Skills shortage in plastics technology: a challenge with far-reaching consequences

The shortage of skilled labour in plastics technology has many causes. On the one hand, the number of qualified graduates and career starters in technical professions has been declining for years. This is often the result of a lack of awareness of technical professions among young people and an exodus to other sectors that are perceived as more attractive or modern. At the same time, many experienced specialists are retiring without there being enough new recruits to fill the gap.

Small and medium-sized companies in particular are feeling the effects of this, as they often have fewer resources to recruit and retain talented employees.

The shortage of skilled labour has far-reaching consequences for companies in the sector. Production processes are delayed, innovations stall and competitiveness suffers. This is particularly problematic at a time when the industry needs to be more innovative than ever due to the increasing focus on sustainability and the circular economy. Efficient and future-orientated plastics processing requires highly qualified specialists, master craftsmen, technicians and engineers who have mastered complex production processes and new technologies.

The quality of the products can also suffer from a shortage of skilled labour. Insufficiently trained staff can make mistakes more quickly, which not only causes costs in the form of rejects and rework, but can also damage a company's image. Another problem is the increasing competition for the few available skilled workers. Companies have to offer higher salaries and better working conditions, which further increases the cost pressure on companies. In addition, lengthy and expensive recruitment processes are no longer a rarity, as well-trained specialists are rarely directly available.

Comprehensive measures are needed to meet these challenges. Companies should focus more on training and promoting young talent. Dual study programmes, training partnerships and close cooperation with universities are of great importance here. Further training for existing employees is also an important component in actively shaping technological progress and retaining expertise within the company.

In addition, increased efforts in the area of employer branding could help to make the profession of plastics technician more attractive. Young people in particular attach great importance to meaningfulness and sustainability in their professional lives. Here, the plastics industry - with its increased focus on the circular economy and environmentally friendly materials - certainly has the potential to position itself as a sustainable employer.