NPR

Robust Apprenticeship Program Key To Germany's Manufacturing Might

Every year, about half a million young Germans enter the workforce through apprenticeship training programs. They provide a steady stream of highly qualified industrial workers.
Apprentice industrial clerk Henrik Tillmann assembles a valve for a commercial aircraft galley kitchen at Hebmuller Aerospace near Dusseldorf, Germany.

This is the second of three reports from NPR's John Ydstie on Germany's manufacturing strength.

Manufacturing accounts for nearly a quarter of Germany's economy. In the U.S., it's about half that. A key element of that success is Germany's apprenticeship training program.

Every year, about half a million young Germans enter the workforce through these programs. They provide a steady stream of highly qualified industrial workers that helps Germany maintain a reputation for producing top-quality products.

Henrik Tillmann is among the current crop

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