BIBB report identifies four segments in German vocational training

A new report from the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) has identified four distinct segments within vocational education in Germany. By analyzing 338 dual and school-based vocational training occupations, the study highlights significant differences in training realities, including how closely companies bind trainees, access levels, and the stability of training relationships.

The classification is based on a systematic comparison of skill profiles, considering how job-specific skills are taught, the adaptability of content to company requirements, and the cognitive demand level of each profession. The four segments include:

- Two segments with highly job-specific skills and varying cognitive requirements. - One segment characterized by strong company-specific training. - One segment focused on general skills with high cognitive requirements.

The report notes that companies in segments with high cognitive demands tend to follow an investment-oriented strategy and seek longer-term ties with trainees. These segments also tend to have higher social prestige. However, compensation varies significantly; while the job-specific segment with high cognitive demands offers high average pay, the segment focused on general skills with high cognitive demands shows particularly low compensation. Additionally, gender composition varies across the segments, with many occupations being significantly dominated by either men or women.