Dual vocational training: the cornerstone of Brandenburg’s economy

Despite economic challenges: Brandenburg’s businesses continue to invest in the next generation of skilled workers – Chambers report positive results at the start of the training year

With 5,395 apprenticeship contracts signed (as at 31 August) and registered with the Chambers of Industry and Commerce in Cottbus, East Brandenburg and Potsdam for the 2026/2027 apprenticeship year, there is evidence of a stable level of apprenticeships and a consistently high willingness on the part of companies to take on apprentices.
 

“Dual vocational training remains the cornerstone of economic development in these regions. Although many sectors are facing major economic challenges, training standards remain high. This demonstrates a strong commitment to Brandenburg as a business location and to our responsibility towards the younger generation,” explains Ina Hänsel, President of the Potsdam Chamber of Industry and Commerce, speaking on behalf of the State Working Group of the Chambers of Industry and Commerce in Brandenburg.

Artificial intelligence as an opportunity

The Chambers promote the integration of vocational and academic education. Ina Hänsel adds: “Young people do not need to be told that only one particular educational path is the right one. The positive apprenticeship figures show that dual vocational training in Brandenburg is a model of success. The task now is to carry this success into the future. Artificial intelligence and digitalisation are not a threat here, but a great opportunity: they can ease the burden on teachers, strengthen individualised learning and improve the link between companies and vocational schools. If we invest now in modern learning environments, digital infrastructure and the skills of our teachers, we will make dual vocational training even more attractive and make Brandenburg an even stronger base for the skilled workers of tomorrow.”

Politicians must improve the framework conditions

The Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHKs) are also calling for high-performing vocational school sites, better transport links for apprentices – such as more frequent services and the expansion of public transport – less red tape, and greater support for businesses in recruiting and integrating young talent.

As at 31 August 2026:

Cottbus Chamber of Industry and Commerce district: A total of 1,518 new vocational training contracts were registered; with only four fewer contracts – representing a 0.3 per cent decrease in the number of registered apprenticeships – companies’ willingness to provide training in the South Brandenburg region has remained stable compared with the previous year. Increases were recorded in the construction, metalworking and retail sectors, whilst the number of apprenticeship contracts in the electrical engineering sector in particular saw a decline. Most trainees from abroad come from Vietnam and Ukraine.

IHK East Brandenburg district: 1,321 newly concluded vocational training contracts. This represents an increase of 2.2 per cent on the previous year. Most vocational training contracts were concluded in the commercial sector (sales assistants, retail salespeople and office administration staff). Industrial mechanics and cooks followed in fourth and fifth place. Most foreign apprentices come from Vietnam (68).

IHK Potsdam District: In Potsdam, 2,556 new vocational training contracts were signed, representing an increase of 2.5 per cent compared with the previous year. Most of the contracts concluded were in the retail sector. Vietnam is the country from which most foreign apprentices come.