A shortage of skilled workers in Upper Styria: opportunities and challenges on site

A shortage of skilled workers in Upper Styria: opportunities and challenges on site

in Eastern Upper Styria, where an exciting mix of regional and international companies unfolds, there are numerous options for specialists. These companies, many of them in their sectors, are urgently looking for qualified employees, especially in industries such as industry, care and childcare. The diverse apprenticeship offers became clear on the career day.

The latest migration data in 2023 in Styria show that many migrants from cities such as Vienna, Lower Austria, Upper Austria and Carinthia move to this region. Interestingly, many attracters from abroad also come from abroad, including Slovenia, Croatia, Romania, Türkiye and Germany.

advantages of the region

A big plus of the eastern Upper Styria are the relatively cheap living opportunities. While the square meter prices in Graz are high, you often get a house here for half of the price. Rental prices are also significantly lower than in cities like Vienna. The location of the region is also another attractive feature. The big cities of Zurich, Munich and the Adriatic coast are only a few hours away and with the completion of the Koralm and Semmering tunnels, the traffic connection will continue to improve from 2030- the journey time between Graz and Vienna will then only be 1 hour and 50 minutes.

In order to attract new specialists, regional companies rely on flexible working hours, further training opportunities and good remuneration. These approaches make the region particularly attractive for potential employees.

support for new citizens

The immigration management teams of the cities of Leoben, Bruck an der Mur and Kapfenberg also make an important contribution. They offer comprehensive support for newcomers so that they have a smooth start in their new home. Information about living opportunities, childcare and leisure activities are provided to facilitate the influx. This also includes offers for partners and family members of the addition, which is crucial for long -term settlement.

The challenge remains not only to attract these specialists, but also to keep them in the region in the long term. The regional management acts as a hub and coordinates the activities of the influx network, which consists of the cities of Leoben, Bruck an der Mur, Kapfenberg and the 35 municipalities of Eastern Upper Mark. Initiatives such as Obersteiersteigk play a central role here. On the website Obersteierstark.at Find all the relevant information for life and work in the region that will soon also be available in English.

Lisa Hausberger from the regional management emphasizes: "We also support the provision of multilingual information, especially at events such as the educational fair 'Education for everyone', which takes place in autumn 2025."

Network options are also important for the integration of the attracters. There are various communities in the region that promote informal exchange. The influx management and civil service facilities provide information about local associations to better integrate newcomers. Companies are also committed to supporting the networking of their new employees, while educational institutions such as the Montan University Leoben or the FH Joanneum Kapfenberg offer programs for students from abroad

In addition, the Iron Women networks for locals and regional management are planning a cook event together with the rural training institute and the market town to celebrate regional specialties and create exchange opportunities.