Ahead of EuroSkills Herning 2025, Danfoss is calling for a greater investment in young people and a stronger commitment to vocational education in Europe.
With Europe facing a potential shortfall of up to 1.7 million green-skilled workers by 2030, the green transition risks stalling without a well-prepared workforce. To help address this challenge and support long-term development, Danfoss will serve as an event partner at EuroSkills Herning 2025, Europe’s largest competition for young skilled professionals, taking place from 9–13 September 2025 at MCH Messecenter Herning.
As part of Danfoss’ active engagement in creating the workforce of the future, Danfoss has sponsored the Manufacturing and Engineering Technology Hall at MCH, which will be named Danfoss Hall. Danfoss will also be supplying the majority of the technical equipment for the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning competition, while serving as the Official Competition Partner.
Young people in Europe are sending a clear signal. Thirty percent now prefer vocational training over academic careers, and 77% say sustainability is central to their career choices. But too many feel unprepared. That’s why we need to invest more in young people and in long-term technical skill development. Because without them, Europe’s green transition cannot succeed.
Commitment to vocational education
Danfoss has a strong focus on education and offers internships and apprenticeships across 15 different vocational programmes. Through the EuroSkills partnership, Danfoss aims to highlight the importance of skilled labor and inspire more young people to choose a vocational education.
“As a family-owned business, we believe in investing long-term in people, skills, and innovation. About 5% of our sales go into R&D, and our apprenticeship program in Denmark shows real results, with two out of the three trainees moving into full-time roles. This is how we help build a skilled workforce and strengthen Europe’s resilience and competitiveness,” says Kristian Strand.
Contributing to a more competitive future for Europe
European competitiveness is under growing pressure, with strong global rivals advancing in innovation, productivity, and industrial leadership. Skilled workers are essential to securing Europe’s competitive edge and driving future growth. Kristian Strand explains:
“Europe is facing a shortage of skilled labor, and urgent action is needed to reverse the trend. Companies must be systematically included in EU skills strategies, mobility across borders should be strengthened, and vocational training must be recognized as a pathway into higher education. Only then can we build the flexible, future-ready workforce Europe needs.”
Community and talent development
When EuroSkills kicks off, more than 700 young participants will compete across 38 disciplines. This gives Danfoss a unique opportunity to meet future talents and strengthen the company’s ties to vocational education in Denmark and across Europe.
“Danfoss is proud to be a pioneer in the field of vocational learning. Together with public authorities, we have developed Denmark’s first international vocational training program, creating new opportunities for young people and setting a benchmark for others to follow,” says Kristian Strand.
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Apprentices at Danfoss are part of a welcoming community where they can grow their skills, get guidance from mentors, and start building their career.