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Mechanical and electrical engineering in Germany's "True North"

A powerful driver for the solutions of tomorrow 

Schleswig-Holstein is a key driver of innovation and growth in Northern Germany, particularly in mechanical engineering. Companies here invest heavily in research and development, with an impressive export share of approximately 64 %. Renowned global leaders such as Sauer-Danfoss, Vossloh, Caterpillar and Jungheinrich thrive in our region, benefiting from its central location and proximity to key international seaports and Hamburg Airport. 
 
Around 550 companies employing nearly 25,000 skilled workers contribute to this sector's comprehensive value chain - in everything from plant and engine construction to automation technology, machine tool production and robotics. Besides strong domestic demand, mechanical engineering products "Made in Schleswig-Holstein" enjoy a sound presence in international markets, especially in countries like China which are still key export destinations. 

Facts & Figures
Bn Euro revenue
% Export rate
+ companies
Employees in 2022
Person arbeitet am Computer mit technischer Zeichnung.

Focus areas in Northern Germany's mechanical engineering sector
Schleswig-Holstein’s mechanical engineering sector is a cornerstone of local industry, driving innovation in future technologies. Our region excels in automation solutions and IoT offerings, providing robust foundations for the development of smart machinery. With the rapid expansion of digital infrastructure, including fibre-optic networks and LoRaWAN technology, Schleswig-Holstein offers ideal conditions for advancing mechanical engineering solutions and smart innovations. The key areas of expertise include: Tool and metal making: Advanced manufacturing techniques that support a wide range of industries. Environmental technology: Sustainable solutions that promote greener industry practices. Hydraulics and pneumatics: High-performance systems for industrial applications. Packaging and...
Metallfräsmaschine in Betrieb mit blauen Spänen auf Tisch.

Applied research and industry collaboration
Schleswig-Holstein can point to a long-standing tradition in applied research, particularly in the fields of engineering and electronics. A prime example is the Kiel University of Applied Sciences, which maintains strong connections with local industries. Around 80% of the university's finals' theses are completed in collaboration with companies, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience. The university’s focus on future-relevant topics, such as climate change and sustainable technologies, is backed by state-of-the-art laboratories in fields such as production engineering and robotics. That high-quality education, applied research and close industry ties are closely linked ensures Schleswig-Holstein is not only shaping the workforce of tomorrow but also driving innovation in...
Zwei Personen unterhalten sich an einem Tisch mit Laptop.

Talents
Schleswig-Holstein offers an ideal environment for incoming mechanical engineering companies looking to access skilled talent and cutting-edge research. Our region's strong educational foundations, with over 30 technical degree programs, ensure that mechanical engineering companies can tap into a steady pool of qualified professionals. Currently, more than 22,000 students are enrolled in these programs, many of whom are specialising in fields directly related to the mechanical engineering and automation industries. Besides these university programs, Schleswig-Holstein excels in vocational training. Over 9,000 students are enrolled in dual vocational training courses focused on mechanical engineering and more than 8,000 in electronics courses. This hands-on approach ensures students are...
Studenten arbeiten in einem Ingenieurlabor an Maschinen.

Key research institutions and initiatives
Fraunhofer Institute for Silicon Technology (ISIT): A leader in the development and integration of micro-mechanical and micro-electronic components, ISIT collaborates closely with industrial companies to push advancements in electronic devices and systems. Institute for Nautical and Maritime Technologies (INMT): With one of Europe’s largest ship simulators, INMT offers advanced training in ship navigation and engineering, providing state-of-the-art facilities for students and researchers focused on maritime technology. Kiel Nano Laboratory (Nanolab): With its cutting-edge cleanroom facilities, Nanolab supports research in nanotechnology, offering advanced tools and capabilities for the development of micro- and nano-electronic systems. Smart Factory FH (Kiel): This research facility...

Any questions?

Standortberaterin Nicole Wallmann
Nicole Wallmann
Investment Consultant
Phone: +49 431 66 66 6 - 876
wallmann@wtsh.de
Beate Zitzlaff, Ansiedlungsberaterin
Beate Zitzlaff
Investment Consultant
Phone: +49 431 66 66 6 - 874
zitzlaff@wtsh.de

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