How free education can help you build a career in Germany

Expats looking for a job in Germany - particularly in the tech sector - often come up against the brick wall that is the lack of recognition for their foreign qualifications. Maria Schwenke from online tech course provider StackFuel explains what companies are looking for, and how a government support scheme can help you upskill and gain a recognised qualification. 

Starting a new career in a foreign country can be exciting, but it also comes with unique challenges. Expats looking for job opportunities in Germany, particularly in the tech sector, often face unique hurdles. However, with the right strategies and a focus on in-demand skills, these challenges can be overcome.

Navigating the job search in Germany: What are employers looking for?

Germany's tech industry is booming, creating plenty of job opportunities for expats with in-demand tech skills and for those willing to learn them. You might think that it will be difficult to land a good job without excellent German language skills, but this might be less of a challenge than you think. The IT sector has evolved in recent years and communication in English is both common and accepted. 

Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt are known as tech hubs, with a growing demand for skilled professionals. German tech companies and IT departments in these and other major cities are particularly open to expats, as they have many unfilled positions and are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit experts. In-demand tech skills such as software development, data analytics, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and cloud computing are in high demand on the German job market. 

However, one of the biggest hurdles for expats is meeting the job entry requirements set by German employers. While formal education and degrees are valued, expats may find it challenging to get their foreign qualifications recognised. This can lead to a mismatch between their skills and the expectations of the labour market. While a relevant degree is an advantage, many employers also value practical experience, German certifications, and a willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies.

Education vouchers: Get qualifications recognised by German employers

When looking for a tech job in Germany, it is important to understand what qualifications employers are looking for. While a formal degree can be an advantage, it is not always essential. Demonstrating practical skills, relevant work experience, and specific certifications can also impress employers. Moreover, demonstrating a willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies is also highly valued.

We have good news for expats looking to start a career in Germany: The German government offers free adult education through education vouchers, which can help expats gain the skills needed for tech jobs, and qualifications that are recognised by employers in Germany. 

German education providers offer access to high-quality courses and certification at beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. The education voucher allows expats to enrol in courses or programmes that match their career goals and the in-demand tech skills employers are looking for, free of charge.

By utilising education vouchers, expats can:

Gain new skills

Whether you want to start from scratch or build on existing skills, there are many courses to suit your goals. Look for providers that accept education vouchers, focus on real-world exercises and offer good, professional mentoring. You might also benefit from a personalised curriculum, where you can put together learning modules to suit your needs. 

Earn recognised certifications

Completing accredited courses and earning industry-recognised certifications can greatly enhance your resume and increase your chances of landing your dream job. You may want to look for a provider that works together with the German industry. This way, the education provider is already known, and your certificate will be recognised by employers. 

Network and connect

Participating in educational programmes allows you to connect with fellow students, faculty, and industry professionals, expanding your network and providing valuable opportunities for future collaboration or job referrals. 

Boost your career prospects with further education

Overcoming the expat job challenges in Germany's tech industry is possible with the help of free adult education. Courses for job seekers enable expats to acquire in-demand tech skills, gain valuable certifications, and build a strong professional network. With an education voucher, they can even take these courses for free. Seize the opportunity to boost your career prospects and excel in the dynamic world of technology.

StackFuel is a reputable coding and data science school that offers certificates valued by employers and industry experts. Their courses can be taken for free with an education voucher. To find out more about free training courses and how to get a voucher, you can sign up for a free information webinar taking place every third Wednesday of the month at 3.30pm CEST.