How training ambassadors inspire students for their professions

When apprentices talk about their jobs in schools, it can change students' perceptions of those professions. A recent study by the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) shows that female students, in particular, subsequently show greater interest in technical careers.

Apprenticeship ambassadors visit schools and present their professions to classes. They talk about their daily training experiences and answer students' questions. Now, their importance to the dual vocational training system has been scientifically proven. The ambassadors can positively change young people's perceptions of apprenticeships – especially among female students. This is shown by recent results of a joint study by the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) and the Technical University (TU) Darmstadt.

After visits from apprentices, female students in particular are more aware of STEM apprenticeships and are more likely to consider these careers for themselves. The study included students in general education schools from the ninth grade onwards. 

One reason for this is the shortage of skilled workers in technical and IT professions . Young women remain significantly underrepresented in these fields.

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Age-appropriate and on equal terms

The study examined real-life encounters with apprentices in classrooms. These apprentices describe their daily training experiences to the students in an age-appropriate and relatable way. After the visit, female students more frequently reported knowing more about the STEM apprenticeships presented.

Afterwards, they were more likely to imagine pursuing training or later employment in these professions. The study found no such changes among school students.

The study featured predominantly male apprenticeship ambassadors presenting their STEM apprenticeships. According to the BIBB (Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training), the results suggest that male apprenticeship ambassadors can also contribute to female students considering STEM careers more seriously.

Previously, it was assumed that girls in technical professions primarily needed female role models to feel drawn to them. "The results impressively demonstrate how important personal insights into professional practice are for sound career guidance," emphasizes BIBB Research Director Prof. Hubert Ertl.

"Apprenticeship ambassadors do more than just provide information about professions. They make apprenticeships tangible and practical, and can open up new career opportunities for young people. This is particularly relevant where stereotypical ideas still restrict career choices."

However, the study also reveals the limitations of this approach. While school visits increased students' knowledge of STEM apprenticeships and strengthened their willingness to consider these careers, their job-specific self-efficacy—that is, their assessment of their ability to successfully complete an apprenticeship in such a profession—remained unchanged. Further action is needed in this area. 

Source: BIBB 

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