Decline in Number of Novice Apprentices in Metal and Electrical Sectors - Reduced intake of apprentices in the metal and electrical sector
In a recent survey conducted among 186 companies with approximately 312,000 employees in Munich, Bavaria, a concerning decline in training places has been reported within the metal and electrical industries. The survey, carried out twice a year by the Bavarian metal and electrical employers' associations bayme and vbm, indicates that nearly half (48%) of the companies surveyed have reported a decrease in concluded training contracts compared to 2024.
Bertram Brossardt, the chief executive of bayme and vbm, expressed his concerns about this trend, suggesting that it could be indicative of companies aiming for relocations abroad. He further emphasised that despite the decline, the prospects for apprentices remain good, with 1.5 open positions for each application.
The reasons behind this decline are multifaceted. According to the survey, the economic situation was cited as the main reason (32%) for the decrease in training places, while 58% of the companies that reported a decrease attributed it to the lack of suitable apprentices. Additionally, structural changes like automation and digitalization, demographic shifts, and industry-specific challenges could also be contributing factors.
Marco Reinders, the district youth secretary of the Bavarian Metal Union, expressed his concerns about companies withdrawing from their responsibility for the location and the future of the young generation. He urged for continued action from the government and educational institutions to promote dual training models, update curricula for emerging technologies, and improve incentives to attract trainees.
Despite these challenges, the sector shows ongoing efforts to evolve. Recent news highlights graduates in electrical engineering and electric mobility programs in Bavaria and initiatives in electrical safety training. The outlook for 2026 would depend on how industry stakeholders, government, and educational institutions adapt to these changes.
By the end of 2026, the employers' associations in Bavaria's metal and electrical industry expect a decrease of up to 5% in the number of concluded training contracts. However, in 2025, apprentices have been taken on in 91% of cases so far, and a take-on rate of 96% is expected for the coming year. Despite the decrease in training contracts, the industry remains committed to providing opportunities for the next generation of workers.
For a more precise analysis of Bavaria’s electrical and metal industry's training contract trends, including causes, impacts, and 2026 projections, specialized regional industry reports or government labor statistics would be required.
- The community policy should address the issue of declining vocational training opportunities in the manufacturing industry, especially in the metal and electrical sectors, by providing support for companies to maintain their training programs.
- The finance and business sectors could play a significant role in the electrical and metal industry by investing in vocational training programs, thus helping to bridge the gap between the number of open positions and the lack of suitable apprentices.
- In the context of self-development and education-and-self-development, it is crucial to update curricula to align with emerging technologies and industries, such as electric mobility and electrical engineering, to better prepare the next generation of workers for the digitalized and automated industries.
