Perception of the industry
Image shift: on applicants’ radar
Employers in the security and defense sector have gained in attractiveness. This is also confirmed by the Universum employer ranking: in 2023, among young professionals in engineering, not a single defense company made it into the ten most attractive employers. A year later, Rheinmetall appeared in 10th place and most recently took fourth. Young talent in the IT field, on the other hand, does not yet seem to have the defense sector on their radar.
A recent study for the European Commission also looked at how students, young professionals as well as current and former employees in defence industry perceive the industry. As many as 58 % of young talent consider a career in this field attractive. Most of those currently working in the industry are satisfied with their job. The perception also seems to have changed in the general population in Germany. A survey by Vincorion and YouGov showed: 39 % of respondents see working in the defense technology industry as an opportunity to make a “contribution to the security of Germany and Europe”.
“Anyone who enjoys sophisticated technology, a dynamic environment and a clear mission can achieve a great deal here.”
Theresa Prietz,
Head of People & Talent Acquisition,
Alpine Eagle GmbH
