VET4CHAINS – Work-Based Learning for Sustainable Automotive Value Chains VET

VET4CHAINS – Work-Based Learning for Sustainable Automotive Value Chains

VET4CHAINS is an international cooperation initiative designed to support the transformation of the automotive industry towards more sustainable, digital, and resilient value chains. Bringing together organizations from Europe and Latin America, the project strengthens vocational education and training (VET) systems while promoting innovative Work-Based Learning (WBL) approaches tailored to the evolving needs of the automotive sector.

Led by FIR at RWTH Aachen University in Germany, the project is implemented in collaboration with Center for Science and Technology of Antioquia (CTA) in Colombia, Mexican-German Chamber of Commerce (CAMEXA) in Mexico, and Institute for the Promotion of Development and Training (INFODEF) in Spain. Running from December 2023 until November 2026, the initiative creates a transcontinental platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and educational innovation between industry, research, and vocational training institutions.

The project responds to a growing challenge faced by the global automotive industry. As production systems increasingly shift towards sustainability, digitalization, and Industry 4.0 technologies, companies — especially small and medium-sized enterprises — require new competencies related to digital transformation, sustainability management, circular economy practices, and organizational change. At the same time, vocational education systems must rapidly adapt their methodologies and training content to prepare current and future professionals for these transitions.

To address these challenges, VET4CHAINS develops an international training solution based on Work-Based Learning and aligned with European qualification frameworks such as EQF and ECVET. The project combines applied research, curriculum development, international cooperation, and stakeholder engagement to create more flexible and practice-oriented vocational training models for the automotive sector.

One of the project’s major achievements has been the development of an ECVET curriculum focused on sustainable automotive value chains, alongside the establishment of an international community of practice connecting educators, industry experts, companies, and institutions across Europe and Latin America. The initiative has also identified key training needs and competency requirements necessary for the sustainable transformation of the automotive sector.

In addition, the project collected 32 corporate best practices related to sustainability and Industry 4.0, helping to bridge the gap between industrial innovation and vocational education. Through training activities, competency profile development, and the creation of an open virtual learning environment, VET4CHAINS supports capacity building for both VET professionals and companies operating in the automotive ecosystem.

Beyond its educational dimension, the initiative also promotes stronger international alliances among businesses, educational institutions, and governmental entities. By fostering collaboration across regions and sectors, VET4CHAINS contributes to more sustainable, competitive, and future-oriented automotive ecosystems while laying the foundation for future international cooperation initiatives and educational partnerships.