STEM skills shortage in Germany persists: over 130,000 vacancies remained vacant in March 2026

The latest STEM Report of Spring 2026 shows that the shortage of skilled workers in Germany in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics remains high despite the economic downturn. In March 2026, around 133,900 vacancies in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) professions throughout the country remained unfilled. STEM skilled trades are particularly affected, with around 77,400 vacancies going vacant. There are also shortages of STEM experts with academic qualifications, as well as in master craftsman and technician roles.

The largest skills shortages are in energy and electrical professions, metalworking, construction trades, and mechanical and automotive engineering. According to the report, overall employment in STEM professions remains stable despite the economic crisis. At the same time, demographic trends are further exacerbating the situation: by 2034, there could be around 138,600 fewer STEM workers available to the labour market.

Future developments

The report emphasises that future developments depend heavily on tapping into additional sources of skilled labour. The focus is particularly on women, older workers and skilled immigrants. If this is achieved, the number of STEM workers could rise by around 263,000 by 2034 in the best-case scenario.

To encourage greater participation by women in STEM professions, the report recommends fostering an interest in and skills for mathematics and science subjects from an early age. In addition, gender-based stereotypes in education should be dismantled and the societal aspects of STEM professions – such as in the climate, environmental or health sectors – should be highlighted more strongly. Mentoring programmes and career and study guidance free from stereotypes are also cited as important measures.

For older employees, the report proposes needs-based further training opportunities and better conditions for later retirement. In the area of skilled labour migration, the report recommends faster and digitised administrative processes, as well as greater support for international students and trainees.

Strategic measures required 

Last but not least, the STEM Report calls for strategic measures across the entire education system. These include ensuring basic skills are acquired as early as in early childhood education, expanding digitalisation in schools, and providing greater support for STEM teaching. Artificial intelligence is to be integrated into teaching across all subjects as a key skill for the future. 

At the same time, the report brings to the limelight the shortage of teachers. In addition to recruiting more teachers, initial and continuing training should be designed to be practice-oriented, and digital skills must be made a mandatory part of the curriculum.

The STEM Report is published every six months by the Cologne Institute for Economic Research on behalf of several organisations within the National STEM Forum.