September 2025 we celebrated the traditional start of vocational training season. While the Bundesinstitut für Berufsbildung (BIBB) reports that around 476,000 new dual vocational training contracts were concluded across Germany (a decrease of 2.1% compared with 2024), we are proud to welcome 26 new trainees into our team. This small but motivated cohort reflects the continued attractiveness of apprenticeships and dual vocational training even in a challenging economic environment.
- 23 trainees: aspiring clerks in office management (Kaufleute für Büromanagement)
- 2 trainees: aspiring IT specialists (Fachinformatiker)
- 1 trainee: media and information services assistant (Fachangestellte für Medien- und Informationsdienste)
National trends and statistics
The national picture shows both resilience and pressure in vocational education. The total number of people in training fell to about 1.1 million in 2024, influenced by demographic changes and a rising tendency to pursue university studies. The Mittelstand (small and medium-sized enterprises) continues to provide over 90% of apprenticeship positions and remains the backbone of the system.
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| New dual training contracts (2025) | ~476,000 (−2.1% vs 2024) |
| Total trainees (2024) | ~1.1 million |
| Our new trainees | 26 (23 office management, 2 IT, 1 media/information) |
| Open positions (average 2025) | ~75,000 |
| Unfilled training places (2023) | >73,000 |
| Context year | 2025 |
Training contracts, vacancies and unfilled places
At the same time, the labour market shows mixed signals: the Federal Employment Agency reported an average of 75,000 open positions in 2025, mainly for qualified workers, while unfilled apprenticeship positions were rising (more than 73,000 in 2023). This gap highlights mismatches between supply and demand for vocational skills.
Demand pressure and the DIHK warning
The DIHK Fachkräftereport 2025/2026 warns of persistent skill shortages. In many cases companies search specifically for dual-trained professionals but cannot find them—this happens in roughly 57% of reported shortages—underscoring the continuing importance of apprenticeships for employers.
Job portals and concrete opportunities
Online job portals show many vacancy announcements for trainees, especially for office management roles in cities such as Berlin, Cologne, regions like Hesse, and Munich. Typical offers list dual training starting on dates such as 01.08.2025 or 01.09.2026, with apprenticeship pay in advertised ranges around €1,150 to €1,500 and realistic chances of later permanent employment.
Why this matters for trainees and employers
Vocational education and dual training are central to closing skill gaps and creating stable career pathways. Apprenticeships combine practical on-the-job learning with classroom instruction, producing professionals who are ready to contribute. For employers, hiring trainees is an investment in a skilled workforce; for trainees, it opens pathways to secure jobs and further development.
- For trainees: hands-on experience, a salary while learning, clear career steps, and a high chance of long-term employment.
- For employers: tailored training, lower recruitment risks, and a pipeline of dual-trained professionals to reduce skill shortages.
- For the economy: stronger vocational education helps meet demand for qualified workers and supports regional labour markets.
How we support our trainees
We offer structured onboarding, dedicated mentors, and a balanced combination of practical assignments and theoretical learning. Our goal is to create a friendly, clear, and supportive environment where trainees can grow their skills, gain confidence, and prepare for future roles—whether within our company or elsewhere in the sector.
What trainees can expect
- Welcome and orientation to the company and training plan.
- On-the-job training with experienced mentors.
- Regular feedback and structured assessments.
- Participation in practical projects that build real skills.
- Support for vocational school coursework and exams.
- Guidance on further training and career development opportunities.
Looking ahead: building a robust training future
We are optimistic about the future despite the challenges. Experts call for expanded continuing education to increase labour participation, especially for older workers and those without formal vocational qualifications. By investing in training, mentoring, and upskilling, companies and institutions can make the apprenticeship system more resilient and inclusive.
To our 26 new trainees: welcome again. Embrace this opportunity to learn, ask questions, and grow. Together we will contribute to a strong vocational training culture and help shape a skilled workforce for the years ahead.
