The European Labour Authority's
latest report on labor market imbalances highlights a severe shortage of air conditioning and refrigeration mechanics in 11 European countries. Compiled with data from EURES National Coordination Offices, the report identifies these shortages in Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Germany, Greece, Latvia, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Romania, and Slovenia.
Ranked as the fifth most severe shortage occupation, over 60% of vacancies in this field are challenging to fill. This shortage is particularly critical in the construction sector, which plays a significant role in the EU's energy efficiency objectives.
Factors affecting this shortage include evolving skill needs due to green and digital transitions, an aging workforce, and insufficient recruitment of younger workers, with only 18% under 30 and a lack of female representation.
To address these issues, the sector needs to attract more young talent by promoting technical innovation, competitive wages, and enhanced health and safety standards. As recognized by the United Nations, the refrigeration sector is both a development and environmental priority, essential for human life and climate change mitigation.
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