1. A surprising career change: an architect becomes a Kfz‑Mechatroniker
Gregor Kunkel, an architect from Neu‑Isenburg, decided at 47 to begin an apprenticeship as a Kfz‑Mechatroniker in 2026. After a long career in architecture and construction, he wanted a practical, hands‑on job and new technical challenges. His story shows that a midlife career change into vocational training and a trade job is possible and increasingly common.
Motivation and personal reasons
Gregor cited a desire for tangible, manual work, and an interest in vehicle technology and diagnostics. Many older career changers report similar motivations: more direct results from daily work, variety in tasks, and the satisfaction of fixing technical problems. These motivations often outweigh concerns about starting an apprenticeship later in life.
2. The bigger picture: trends in apprenticeships and career transitions
Across Germany there is a noticeable increase in older Quereinsteiger (career changers) entering handcraft and technical apprenticeships. Handwerkskammern and local training initiatives have developed programs and support measures to encourage applicants of all ages, recognizing the value of diverse experience in craft trades like automotive mechatronics.
Key statistics and training availability
Available training places vary by region. In 2026 only a small number of free places were reported for some cities—for example, 19 open apprenticeship slots in Cologne—yet nationally there are many options, with well over 10,000 apprenticeship positions available across a range of trades, including Kfz‑Mechatroniker. Reports also note a rise in completed training contracts for 2025/2026, with 429 documented completions, suggesting growing activity in vocational training.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Example individual | Gregor Kunkel, architect, started apprenticeship at age 47 (2026) |
| Local openings (example) | 19 free apprenticeship places in Cologne (2026) |
| Total apprenticeship positions (nationwide) | Over 10,000 positions including Kfz‑Mechatroniker |
| Recorded completions | 429 completions reported for 2025/2026 |
| Local flyers and listings | Openings listed for locations such as Dillingen starting February 2026 |
| Notes: figures reflect reported availability and trends for 2025–2026 and regional variation applies. | |
3. Practical steps for older applicants considering an apprenticeship
Changing careers later in life into a craft like automotive mechatronics is realistic with the right planning. There are practical steps and supports—such as vocational counseling, funding programs, and flexible training models—often offered through local chambers of skilled crafts (Handwerkskammern).
- Research available apprenticeship positions for Kfz‑Mechatroniker and related roles in your region.
- Contact the local Handwerkskammer or vocational counseling service to learn about application deadlines, registration, and exam schedules (note registrations and exams may have specific deadlines around February 2026 in some regions).
- Prepare an application that highlights transferable skills from previous careers (problem solving, project management, technical drawing, etc.).
- Explore funding and support options, including scholarships, grants, or part‑time training models to balance income and learning.
- Arrange practical experience where possible—short internships or trial days help both you and employers assess fit.
- Commit to continuous learning: modern vehicle technology requires ongoing training in diagnostics, electronics, and software.
- Emphasize maturity, reliability, and any technical or manual skills from your prior career.
- Be open and honest about why you want the change—motivation matters to employers.
- Network with local workshops and training centers; many businesses welcome experienced Quereinsteiger.
- Expect a learning curve but also strong on‑the‑job mentorship in many ateliers and garages.
- Check regional lists of open positions (for example local flyers often list vacancies starting from specific months such as February 2026).
4. Employers’ perspective and concluding thoughts
Employers increasingly value experienced career changers. Many workshops actively seek candidates who bring life experience, reliability, and a clear commitment to learning. Local chambers emphasize recruitment and continuing education for all ages, and several reports note that many businesses welcome Quereinsteiger for craft and technical roles. For those considering a transition like Gregor’s, the combination of personal motivation, available training places, and supportive programs makes a late apprenticeship an achievable and rewarding option.
