On 17 May 2022, in the framework of the European Vocational Skills Week 2022, the European Chemical Regions Network (ECRN) is organising the hybrid conference “How to bridge the skills gap to enable the green and digital transformation of the chemical industry”.

The chemical industry is vital to the European job market. As of 2018, in the EU27 manufacturing industry, the chemical sector was the second largest employers, accounting for 3.4 million direct jobs (11.9% of total employment) and an even greater number of indirect jobs – up to three times higher than through direct employment.

More importantly, salaries are 45% higher and productivity is 67% higher compared to the average in the EU manufacturing sector. These figures clearly indicate that the chemical sector offers a high number of well-remunerated jobs, but it also needs highly-trained and skilled workers to remain competitive globally.

The event will discuss the role of skills and education in making the European chemical industry ready for the green and digital transitions, competitive at the global level, and resilient to market disruptions. It will also touch on the importance of domestic production of key materials and products, such as basic chemicals, to address EU strategic dependencies.

ECRN wants to establish a platform for cooperation between different stakeholders, mainly education providers, companies, and decision-makers at the regional and European level. We also want to promote the sharing of best practices and the launch of innovative ideas, such as the creation of interregional learning communities to bridge the gaps between European regions, enhance EU cohesion, and produce a long-term impact on the competitiveness of the European economy.

The event will take place in a hybrid form. Participants will be able to join online or attend in person at the House of Dutch Provinces in Brussels (Address: Rue de Treves 59, 1040, Brussels).

More information will follow on ECRN communication channels.