Our sector needs a sufficient number of well-trained people to remain innovative and future-proof. This includes mechanics, technicians, engineers, software developers, and other professionals who contribute to the development, production, and digitization of our sector. At all educational levels—from vocational education (MBO) to higher professional education (HBO) and university education (WO)—the demand for talent is high. Due to the tight labor market and the declining working-age population, attracting, developing, and retaining talent remains a structural challenge.
At the same time, technology, job roles, and employee expectations are changing rapidly. This calls for a strong connection between education and the workplace, good development opportunities, and attractive employment conditions.
Fedecom helps companies attract, train, and retain talent. We raise the sector’s profile among new target groups, strengthen collaboration between education and the business community, and support employers with expertise and practical solutions. In this way, we ensure that people at all levels can enter the sector, continue to develop, and enjoy working in our sector.
We are committed to a sector full of opportunities for talent, technology, and development.
(Young) Talent
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Promoting Entry into the Sector
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We increase the influx of talent by making the sector visible and attractive to high school students, college students, and career changers. We highlight the educational and career opportunities available—from vocational education (MBO) to university (WO)—and connect talent with companies.
We do this through events, educational activities, online campaigns, and partnerships with educational institutions. We also support members with practical resources to raise the profile of their businesses and the sector at the regional level and to strengthen ties with schools. Through initiatives such as the Smart Machines career path, we provide clarity on career paths within the sector. In this way, we attract more talent and professionals at all levels.
2
A strong connection between education and practice
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We ensure that education keeps pace with the developments and needs of companies in our sector. That is why we actively bring up-to-date knowledge, innovations, and practical experiences from businesses into the educational system. In this way, we help students develop the knowledge and skills that companies need today and in the future.
As a partner of Tech in Motion (TIM), we connect education, the business community, and government around the technological developments that are transforming our sector. Through TIM, our involvement with SBB, and our participation in committees and roundtables, we bring insights from the field directly to the attention of educational institutions. In this way, we encourage the continued development of degree programs, curricula, and learning materials in line with the needs of businesses.
We also support educational institutions with practical knowledge, guest lectures, company visits, and teaching materials. In this way, we ensure that students are introduced to the latest technologies, innovations, and working methods in the sector. In this way, we strengthen the connection between education and the job market and foster a new generation of professionals who are ready for the real world.
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Education and Continuing Professional Development
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We encourage professionals and employees to continue developing throughout their careers. After all, new technologies and societal developments constantly demand new knowledge and skills.
Together with educational institutions and knowledge partners, we develop educational programs, training courses, and professional development pathways that meet the needs of companies and professionals. This enables employees to keep pace with changes in their field and ensures that companies continue to have access to the right knowledge and expertise. We work closely with partners such as OOM to ensure that our offerings, programs, and support are well-aligned with real-world practice.
4
Good employment practices as the foundation for retention
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We help companies put best practices in employment into action. Good employment practices increase employee engagement, encourage professional development, and contribute to job satisfaction. As such, they form an important foundation for attracting, developing, and retaining talent and professionals.
Fedecom supports companies with knowledge, best practices, and practical tools related to good employment practices. Through knowledge sessions, training programs, and collaboration with partners such as OOM, we help employers create a work environment where employees can grow and remain committed to the company and the sector over the long term.
Knowledge of (Young) Talent
July 28, 2026Metalektro Collective Bargaining Agreement 2026Read more
July 28, 2026Metalektro Collective Bargaining AgreementRead more
July 28, 2026Collective Bargaining Agreement for the Metalworking IndustryRead more
July 28, 2026Collective Bargaining Agreement for the Metalworking Industry 2026–2028Read more
July 28, 2026Collective Bargaining Agreements and Human Resources for Fedecom MembersRead more