Launched: February 2023
The challenge
The chemical industry stands as a cornerstone of Europe's economy, boasting 3.4 million direct employees and contributing significantly to manufacturing employment, accounting for 11.9% of EU27 manufacturing jobs. Its impact extends further with indirect employment, often three times higher than direct employment figures. Notably, the industry offers higher salaries and greater productivity compared to the EU manufacturing average. However, to maintain its global competitiveness, it requires a skilled workforce. The industry faces a dual transition towards digitalisation and sustainability, necessitating significant changes in production, distribution and chemical usage. Being at the forefront of these changes, regions grapple with repercussions such as closures, job losses and social costs.
The ambition
The core aim of the regional skills partnership is to underscore the pivotal role of education, training and skills in steering the chemical industry through its green and digital transformation. By enhancing skills, the industry can fortify itself against market disruptions and vulnerabilities exposed by events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Emphasising innovation and safe chemical use promises substantial societal and environmental gains. The partnership seeks to establish a collaborative platform involving higher education institutions, vocational training providers, industry stakeholders and policymakers at both regional and European levels. It envisions the creation of inter-regional learning communities to bridge regional disparities and foster long-term impact.
The commitments
The partnership's primary commitment is to assist regions in navigating the challenges posed by the industry's transition to green and digital practices. Concrete deliverables and measurable milestones will guide this endeavour. Furthermore, it aims to facilitate constructive dialogue among social partners, educational institutions, research centres and industry players, ensuring all stakeholders' voices are heard. Identifying vulnerable regions and areas, sharing industry best practices and fostering project development are key priorities. The partnership will support regional authorities in communication efforts, raising awareness about the transition's complexities and opportunities. It will also champion digitalisation within the industry, advocating for continuous training to equip workers for evolving roles. Additionally, it will stress the importance of providing adequate time and resources for workforce training, collaborating closely with education providers to align skill expectations with industry needs.
Learn more about the European Chemical Regions Network skills partnership.
Contact and more information
Email: office
ecrn [dot] net (office[at]ecrn[dot]net)
Web: ecrn.net