…small and medium-sized enterprises, the so called SMEs. In this connexion the craftsmen-sector has an overwhelming status. The enterprises act as a highly qualified service provider and suppliers for industry, for other enterprises, for commercial and public customers as well as for private households.

For all these reasons, the examination of the certified German Mastercraftsmen represents the pinnacle of professional training in the skilled labour sector. The prerequisites include an intense three- and-a-half year apprenticeship plus a trained worker phase of several years. In the course of the final exam, the candidate must demonstrate theoretical and practical mastery of the necessary technical skills, business management abilities, employee leadership capabilities and aptitude for training the next generation of apprentices.

Only upon receiving this certification, may the skilled worker operate his own business.

The skilled trades are described by German law. The label "MasterCraftsman" thus provides a guarantee for the best possible professional training, outstanding expertise and superior quality craftsmenship.