MINT camp in Dresden: inspire young talent for the future!

MINT camp in Dresden: inspire young talent for the future!

From September 22nd to 25th, 2025 took place at the TU Dresden the MINT-EC camp took place with the motto “Materials in the cycle: economically and ecologically sustainable”. 20 talented students from all over Germany came together to intensively engage with the topic of materials science. This event was organized by the Institute of Materials Science of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and the university's school contact point, in cooperation with the school network MINT-EC. The aim of the camp was to promote STEM education and generate enthusiasm for scientific subjects.

There is an alarming background behind the camp: the growing shortage of skilled workers in the MINT sector in Germany. According to the MINT report prepared by the Cologne Institute for the German Economy, 163,600 MINT jobs are currently unfilled, which threatens the country's future innovative strength and competitiveness. Of these, 89,600 jobs fall into the category of MINT skilled worker occupations, the largest bottleneck group, followed by 56,600 MINT expert occupations (academics) and 17,400 specialist and master/technician occupations.

Practical insights into materials science

Camp participants had the opportunity to gain practical experience in various workshops. These included topics such as biomimetic surfaces, resource-saving 3D printing, material characterization and component testing with high-speed cameras. A particularly challenging project was the construction of a gas sensor using carbon nanotubes. By working in small groups and using highly specialized equipment, such as a scanning electron microscope, the young people were able to practically check and deepen their results.

A highlight of the camp was an excursion to BOSCH Dresden, where students got an inside look at the 300mm semiconductor manufacturing line. These practical experiences are of great importance for the young people in order to recognize the relevance of the theoretical content and to establish a connection to the industry.

Challenges in the MINT area

The STEM skills shortage is exacerbated by several factors. Demographic change and falling numbers of graduates are contributing to the situation. At the same time, MINT specialists are crucial for implementing the federal government's ambitious goals in the areas of digitalization, climate protection and defense. In order to achieve the research goals, which comprise 3.5% of expenditure, additional specialists are urgently needed. It is estimated that 50,000 new MINT specialists are needed, and an additional 30,000 to 50,000 are needed for the defense sector alone.

In order to improve the situation, according to the Requirements of the coalition agreement Measures to strengthen STEM education are essential. This includes improving opportunities in the education system, promoting digital MINT education and ensuring the quality of teaching through well-trained teachers. In particular, the promotion of women and the activation of older MINT workers as well as the development of the potential of immigration were considered necessary in order to close the skills gap.

The TU Dresden shows social responsibility with an offer that goes beyond the camp. It offers year-round formats for students, teachers and prospective students, including school newsletters and programs for in-depth STEM education. These initiatives are intended to help raise awareness and motivate the next generation about the challenges in the STEM sector.