SmartMess launched: Chemnitz University of Technology is fighting the shortage of skilled workers!

SmartMess launched: Chemnitz University of Technology is fighting the shortage of skilled workers!

With the “SmartMess” project, Chemnitz University of Technology has launched an innovative concept to improve training and further education in production measurement technology. As on the university website reported, the main goal of the project is to create a modern smart learning environment. This is intended to address the high demand for specialists and managers in key industries such as mechanical and plant engineering, precision manufacturing and the automotive supplier industry.

From 2026 onwards, extensive innovations can be expected in the final examinations for metalworking professions, with reading and interpreting technical drawings in particular becoming more important. The “SmartMess” project aims to establish a virtual learning environment by the end of 2027 that combines modern knowledge and didactic expertise. The planned digital technologies include learning nuggets, chatbots, gamification and immersive learning methods.

Innovations in training

The learning platform is primarily aimed at trainees and aims to increase learning success while at the same time offering teachers more flexibility. The knowledge from over 60 years of production measurement technology training at Chemnitz University of Technology is used. Skills needs were also determined in workshops in collaboration with company representatives. The project receives financial support from the European Union and tax funds from the Saxon State Parliament.

Fraunhofer's initiative takes a further step before to provide all employees in the production area with a “companion” who supports them in everyday production. This device, in the form of a tablet with a specially developed app, recognizes the user's level of knowledge and the respective situation. In this way, relevant content can be provided that is tailored to the current operating status of the systems and special incidents.

The challenges of the shortage of skilled workers

The mechanical engineering industry is also faced with an acute shortage of skilled workers. Like the Digital Institute represents, this shortage has posed a serious threat to the industry's competitiveness for years. As a key industry, mechanical engineering is of utmost importance for Germany's economic strength.

In order to meet the challenges of the shortage of skilled workers, comprehensive measures are necessary. This includes increased training of fully qualified specialists as well as targeted investments in the further training of existing employees. It is already visible that companies are having to reject or postpone orders due to the shortage of skilled workers, which can lead to a loss of sales.

Innovative recruiting strategies and an attractive employer brand are of great importance. The commitment required for this ranges from flexible working models to positive corporate cultures that offer professional development opportunities. Forecasts show that the shortage of skilled workers in mechanical engineering will continue, which is why the promotion of MINT subjects in schools and the introduction of dual training models are considered essential. In addition, further training measures for existing specialists should be increased in order to ensure the necessary IT knowledge in the digital age.

Finally, it should be noted that digitalization not only brings with it opportunities, but also challenges. The design of a sustainable educational landscape and the development of attractive training frameworks are crucial in order to address the shortage of skilled workers in mechanical engineering in the long term.