Partnerships for the Future: Vocational Schools Meet Community Colleges

Project Description

This project facilitates the first connections between German vocational schools and community colleges in the US. Its goal is to establish sustainable exchange programs for apprentices through networking events, workshops, and targeted support. The AHK USA-Chicago actively assists with initial contact and project development.

The Three Pillars

The successful “exchange before the exchange” is the primary objective of the “Partnerships for the future – Vocational Schools Meet Community Colleges: Dialogue on Apprenticeship Exchange” project. Representatives from German vocational schools and US community colleges are given the opportunity to discuss topics relevant to apprentice exchange programs and to get to know each other. In doing so, they can develop a solid transatlantic apprentice exchange program concept together. The structure of an apprentice exchange program is customizable and receives support from the AHK USA-Chicago, especially during the initial development and partner-finding phases. The concrete implementation of a transatlantic apprentice exchange then lies with the vocational schools and community colleges.

1. Finding a Program Partner – Virtual Networking Meetings

Twice a year, the project hosts virtual networking meetings for German vocational schools and US community colleges. These sessions offer instructors a low-barrier way to connect, share ideas, and explore potential apprentice exchange programs. Interactive workshops, breakout rooms, and a web-based map (coming soon!) facilitate finding partners and developing concepts. Schools can present exchange ideas or simply explore possibilities, making it easy to take the first steps toward sustainable transatlantic partnerships.

2. Bilateral Connections – Support for Transatlantic School Partnerships

The project supports German vocational schools and US community colleges in finding partners and building sustainable collaborations. AHK USA-Chicago facilitates connections, advises on project plans and funding applications, and continues to assist partnerships after the initial contact. The goal is to overcome communication barriers, bridge educational systems, and implement concrete exchange projects—from initial matchmaking to moderating virtual meetings.

3. Program Ideas and Best Practices – Virtual Workshops

Participants from German vocational schools and U.S. community colleges collaborate in virtual workshops to develop concrete ideas for transatlantic exchange programs. Experts also share best practices, their experiences with different education systems, and funding opportunities for exchange initiatives.

• Workshop 1: Successfully Planning an Apprentice Exchange – Determine and Develop the Basics
• Workshop 2: Implementing an Exchange with Best Practices Examples from German and US Perspectives
• Workshop 3: School Partners of Apprenticeships – Differences and Similarities DE – USA
• Workshop 4: Intercultural Competencies and Communication during Exchange