This was the result of a survey of the 350 members of the VDMA Regional Association East in Berlin, Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia. The training rate in the eastern German mechanical engineering sector is just under six percent. This means that the proportion of trainees in relation to the number of employees is above the average for the manufacturing industry.

However, the search for talented young people is becoming increasingly difficult. Since 2015, the number of companies that have had problems filling commercial training positions has risen by twelve percent to 62 percent. "In-company training is an important pillar for meeting the increasing demand for skilled workers and ultimately securing the location. We are therefore very concerned about this development," says Reinhard Pätz, Managing Director of VDMA East.

Deficits in basic knowledge
In the survey, 60.5 percent of the companies concerned criticized the fact that young people are not sufficiently prepared for the demands of working life. Above all, they lacked applicable basic knowledge, especially in mathematics and natural sciences such as physics. They also registered deficits in German, foreign languages and motor skills. "This makes it clear that politicians must finally make targeted investments in school education. It is important to strengthen general technical education, teach subjects such as mathematics in a practical way and adapt teaching content to changing professional requirements. At the same time, teachers must undergo consistent further training. One possibility would be company internships," demands the Managing Director.

Numerous companies also criticized a lack of motivation and insufficient social skills such as the ability to communicate and concentrate, punctuality and willingness to learn.

Apprenticeships too little known
89.5 percent of companies attributed their problems to the declining number of applicants. They attributed this mainly to increasing academization. Accordingly, young people are increasingly preferring to study rather than undergo vocational training. Demographic developments and the geographical location are also causing problems for many companies. In addition, the companies believe that too few pupils, teachers and parents are aware of the numerous industrial professions.

Together with its members, VDMA Ost regularly offers training events for teachers, career and study advisors. The VDMA and VDW Young Talent Foundation for Mechanical Engineering has also developed into a strategic partner for vocational training.

Almost all companies now offer internships. The majority work together with schools and vocational colleges, present themselves at training fairs or open days and support regional associations, events and social institutions. It is striking that more and more companies are using social media channels to address young people.

Hardly any applications from refugees
Training refugees could help to alleviate the shortage of skilled workers. Refugees are currently learning a trade at almost one in five mechanical engineering companies in eastern Germany. "This is a slight increase compared to the previous year. The fact that even more companies are not training is often due to a lack of interested parties," explains Pätz. A lack of language skills and unclear prospects of staying are also decisive obstacles. as