Make handmade items - Chimney sweepers seek out fresh apprentices.
The trade of chimney sweeps is battling recruitment challenges. As Udo Voigt, Director of Vocational Training at the German Association of Chimney Sweeps (ZIV), shared with the German Press Agency, "We can be content on a national level, but there are regional discrepancies where a lack of qualified workers can rapidly result in a shortage."
This shortage would also affect customers who need more information due to the heating laws. Voigt stated, "Safety and functionality are the top priorities. That's why consultation appointments would be the first to be cut."
struggle to fill apprenticeship positions
There are about 20,000 individuals working in the 7600 chimney sweep companies across the country, with 1835 apprentices. While the nationwide number has remained relatively stable over the years, there are challenges in filling apprenticeship vacancies, particularly in states like Thuringia and Saarland. According to Eric Scherer, the Saarland state guild master, there are only two apprentices this year, compared to the typical amount of 12. Scherer couldn't justify why they were "going against the national trend." To boost apprenticeships in this field, Saarland has plans to participate in the nationwide "Komm ins Team Schwarz" campaign.
Voigt, a member of ZIV's board, also emphasized the value of using customer connections for advertising: "Frankly, I think the direct approach is the best. Better than any TikTok presence." He believes that chimney sweeps build relationships with potential customers throughout their lives.
Voigt also encouraged everyone in the industry to stick together to change the public's perception of the profession. "We all need to work together to ensure that the transformation of the job description is noticed by the public," he added. Chimney sweeps used to only clean stoves but now also ensure the safety and energy efficiency of heat pumps.
Moreover, a profession-specific degree program is available in Baden-Württemberg: in Rottenburg, students can complete a Bachelor's in "Renewable energies with a chimney sweep profile" while also taking their journeyman's examination.
Read also:
Source: www.stern.de
