As talent acquisition becomes increasingly challenging due to demographic shifts and a shortage of skilled workers, companies must rethink their approach to talent management. Particularly in the manufacturing sector, automation and evolving job requirements demand new strategies to retain and develop existing employees. Instead of losing valuable talent to industry changes, companies can invest in structured retraining programs that adapt employees to new roles. Our successful collaboration with the “Agentur für Arbeit” and “IHK” has enabled us to implement a two-year retraining program that brings together employees of all ages, fostering knowledge transfer and strengthening internal capabilities. Beyond technical skills, leadership development is another key focus. Our Female Leader Mentoring Program has been a game-changer in preparing women for leadership roles through cross-company mentorship. By pairing new female leaders with experienced mentors from different organizations, the program provides an open space for guidance, career growth, and work-life balance support. Now in its third year, the initiative has proven to be an invaluable tool in developing confident, well-equipped female leaders. n this session we explain how retraining, upskilling, and mentoring can help businesses navigate talent shortages and prepare for the future of work. In this session you will learn

• How to implement a retraining program that helps companies retain employees and adapt them to evolving job roles instead of making them redundant.
• How to leverage government and industry partnerships, such as the “IHK” and “Agentur für Arbeit”, to create cost-effective and impactful retraining initiatives.
• How a cross-company Female Leader Mentoring Program fosters career development, confidence, and leadership skills for women in management positions