The German dual vocational training system has the potential to become one of the top German export hits – just a different kind. It refers to the concept of working in a company for a few days per week and attend a vocational school for the rest of the week. The teaching plans are rigorous and the instructors are well trained. The 3-year programs are standardized and supervised by the industry experts from the official Chambers of Crafts in Germany. This concept is not entirely new to the U.S. and has been successfully implemented for instance at Siemens in Charlotte, NC and Volkswagen in Chattanooga, TN. Hopefully San Diego will follow soon. Read more on the San Diego and Tijuana Workforce and Skills Initiative.
