Partial qualifications in materials testing: a modular route to a skilled worker qualification

We specialise in training technical professionals and have successfully obtained AZAV certification for partial qualifications based on the occupation of materials testing technician. These partial qualifications are training units lasting several months, derived from vocational training for materials testing technicians. Taken together, they cover the entire content of the regular vocational training programme.

The modules are designed as Modular Vocational Qualifications. This means that each individual unit already provides the ability to carry out occupational tasks independently – in other words, skills that enable entry into the regular labour market.

Partial qualifications as a response to the shortage of skilled workers

Partial qualifications pursue several labour market policy objectives. They are intended to help counter the shortage of skilled workers, reduce the number of low-skilled employees and integrate people returning to work or changing careers into the labour market. To achieve this, traditional vocational training is divided into modules. The individual training units allow flexible entry and exit points in the training process.

The advantage of this approach is that it can enable faster integration into the labour market. The modular structure also supports motivation to learn, as training can be completed step by step and paused if necessary.

A route to the IHK skilled worker examination

Those who successfully complete all partial qualifications for a recognised training occupation may then be admitted to the skilled worker examination at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK). AZAV-certified partial qualifications, such as those offered by Werkstoff Service, may also be eligible for funding from the Federal Employment Agency. Possible funding programmes include the Initiative zur Flankierung des Strukturwandels (IFlaS), an initiative supporting structural change.

Companies are also increasingly using Modular Vocational Qualifications for funded continuing education for their employees as part of long-term staff development strategies.

An overview of our partial qualifications

We currently offer six certified partial qualifications based on the occupation of materials testing technician. They comply with the Federal Employment Agency’s design principles for Modular Vocational Qualifications and cover the following subjects:

1. Fundamentals of non-destructive testing (test technician)
2. Fundamentals of destructive materials testing
3. Non-destructive testing I and mobile materials testing
4. Materials testing and heat treatment
5. Non-destructive testing II and radiation protection
6. Complex destructive and non-destructive testing

Prospects for participants and companies

The partial qualifications, each lasting several months, can be completed individually or combined. In accordance with the Federal Employment Agency’s requirements, each partial qualification includes a work placement accounting for around 25% of the training period. These practical phases enable participants to apply what they have learned directly to real working processes and make it easier to enter professional practice.

Werkstoff Service’s partial qualifications can, in principle, support admission to the IHK final examination. However, the decision on admission always rests with the relevant Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

W.S. Werkstoff Service GmbH – expertise in continuing education

If you have further questions about our training programmes – for example, about occupational entry requirements, funding options, evidence of qualifications or course dates – the contact team at W.S. TrainingCenter will be happy to help. Find out more about our Modular Vocational Qualifications.