Upgrading training – developments over time

In Germany, a recognised advanced vocational qualification is normally gained following initial vocational training and several years of experience in a recognised occupation. It paves the way for promotion to higher-grade positions, particularly for people without a higher education entrance qualification. Traditional upgrading positions of this kind seem to be declining in significance, however, in the face of changing structures within companies and increasing competition from employees with university degrees. Microcensus data and the BIBB/BAuA Employment Surveys are used to trace developments over the past thirty years.