In his certificate, the IHK praises and recognizes him for this outstanding achievement. ISIT Director Prof. Dr. Axel Müller Groeling also congratulated. "Congratulations Artem, on this great success. We are proud of you and hope that a little of your shine will also fall on ISIT." Microtechnologists have been successfully trained at ISIT since 2000. Every year, two dedicated young people get the opportunity to start the 3-year dual education.

On November 18, 2021, the IHKs from Flensburg, Kiel and Lübeck honored the best trainees in the state. From the housekeeper to the saddle maker. Among the young stars of the economy: microtechnologist Artem Kormann.

"You have more than successfully set the course for your future and have bright prospects of making a full professional start. You are the best brand ambassadors we could wish for dual training. Congratulations!" said Friederike C. Kühn, President of the Schleswig-Holstein Chamber of Industry and Commerce, to the 106 best apprentices in the state. 90 of them had come to the ACO Thormanhalle in Büdelsdorf to receive their certificates and glass trophies from the Deputy Prime Minister Monika Heinold and the top IHK officials. In addition to Artem Kormann, nine others have become 2021 national best in their professions.

At the event, Kühn emphasized the importance of dual training for Germany. The successful model of dual training shows its true strength in crises: youth unemployment in Germany was the lowest of all EU countries in January 2021. "Only through continuous and practical training will we ensure that our economy continues to develop well in the future.

After the Corona dip, however, the shortage of skilled workers as the biggest business risk is back with unexpected force. In some sectors, companies are finding no or hardly any skilled workers and trainees," Kühn warned. According to the skilled labor projection, there would be a shortage of at least 180,000 employees in Schleswig-Holstein by 2035 - primarily at the skilled labor level. "Promoting young talent is always also about securing the future and is therefore more important than ever," said the IHK president. On behalf of the three IHKs in the state, Kühn also thanked the companies and the examiners for their training efforts.

On behalf of the state government, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Monika Heinold addressed the year's best: "I congratulate all trainees with top performances on their great and special success. They have shown remarkable performance, talent and diligence and this in extraordinary times. Congratulations! I wish that you will keep your curiosity and commitment for the future. The success of the state's best is also a great success for the trainers. Thank you very much for your commitment and support."

Despite the high value placed on dual training, the chambers of commerce and industry in Schleswig-Holstein have registered around ten percent fewer training contracts than in the pre-crisis year of 2019. Lack of professional orientation and internships that are difficult to carry out under corona conditions are among the reasons. "Now it is important to prepare training for the post-pandemic. Because it's only through career orientation that young people get a feel for the diversity of professions, their own preferences and also career opportunities." In order to maintain the attractiveness of dual training, he said, up-to-date equipment in schools with digital teaching and learning facilities is essential, as is efficient public transport that meets demand. "For trainees, good and cost-effective accessibility to their vocational schools and companies is still an absolute must today," Kühn warned.

Their market value, she said, had certainly already been sounded out by the state's best. "Believe me: already today, you have excellent opportunities and are taken with a kiss hand everywhere. Take advantage of this opportunity, gain experience in the companies and become a trainer yourself. As our brand ambassadors for dual vocational training, advertise the program to your friends and acquaintances and inspire others. After your apprenticeship, it's not over for you by a long shot - I promise you that!"