While new technologies and energy efficiency requirements are driving the demand for skills in the construction sector, some of its inherent characteristics, such as its low attractiveness, structural specificities and the challenges in delivering vocational education and training (VET), pose obstacles to the development of skills needed to flourish. In addition, difficulties in skill recognition across countries limit mobility among workers as a possible solution for skills shortages. This is a conclusion of the Analytical Report elaborated by the European Construction Sector Observatory (ECSO), aiming to draw a snapshot of the current skills situation in the construction sector. The objectives of GSSVet mobility action were to improve trainees’ skills, through the adoption of innovative teaching methods and curriculum in RES Geothermal and Solar Systems installations. 
 

On December 2018, the international training of 20 professional trainers in Geothermal and Solar installations field, has reached its end, been successfully implemented in Berlin within the framework of the “GSSVet Geothermal and Solar Skills” program (Erasmus+, Key Action 1).  In Berlin, the trainers participated in interactive sessions with peers from Vocational institutes, related institutes and administration authorities, including work-based learning of the “dual system” of training applied in Germany. 

The training places were: LDI Educational Center, the Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), where they were informed about the educational policy for the energy sector in Germany. They had the opportunity to discuss in workshops with peers in the “Chamber of Skilled Crafts”, and in the German Geothermal Association, and Geo-En Energy Technologies GmbH. Moreover, the training content was extended on transversal skills, including entrepreneurship, Smart houses, and interdisciplinary skills, including the ability to work effectively with people from other disciplines needed."

More information can be found on the website of the European Training Center for Employment – ECTE (www.ecte.gr) and on the program page http://www.ecte.gr/ecte-projects/geothermal-and-solar-skills-erasmus-ka1 /. The partnership is also comprised of by the Chamber of Chania and Small Enterprises’ Institute (KEK IME GSEVEE).

Coordinator of the mobility action is the European Training Center for Employment.  The partnership is also comprised of VET institutes of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Chania and  the association of  Small Enterprises & crafts - KEK GSEVEE. The objective of the Erasmus + Program, Key Action 1, "Geothermal and Solar Skills", was to provide the necessary resources for adult professional trainers to meet the growing demand for new skills of electricians and plumbers working in geothermal and solar plants, enabling them to understand and install photovoltaic, solar thermal and geothermal heat pumps.

The program was financed by the Erasmus+ program of the European Union