Workshop in Hungary: Focus on Gen Z and the Values of the Trades

During an exchange and workshop day in Budapest on February 27, 2026, the topics of theOld Virtues, New Workproject were addressed and discussed together. The event took place as part of the EU projectWin4SMEs CoVEand provided an opportunity for a cross-border exchange of experiences on issues related to workplace innovation.

The focus was on the needs of Gen Z, as well as the values of the skilled trades and how these can be adapted to the modern era. There was particularly in-depth discussion about how to raise the profile of skilled trades once again by highlighting their social significance and future prospects.

The discussion revealed that young people today have different expectations regarding the world of work and career development. At the same time, it became clear that many traditional values of the skilled trades—such as reliability, quality, responsibility, a sense of purpose, and personal skill—remain relevant to the younger generation as well, provided they are embedded in an attractive work environment.

Particular emphasis was placed on the question of how to enhance the public perception of the skilled trades. It was stressed that new approaches to communication are needed: a more modern image of the skilled trades, greater visibility, and language that appeals to young people without losing sight of the profession’s core values.

The workshop in Hungary thus highlighted the importance of international exchange on these topics. It is precisely the interplay between traditional values, the new expectations of Gen Z, and innovative approaches in the workplace that generates valuable ideas for the future of the skilled trades.