Association: More Training Contracts Concluded in Craft Trades - Baden-Württemberg's skilled trades see record apprenticeship growth in 2025

Baden-Württemberg saw a rise in apprenticeships across the skilled trades in 2025. A total of 18,847 new contracts were signed, marking a 3.2% increase from the previous year. The growth reflects a growing interest among young people in careers within the sector.

The construction trades led the way, with painters, masons, and roofers recording the highest percentage gains in new apprenticeships. Demand for these roles surged compared to other handwerk professions.

Food-related trades also performed strongly. Bakers and butchers saw a notable rise in trainees joining their ranks. Women made up a larger share of new apprentices in 2025. The number of female trainees climbed by 6.3%, with 3,810 women starting their training. Rainer Reichhold, president of *Handwerk BW*, highlighted this trend as a positive shift for the industry. Reichhold also noted that skilled trades are gaining appeal among young people. More are now viewing these careers as viable and attractive options.

The 2025 figures show steady growth in apprenticeships across Baden-Württemberg's skilled trades. Construction and food trades led the increase, while more women entered the sector than before. The trend suggests a stronger interest in handwerk careers among the next generation.