Revealing the Shift: Over Half of Germany's Bus and Train Drivers Are Career Shifters
Majority of Public Transport Passengers in Germany Are Apparent Newcomers to These Services - Over 50% of bus and train operators in Germany identified as cross-traffic drivers in a recent survey.
(Get a fresh perspective on the changing landscape of Germany's public transport workforce)
The roles of bus and train drivers in Germany have seen a surprising transformation, with a significant portion of these positions filled by career changers. Statistically, around 100,000 bus drivers and 40,000 train drivers are currently employed, but the VDV (Association of German Transport Companies) reports a shortage of 20,000 for local buses alone, and a gap of 3,000 for trains [1]. The industry is grappling with these challenges, as Harald Kraus, the chairman of the VDV's personnel committee, puts it, "We are faced with substantial hurdles when it comes to recruiting personnel, particularly with regards to driving staff."
Enhanced workplace conditions and a more appreciative attitude from passengers are factors recognized by drivers as keys to making the profession more enticing. In a recent survey, approximately 30% of respondents acknowledged difficulties in harmonizing their duty schedules with their personal lives, and stressful driving conditions are often perceived as a strain [1].
Alarmingly, 51% of those surveyed deemed the social standing of their profession as poor or very poor, highlighting unfavorable working hours and lower pay as contributing factors [1]. Yet, in spite of these challenges, more than two-thirds (68.6%) opted for a career as a bus or train driver due to their love for driving, and job security was a decisive factor for 57.3%. Moreover, 47.3% viewed proximity to their residence as a priority [1].
For this study, the VDV, in collaboration with Nexum – a digital consultancy – surveyed 1,425 industry employees [1].
- Germany
- Career Shifters
- Berlin
- VDV
- Survey
A Closer Look into the Phenomenon:
With Germany's transport and logistics sector wrestling with a deficit of skilled workers, the industry has expanded its recruitment to encompass a broader range of applicants, not just traditional candidates, but career changers seeking steady employment [2]. The sector offers accessible training programs and apprenticeships, enabling individuals from diverse backgrounds to fast-track their way into the driving profession [2].
The stability and long-term opportunities afforded by transport roles make them appealing to those seeking a fresh career path with promising prospects [2]. In addition, the sector's future-proof nature, stemming from ongoing demand for public transport and logistics, further bolsters its appeal [2].
As an aging workforce prepares for retirement, the industry is eager to welcome new blood, viewing career changers as valuable assets to fill the future gaps [2]. Furthermore, the sector's relatively lower entry barriers, when compared to some other professions, attract those willing to embrace change and retrain [2].
[1]https://www.vdv.de/presse/pressemitteilungen/alle-pressemitteilungen/index.html[2]https://www.dw.com/en/why-germany-is-struggling-to-fill-jobs-in-the-transport-and-logistics-sector/a-54054924
- In an effort to address the shortage of skilled workers in Germany's transport sector, the industry is actively recruiting newcomers, recognizing the value that career shifters can bring to fill the gap left by the retiring workforce.
- The survey conducted by the Association of German Transport Companies (VDV) highlights Berlin as a significant area with a high proportion of newcomers constituting over half of the bus and rail passengers, indicating a growing trend of career shifts in the public-transit sector.
