For some, it sounds like a great opportunity; for others, like a threat: lifelong learning. This concept has become increasingly popular in recent years. It means that learning doesn’t stop after school, vocational training or university. Employees are expected to continuously acquire new knowledge and skills throughout their working lives. The good news is that it’s much less effort than it sounds.
Occupations are changing more rapidly than before. Sustainability and artificial intelligence are two topics that have recently had a significant impact on industry, according to Lisa Esche. She is responsible for continuing education at the German Federation of Chemical Employers’ Associations (BAVC). ‘It’s important for employees to stay up to date,’ she says. In other words, anyone who relies solely on what they learnt in the past is putting their job at risk.
However, this doesn't mean attending week-long seminars or doing homework outside working hours. ‘Continuing education can be something very small,’ says Esche. It could be as simple as asking a colleague for tips on using Excel, or typing a question about operating a pump into a chatbot.
Training on the job: One of the simplest and most effective ways to learn is through everyday work, such as exchanging knowledge with colleagues. This includes introductions to new machinery or software, as well as tandem formats, where a new starter and an experienced employee work together and support each other. Video tutorials can also be useful for learning new work steps.
In-house training: Many companies organise their own workshops, seminars or presentations, either in person or digitally. One advantage of e-learning is that digital training programmes can be accessed flexibly at any time during the working day.
External courses: When specific knowledge is needed, external training providers may be the right choice, whether the course lasts a few hours or several weeks. Contact points include Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHKs), technical colleges and similar institutions. Participants often receive a certificate at the end of the course.
Advanced training with formal qualifications: Those looking to advance their careers and improve their salary prospects can pursue further qualifications after completing vocational training, such as becoming a Meister (master craftsperson), Techniker (certified technician) or Fachwirt (certified business administrator). Another option is bachelor's and master's degree programmes, which are also available on a part-time basis and, in some cases, even without a traditional university entrance qualification (see page 26 for more information).
Self-directed learning: This category includes anything that employees do on their own initiative and outside of a formal framework in order to gain new skills, such as listening to podcasts, doing online research, reading technical literature, or visiting trade fairs.
Employees shouldn't be worried about continuing education being part of their working life. ‘What matters most is staying open to new developments,’ says BAVC advisor Esche. It also helps to remember that you have already adapted to past changes.
Those who are just starting out in the industry are well prepared for future challenges. ‘Digitalisation, continuous learning and adaptability now play a central role in vocational training,’ Esche explains. Training regulations are regularly updated. Esche sees a need for improvement in education policy: ‘Digital infrastructure must be improved at all levels, especially in vocational schools. Small companies in particular depend on vocational schools to provide up-to-date knowledge.’
These updates also benefit employees who completed their training some time ago, as there are often opportunities to catch up on new content, for example through short courses. ‘Larger companies are often leading the way here. Some even invite smaller businesses in the region to participate,’ says Esche.
The BAVC advisor also encourages employees to ask their supervisors for advice regarding continuing education. ‘Companies are generally grateful when employees take the initiative and are happy to provide support.’ Works councils are another good point of contact. ‘They’re very well informed and can provide guidance to employees,’ says Esche. ‘You don't have to worry about being left on your own.’
