"Future training" training forum of the IHK Siegen

Almost 200 guests discussed the future of vocational training at the Siegen Chamber of Industry and Commerce's training forum on November 5 in the Siegerlandhalle. The focus was on the lecture by Prof. Dr. Ekkehard Köhler, who presented the results of a nationwide field experiment. More than 50,000 fictitious initial contacts with training companies were initiated - with very different results: The response to inquiries varied greatly depending on the applicant's name and presumed origin. "Our study shows that origin often counts more than performance when making initial contact," explained Prof. Köhler. "It is important to be aware of your own blind spots and not to make hasty decisions based on previous experience. Professional, non-discriminatory selection procedures can help here." Another focal point was the IHK Siegen's training survey. IHK Managing Director Sabine Bechheim presented the results: More than 800 trainees from the region rated their training predominantly positively. The good relationships with trainers and colleagues are particularly appreciated. "The training impresses with its proximity and personal support. This offers the opportunity to support and strengthen young people in their professional orientation," emphasized Bechheim. At the same time, the statistics show a worrying trend: the number of newly registered training contracts has fallen by more than 10?% compared to the previous year. The region is therefore facing major challenges in securing skilled workers. IHK President Walter Viegener therefore emphasized the importance of dual training: "In our region, you make a career with an apprenticeship - and not necessarily with a degree. Only 3?% of the training companies surveyed see studying as a prerequisite for career advancement, 97?% rely on skilled workers with training, perhaps supplemented by an advanced training examination. This shows that We need a new understanding of career guidance." Practical solutions were discussed in five workshops - from successful onboarding of international trainees to legal principles in the event of conflicts and the future of dual training. The workshop on the new generation of trainees, which showed ways in which companies can build bridges to young people and provide them with motivating support, was particularly popular.