"For us, training means much more than just teaching specialist knowledge or administrative processes," emphasizes District Administrator Dietmar Allgaier. "We support young people both professionally and personally and thus invest in the administration of tomorrow."
Demographic change makes promoting young talent indispensable
The district of Ludwigsburg currently employs around 2,500 people. At the same time, demographic change poses major challenges for public administration: Around 1,150 employees belong to the baby boomer generation and will be retiring in the coming years. In contrast, only around 15 percent of employees belong to Generation Z. In order to counteract the shortage of skilled workers at an early stage, the district is making targeted investments in recruiting and developing young talent.
"Well-trained junior staff are the capital of the future," says Head of Training Stephanie Brand. "That's why we see training as a particularly sustainable form of personnel development."
Broad range of training opportunities with future prospects
Every year, around 30 to 35 trainees and students start more than 15 different training and study courses at the district administration office. The offer ranges from traditional administrative professions and social studies courses to technical and infrastructural apprenticeships. The portfolio is supplemented by internships, voluntary services and qualification opportunities for career changers.
Training opportunities are being continuously expanded
The district is also continuously expanding its range of apprenticeships. In 2024, for example, training as a "specialist for protection and security" was introduced for the first time - an IHK lighthouse project that the district office was the first public administration to implement. A further training position is already planned for 2027.
Additional capacity has also been created in various areas. For example, internships in general social services have been expanded and new courses such as the bachelor's degree in "Digital Administration Management" or "Social Work with Older People" have been prepared.
Modern training begins before the first day of work
The district administration office attaches particular importance to modern and attractive training. Trainees receive intensive support even before their first day at work. The digital "Trainee World" gives them early access to information, introductory videos and organizational tips. At the beginning of the apprenticeship, the program also includes a personal meeting with District Administrator Dietmar Allgaier and an interactive induction week. The induction week has been continuously developed over the past few years and designed with a practical focus. In addition to information formats, it includes team activities and insights into modern technologies.
Personal support throughout the entire training period
Trainees also receive intensive support throughout their training. Regular feedback meetings, learning afternoons, exam preparation and further training for personal development are just as much a part of the concept as the support provided by experienced apprentice mentors.
Training officers are qualified
Another focus is on the qualification of training officers. Quality standards are to be further strengthened through targeted training and a shared understanding of their role. "We want to actively shape training and develop it in a future-oriented way," Brand continues. "This is not just about recruiting skilled workers, but also about offering young people prospects and inspiring them with the values of public service."
Training concept as part of the future strategy
The new training concept is part of the district administration office's personnel development concept. "Despite digitalization and artificial intelligence, the focus remains on people," emphasizes Brand. "Many tasks in public administration require personal advice, responsibility and empathy."
