Project Learning in the electrical trades with AI

The electrical trades in Saxony face a two-pronged challenge: On the one hand, the industry is growing thanks to digitalization, the energy transition, and innovative building technology; on the other hand, there’s a growing shortage of skilled workers and apprentices. Traditional vocational training is reaching its limits – demands are rising, the number of applicants is falling, and the diversity of students is increasing. This is precisely where the project »Learning in the electrical trades with AI« comes in: It aims to fundamentally modernize training and continuing education in the electrical trades and make the learning process more attractive and flexible for all target groups. The focus is on the use of artificial intelligence, which enables personalized learning paths and supports the integration of digital technologies into everyday workplace routines.

Project objectives

The project aims to develop and test an AI-powered learning management system (LMS) specifically for the electrical trades. This system is designed to make it possible to tailor learning content and paths to the individual needs and knowledge levels of learners – whether they’re apprentices, career changers, women in technical professions, or people with an immigrant background. The teaching staff also receive targeted training so that they know how to effectively apply the latest digital learning methods. This fosters a new culture of learning that enhances the appeal of vocational training, increases permeability between educational pathways, and helps companies respond flexibly to changes in the industry.

Finding the solution

At the heart of the program is a modular, AI-powered learning management system that is being developed in collaboration with companies, instructors, and learners. All relevant learning content goes into an ontology-based knowledge database that structures it in a machine-readable format and serves as the foundation for personalized learning paths. Immersive learning tools such as virtual and augmented reality bring complex technical topics to life and boost motivation. Development of the system is agile and user-centered: Companies and learners input their needs and experiences, and the system is continuously adapted and expanded. During the pilot phase, about 30 companies will test the system before it becomes available to all organizations as an open platform.

The end result of the project will be an AI-powered learning management system that is accessible around the clock and can be used flexibly and on an individual basis. Learners will gain access to modular, practical learning content in the areas of energy conversion systems, building systems integration, and charging infrastructure. At least three immersive learning tools will be integrated to make learning even more engaging. Teaching staff will receive comprehensive training, and new, certified partial qualifications will be introduced to facilitate entry into and advancement within the profession. The solutions in development are designed so that they can also be applied to other regions and trades.

The project is coordinated by the Elektrobildungs- und Technologiezentrum e. V. (EBZ) in Dresden and implemented in collaboration with strong partners: Fraunhofer IIS/EAS Dresden contributes its expertise in AI and ontology development; Dresden University of Applied Sciences develops immersive learning media; Bildungszentrum Lernen+Technik ensures the quality of teaching and methodology; and SoftEd Systems is responsible for the technical implementation of the platform. Support for the project comes from regional partners such as the Fachverband Elektro- und Informationstechnik Sachsen, district trade associations, vocational schools, and the Dresden Chamber of Skilled Crafts and Trades. This close collaboration ensures a practical focus and effective knowledge transfer.

Partners: Elektrobildungs- und Technologiezentrum e. V., Bildungszentrum Lernen+Technik gGmbH Dresden, Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS, Engineering of Adaptive Systems EAS, SoftEd Systems Ingenieurgesellschaft für Software mbH, Dresden University of Applied Sciences