Workforce Training Expands to Meet European Skills Gaps
As firms struggle with labor shortages, workers may see more opportunities for professional development and training.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Employment
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BusinessEurope is calling on the European Union to bridge persistent skills gaps as companies increasingly lean on continuous staff training to remain competitive. The effort aims to align workforce capabilities with the demands of the digital and green transitions.
Why it matters
Skills mismatches and demographic shifts are limiting productivity, while high energy costs continue to squeeze household budgets across the region. Strengthening job quality and training is essential for sustaining long-term wage growth and financial security for workers.
Currently, 82% of surveyed companies rely on continuous staff training to address skills gaps. The European Union has set an official target for 60% of adults to participate in training programs by 2030.
The players
BusinessEurope
An advocacy group that represents the European business community and works to influence regional economic policy.
European Commission
The executive branch of the European Union responsible for proposing legislation like the forthcoming Quality Jobs Act.
Deloitte
A professional services firm that conducts research and market analysis on workforce challenges for global employers.
The details
Companies are addressing severe labor shortages by integrating flexible, modular learning and updated curricula into their daily operations. By shifting focus toward targeted professional development, firms aim to improve employee motivation and reduce turnover. These efforts seek to counter the pressures of the green and digital transitions, which require workers to constantly acquire new competencies to maintain their productivity and earning potential.
Timeline
Job quality across the European Union improved during the decade between 2016 and 2026.
The European Employment and Social Outlook report was released in 2026.
The European Union aims to meet its adult training goal by 2030.
Money Landscape
This focus on workforce training follows the 2026 European Employment and Social Outlook report, which documented a decade of progress in job quality and security. It sits against a backdrop of high energy prices that continue to exert significant pressure on household income.
Workers may see more opportunities for employer-sponsored training as firms increase investment to address skills gaps. If you are exploring career changes, verify if your current or prospective employer offers modular learning programs that align with the EU's evolving digital and green standards.
The takeaway
Productivity gains through better job quality are becoming a central focus for European employers navigating a tight labor market. Individuals should track upcoming changes from the Quality Jobs Act, as these may impact future benefits and workplace requirements.
Further reading
For more information on labor market trends, visit our Employment section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by EU Reporter.
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