Overview

• As of March 2025, Germany faces 387,000 unfilled skilled labor positions, a 17.5% reduction compared to the previous year.
• Severe shortages persist in HVAC trades (12,000 roles), roofing (3,000 roles), and civil engineering (over 4,300 roles).
• Labor gaps jeopardize the execution of climate-friendly initiatives, including heating system upgrades and photovoltaic installations.
• Critical infrastructure and defense-related projects, such as tunnel construction and modern utility systems, are at risk due to workforce deficits.
• Experts emphasize that announced financial packages for infrastructure and defense projects require skilled workers to ensure implementation.