German engineering meets global perspectives: Liebherr-Aerospace Lindenberg GmbH is showing how international training can help counter the ongoing shortage of skilled workers in Germany. In partnership with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and its PAM programme (“Partnerships for development-oriented training and labour migration”), Liebherr is fostering the integration of young professionals from around the world.
Global Talent Meets German Expertise
One inspiring example is Victoria Santacruz from Ecuador. Through the PAM programme, she connected with Liebherr and completed her training as an industrial mechanic at the company’s Lindenberg site.
Her journey began in Ecuador, where she learned about the PAM initiative — a programme that links motivated young people abroad with German companies in need of apprentices and skilled workers. After demonstrating her German language proficiency and successfully passing the standard application process, Victoria was accepted into Liebherr’s training programme.
During her training, she developed expertise in manufacturing device components, mastering turning, milling, assembly, and system maintenance. Her talent and commitment allowed her to shorten her training period, and she was offered a permanent position with Liebherr shortly after completion.
PAM Programme: A Model for Sustainable Workforce Development
Since its launch in 2019, the PAM programme has been advancing fair and development-oriented migration pathways, helping German companies fill critical skill gaps while creating professional opportunities for international candidates.
To date, more than 2,000 participants have taken part in the programme or are currently in training. Companies like Liebherr benefit not only from filling vacancies but also from the diversity, innovation, and intercultural exchange that international collaboration brings.
“Our partnership with GIZ and the PAM programme reflects our belief that skilled migration can be a win–win for everyone — for companies, for trainees, and for global development,” said a Liebherr-Aerospace spokesperson. “Victoria’s success story shows how talent, when nurtured across borders, can lead to long-term growth and integration.”
A Sustainable Path Forward
As industries worldwide face growing challenges in recruiting technical specialists, Liebherr’s experience underscores how international training partnerships can offer a sustainable and human-centered solution. By opening pathways for skilled talent from abroad, companies not only secure their future workforce but also strengthen their role as global, inclusive employers.
