Deutsche Windtechnik has reported a 100% retention rate for its latest cohort of mechatronics apprentices, signaling a positive trend in addressing the wind energy sector’s ongoing skills shortage. All eleven graduates from the company’s Viöl training center in Schleswig-Holstein have accepted full-time positions, transitioning to roles as qualified service technicians for both onshore and offshore wind projects.
This development is particularly noteworthy given the industry-wide challenge of attracting and retaining skilled technicians. With ambitious expansion targets for wind energy capacity across Europe, including significant growth planned for the Baltic Sea region, the demand for qualified personnel continues to intensify.
Alena Schäfer, Training Coordinator at Deutsche Windtechnik, highlighted the strategic importance of their apprenticeship program: “Our apprentices are the skilled workers of tomorrow. Their unanimous decision to continue with us post-training reflects positively on both our work environment and the perceived stability of the wind energy sector.”
The company’s current apprenticeship program boasts 124 trainees across various specialisations, with 53 focusing on mechatronics. Plans are in place to onboard an additional 38 mechatronics apprentices in September at the Bremen and Viöl facilities, further bolstering the talent pipeline.
Of particular interest to industry observers is the company’s ability to fast-track high-performing apprentices. Four of the eleven recent graduates completed their training in just two years, rather than the standard 3.5 years, demonstrating the potential for accelerated skill development in motivated candidates.
