Thuringian photonics industry defies crisis and creates new jobs in 2050!

Thuringian photonics industry defies crisis and creates new jobs in 2050!

The economy in Germany is currently struggling with tense times, especially the medium -sized businesses are affected. As thueringen24.de , the uncertainty is noticeable in many regions, and a damping of the atmosphere is broad. However, there are also bright spots: the photonics industry in Thuringia plans to create a total of 2,050 new positions by the end of 2026. Most of these positions, about 500, are grabs due to age exits, which reflects the age structure of the industry.

Despite a continued doldrum and high costs, the photonics industry remains optimistic. There are currently 650 vacancies in Thuringia, especially in the areas of research, production, electronics and IT. Here, however, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find suitable engineers, while the applicant for commercial professions looks quite good. Technical specialists are more in demand than ever what the industry presents with challenges.

wide technology spectrum and international networking

A look at the Thuringian photonics industry shows that it covers an impressive technology spectrum. According to photonicsreport.optonet.optonet.info , the Thuringia location is nationally and internationally recognized and offers a density of companies that are active in areas such as optics and mechanics, measurement technology and sensors as well as laser technology. This has a positive effect on the entire value creation - the companies in Thuringia cover all relevant areas of photonics and thus prove their competitiveness.

The connections to research institutions within the Optonet industry network strengthen the flexibility and resilience of these companies. Anke Siegmeier and Nora Kirsten, who lead the network, are convinced that the close cooperation not only promotes exchange, but also releases new innovation potential. Abroad also plays an important role: 72% of the sales of the Thuringian photonics companies were generated abroad in 2022, with the goals of Western Europe, North America and China. The industry sees the greatest future chance in the USA.

shortage of skilled workers and future prospects

One of the biggest challenges for the photonics industry remains the shortage of skilled workers. Around two thirds of the companies surveyed report this problem and see them as a serious threat to economic growth. In order to counteract this, the framework conditions for MINT formation and immigration should be improved urgently. About 80% of companies in the industry are already concerned with international background - a clear indication of the need for international recruitment.

The upcoming W3+ Mass, which will take place in Jena on November 29 and 30, 2023, is another step to promote networking in the industry. Over 130 companies and partners will present their products and services accompanied by conferences and events that support the exchange among the actors. These events are of great importance for strengthening the industry, not only locally, but also internationally.

The Thuringian photonics industry is well there despite numerous challenges: With record investments in research and development, which is to achieve a value of 600 million euros in 2024, it can be seen that the companies are willing to actively invest in their future. The optimism remains that the negative framework conditions will improve in the future and that photonics in Thuringia can continue to play a Anglo -based role in the world market.