With rapid changes in the economy, resource availability and environmental challenges, companies in Vienna and across the country are facing major changes in the way they do business—new jobs and expertise will be needed. While this can be disruptive for today’s labor market, it also creates new opportunities and career paths for the skilled workers of tomorrow. So what does the transformation of the labor market towards climate neutrality and a circular economy mean for companies, policymakers and job seekers?
In this Deep Dive, we will discuss the future needs and innovative concepts for green and circular jobs from a practical perspective as well as for labor market policy. With short keynote speeches, experts will provide food for thought before we open up a group discussion about the diverse aspects and opportunities of green and circular jobs. This event will take place as part of the Wiener Arbeitnehmer:innen Förderungsfonds (WAFF) Future Fit Festival.
Keynotes:
- Felix Baumeister (na no na net zero) will talk about how the acute shortage of skilled workers in green jobs, particularly in the field of renewable energies, is slowing our progress towards our climate targets – and what innovative solutions are needed to transform the labor market so that the energy transition can succeed.
- Lukas Wagner (ÖGUT) will provide insights into ÖGUT’s ongoing study on the need for recognized qualifications in the fields of circular economy and circular-oriented production. The discussion will look at what new skills are needed for the transformation and how job training programs can meet this demand.
- Jakob Selinger (ecoTRN) will share insights on how the shortage of skilled workers is a structural challenge influencing the energy transition and the role educational structures can play. He will also demonstrate how innovative EdTech solutions in immersive learning environments can help close skills gaps and meet the demand for skilled workers.
- Marion Schulz (Climate Lab) will present the results of “Circular Economy Jobs”—a project initiated by waff and implemented in cooperation with arbeit Plus. In this project, the team examined the needs and challenges for developing skilled workers in the areas of textiles, electronics and construction. A special focus was also placed on socio-economic enterprises in “low-tech sectors” such as repairing and reusing.
Location: Climate Lab, 8th floor