According to the latest IW-Survey on Training and Employment, more than half of the responding firms are either already experiencing a shortage of skilled employees or are expecting one in the next few years. This applies in particular to natural sciences and engineering and medium-skilled workers in technical professions. Efforts to offer initial and continuous vocational training have therefore been intensified. In addition, companies are trying to fill vacant positions either by transferring workers from other parts of the company or by luring applicants from the external labor market with the offer of additional wage premiums.