Desperately Seeking Skilled Workers

Some 50,000 engineering jobs are up for grabs, but only 40,000 engineering graduates are looking for work. According to the Association of German Engineeers, the situation is set to get even worse: the demand for skilled workers is growing, while the number of engineering students is declining. High-tech companies are particularly hard-hit by the shortfall such as Wittenstein in Igersheim. The company, which produces standard motors and gearheads for applications in industrial, aerospace, simulation and medical markets, is desperately seeking 25 engineers and technicians and it knows it has to make potential employees offers they cannot refuse if it wants to avoid remaining understaffed. Wittenstein is now cooperating with a technical college in Bad Mergesheim, offering 15 students a traineeship for three years, with a promise of emplyoment once they finish. The company is also holding on to senior members of staff as long as possible.

DW-World | December 4, 2007

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