The Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector is playing an increasingly critical role in shaping Europe’s future workforce. Based on projections from Cedefop, some key professions will experience significant growth by 2035—highlighting the urgent need to align education with labor market trends. 🔎📊
Many of these professions are trained through post-secondary school courses run by Higher VET schools across Europe.
🔹 Health Associate Professionals: The demand is set to rise to 7.14 million jobs (+33% since 2009). With an aging population and the increasing importance of healthcare services, skilled professionals in this sector are essential.
🔹 ICT Technicians: A 50% increase in jobs is expected from 2009 to 2035, reaching over 2 million positions. The digital transformation is fueling this demand, making digital skills a must-have for the future.
🔹 Science & Engineering Technicians: Already one of the largest professional groups, their numbers will grow to 8.5 million by 2035, emphasizing the need for STEM-related VET pathways.
🔹 Legal & Social Associate Professionals: A rise to 4.83 million jobs (+56% since 2009) indicates the growing need for experts in law, social work, and community support.
However, Hospitality & Retail Managers will see a decline, with projections showing a drop from 2.8M in 2009 to 2.25M in 2035.
So Higher VET has a pivotal importance to satisfy the current and the future demand of European of professions.
The rise of automation, e-commerce, AI and changing consumer habits are reshaping this field. In this sense the higher VET schools strongly support the European digital and green transitions.
📢 What does this mean for VET?
✅ Adapting curricula to meet emerging skills needs
✅ Strengthening digital and STEM education pathways
✅ Preparing the workforce for a fast-changing economy
Are we ready for these shifts? Let’s discuss how Higher VET can continue to be a driving force for employment and innovation!
