Vocational Training in the Handicrafts Sector (Handwerk): Golden Opportunities in a Time of Major Skills Shortage
In light of demographic changes and the retirement of thousands of craftspeople, Germany’s handicrafts sector is seeing growing demand for young skilled workers. Ausbildung im Handwerk is a valuable opportunity not only to build a stable career future, but also to eventually own a business.
What is “Handwerk”?
It includes dozens of traditional and technical manual professions, such as:
| Field | Examples of professions |
|---|---|
| Construction | Carpenter (Zimmerer), Mason (Maurer) |
| Electrical and energy | Electrician (Elektroniker), Solar technician |
| Heating and plumbing | Plant mechanic (Anlagenmechaniker), Installer/Plumber (Installateur) |
| Precision crafts | Goldsmith (Goldschmied), Watchmaker (Uhrmacher) |
| Food crafts | Baker (Bäcker), Butcher (Fleischer) |
| Beauty and care | Hairdresser (Friseur), Beautician (Kosmetiker/in) |
| Automotive | Car mechatronics technician (Kfz-Mechatroniker) |
Why are there golden opportunities now?
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Retirement wave | More than 250,000 craftspeople will retire in the next 5 years |
| Fewer applicants | Many young people prefer university studies, creating a major gap |
| Opportunities for migrants and foreigners | The sector is widely open to those willing to work hands-on |
| Future self-employment | You can open your own workshop after gaining experience and obtaining the Meister title |
| Strong government support | Funding programs, tax relief, grants for equipment and training |
Salaries during and after training:
| Stage | Approx. gross monthly salary |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | 800 – 1,000 € |
| Year 2 | 900 – 1,100 € |
| Year 3 | 1,000 – 1,200 € |
| After graduation | 2,300 – 3,200 € (increases with experience and specialization) |
| After Meister | 3,500 € or more + possibility to start your own workshop |
Salaries vary by trade, federal state, and training company.
Admission requirements:
| Requirement | Explanation |
|---|---|
| School qualification | Abitur is not required – often a Hauptschulabschluss is enough |
| German language | B1–B2 is considered suitable for communication and work |
| Physical fitness and skills | Important in physical trades like construction and electrical work |
| Motivation and commitment | A key factor for acceptance and completion |
Where to find a Handwerk-Ausbildung opportunity:
handwerkskammer.de
Lehrstellenradar portal
arbeitsagentur.de
Directly at workshops or at trade fairs (Handwerksmessen)
Local craft businesses in your area (walk in and ask in person)
Can you develop after graduation?
Absolutely! The career path in Handwerk is rich in opportunities:
| Development | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Weiterbildung | Specialized courses in your trade |
| Meister title | “Workshop leader” certificate – allows you to train others or open a workshop |
| Self-employment | Start a workshop or a private business |
| Later studies | e.g., energy engineering or industrial technology |
Conclusion:
Vocational training in Germany’s handicrafts sector today is not just physical work, but a golden opportunity to build a successful and stable future, even without a university degree. The sector suffers from major shortages and offers excellent opportunities for both Germans and migrants.
ـ* The writers and editors team at the website strives to provide accurate information through extensive research and consulting multiple sources when writing articles. However, some errors may appear or unconfirmed information may be included. Therefore, please consider the information in the articles as an initial reference and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed information.
