The training to become a qualified nurse usually lasts three years and combines theoretical instruction (e.g. in anatomy, physiology, and nursing science) with practical placements in hospitals, nursing homes, or outpatient care services. During this period, trainees learn how to work with patients and acquire essential competences in care planning, documentation, and medication management. The demand for qualified nursing staff in Germany is high, which ensures good career prospects and opportunities for further development (e.g. in ward management or intensive care).

The dual training programme to become an automotive mechatronics technician generally lasts three and a half years and covers both the mechanical and electronic aspects of vehicle technology. Trainees learn to service engines and vehicle components, diagnose faults, and repair modern systems such as hybrid or electric drives. Germany is renowned worldwide for its automotive industry, which creates numerous career opportunities in workshops, with car manufacturers, or in motorsport.

In this profession, trainees focus on the installation and maintenance of heating, ventilation, and sanitary systems. Over the course of the three-and-a-half-year training programme, they learn how to plan, assemble, and commission such systems as well as how to advise customers. With the growing emphasis on energy efficiency and renewable energies, plant mechanics are in high demand in construction companies and skilled trade businesses.

Electronics technicians for energy and building services engineering specialise in installing and maintaining electrical systems within buildings. During the three-and-a-half-year training programme, they learn to design circuits, lay wiring, and integrate complex systems such as smart home technologies. As digitalisation and modernisation in the building sector continue to advance, a wide range of employment and career development opportunities are opening up.

The training to become a chef generally lasts three years and prepares trainees for all aspects of kitchen practice: from knowledge of food products and hygiene regulations to creative preparation techniques. During the practical training in restaurants, hotels, or canteens, they gain experience in menu composition and refine their skills across different kitchen areas. Upon completion, a wide range of career opportunities is available – whether in fine dining, large-scale catering, or even internationally.

During their three-year training programme, hotel management specialists gain experience in all areas of a hotel: from reception and housekeeping to the restaurant as well as banquet and event management. They require both organisational and communication skills in order to provide professional guest services and to ensure smooth operations. Owing to the wide variety of hotels in Germany and worldwide, attractive career opportunities exist, for example as department managers or in international hotel management.

The three-year training programme for restaurant specialists focuses on service, guest relations, and the coordination of food and beverages. In addition to professional serving and table decoration, advisory skills and a confident manner are essential. With Germany’s diverse gastronomy scene and its attraction for tourists from around the world, numerous opportunities for advancement arise, whether in fine-dining establishments, event venues, or on cruise ships.

The training to become a retail salesperson generally lasts two years but can be extended by an additional year to qualify as a retail management assistant. In addition to working with checkout systems and product presentation, trainees also gain skills in customer service, marketing activities, and fundamental business management. Those who enjoy working with people and possess strong communication skills have excellent prospects for a varied career across different sectors of the retail industry.