Studies suggest that by 2030, Germany could potentially confront a shortage of 3 million qualified workers. This looming crisis is attributed to factors such as an aging population and declining birth rates. A shortage of skilled workers is already a problem for some businesses and areas, with southern and eastern Germany being especially badly affected.
The shortage is most severe in fields related to STEM
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Healthcare
Studies predict that out of 801 occupations, 352 will face a shortage of skilled professionals. Sectors such as engineering, healthcare, and information technology will be significantly impacted, leading to a shortage of individuals with occupational qualifications.
Germany’s Top Sectors Affected by Skill Shortages in 2023
Below are the five primary sectors anticipated to encounter a shortage of skilled workers in Germany in 2023:
1. Medical and Healthcare Professionals
Germany is going to experience a shortage of medical personnel in the coming years. International medical degree holders, both from EU and non-EU countries, have the opportunity to obtain a license to practice medicine in Germany. However, their degrees must meet the criteria set by local authorities in Germany.
2. Engineering Professionals
A shortage of skilled workers is predicted to affect many engineering professions.
These include:
- Structural Engineering
- Computer Science Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Automotive Engineering
- Telecommunications Individuals with university degrees in these engineering disciplines will have numerous job opportunities.
3. MINT (Mathematics, Information Technology, Natural Sciences, and Technology)
Job prospects are abundant for graduates with degrees in mathematics, information technology, natural sciences, and technology (MINT).
For instance, the field of information technology witnessed 124,000 job openings, more than doubling over the past two years. This trend is expected to persist in the future.
4. Non-Specialized Areas
Germany is going to have a shortage of workers in fields where specialized degrees are not needed. There will be a shortage in occupations including industrial mechanics, healthcare, and retail sales.
- There will be a significant demand for industrial mechanics specialists in machine engineering, operational technology and industrial mechanics.
- Retail Salespersons trained in retail sales and customer service will be sought after.
5. Nurses and Healthcare Professionals
There will be a great demand for professionals with the necessary training in obstetrics, emergency medical services, elderly care, and healthcare. According to the German Association of Cities, clinics, assisted living homes, and childcare centres have a significant need for teachers and nurses. Experts in science, engineering, business, healthcare, and education are expected to be in great demand, according to CEDEFOP research.
Conclusion
Germany faces a significant skills deficit in various sectors, and these shortages are expected to persist in the years to come. The demand for professionals in STEM fields and healthcare is particularly pronounced, presenting opportunities for skilled individuals and highlighting the importance of addressing these shortages for the country’s future workforce.