Dr. Brodführer: Pace for change in the Wartburg district!
Dr. Michael Brodführer, district administrator since July 2025, brings a breath of fresh air to the Wartburg district with a focus on the economy, immigration and administration.

Dr. Brodführer: Pace for change in the Wartburg district!
On July 1, 2025, Dr. Michael Brodführer takes up his position as district administrator of the Wartburg district. Since taking office, his credo has been clear: “Pace, pace, pace”. He brings a fresh perspective to the political landscape and is known for his strong creative drive. In his first year, he has already made great progress with short and long-term strategies for sustainable change. He describes himself as non-ideological, relaxed and unconventional. Dr. Brod leader of the need for a confident mood and trustworthy actions to motivate and integrate local people. [Rhoenkanal].
What's on the agenda? According to Dr. Brodführer there are three central challenges for the Wartburg district: economic transformation, demographic development and the restructuring of the district administration. The automotive industry, for example, is under pressure from rising costs and an acute shortage of skilled workers. Dr. Brodführer has therefore set itself the goal of making the Wartburg district the economically strongest district in Thuringia. This also includes an increased focus on supporting children and young people and creating attractive training and jobs.
Demographic challenges and skills shortages
The population decline is a major problem. Falling birth rates and an increasing number of retirees are putting a strain on the Wartburg district. The shortage of skilled workers not only affects industry, but also crafts, care and services - especially in rural areas. In order to counteract these developments, the district plans to actively promote immigration and create integration opportunities for immigrants. Citizens are encouraged to be friendly and open to new fellow citizens. This shows that the shortage of skilled workers is a national phenomenon, which is made clear by the skilled workers monitoring of the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs (BMAS). BMAS studies indicate that significant workforce potential will remain unused by 2028, particularly among women, people with a migrant background and older workers. BMAS emphasizes that the challenges posed by demographic changes, digitalization and structural change continue to exist.
The sectors most affected by the skills shortage include healthcare, information technology and the skilled trades. While the demand for nurses and doctors in the healthcare sector is increasing, the IT industry cannot adequately train the software developers and engineers it needs. Mercer points out that the need for specific qualifications in transforming companies is also growing.
Reorganization of the district administration
Another aspect of Dr. Brodführer's agenda is the restructuring of the district administration. Structural changes are planned to make the administration leaner, more agile and more service-oriented. Instead of acting reactively, the district administrator relies on proactive action. This is intended to help increase efficiency and provide better service to citizens.
All in all, Dr. Brodführer aims to make the Wartburg district the friendliest district in Germany - a project that should happen not only through investments, but also through an open and inclusive attitude of all citizens. In a time of rapid change, we all have a responsibility to show acceptance and friendliness so that the region continues to thrive and all citizens have a good life.