An interview with Marc Marthaler, Managing Director, ICT-Berufsbildung Schweiz
What role does vocational training play in Switzerland’s cyber resilience, and how can we address specific weaknesses?
Vocational training plays a fundamental role in Switzerland’s cyber resilience. Without well-trained specialists, cyber threats cannot be effectively managed. Specialized profiles such as cybersecurity specialists and information security managers are needed. At the same time, it is crucial to raise awareness of cyber risks and teach basic skills in basic vocational training—in all occupational fields.
Is it enough to train new specialists, or should we also equip existing job profiles with more AI and cyber skills?
It is imperative to expand existing job profiles with AI and cyber skills. The digital transformation affects almost all industries – accordingly, traditional professions must also be equipped with the necessary skills to deal with new technologies safely and efficiently. In the field of cybersecurity in particular, humans are often the biggest gateway for attacks. That is why comprehensive awareness-raising and training is needed, not only among specialists, but throughout the entire working world.
What skills does the professional world need when dealing with AI, and how does this change vocational training?
AI skills will be a basic requirement in most professions in the future. These include an understanding of AI systems, the responsible handling of data, and the ability to use AI-supported tools sensibly. Vocational training must evolve accordingly and new offerings must be added. In higher vocational education, for example, we are doing this with the new federal AI Business Specialist certificate, which is currently being developed.
How can vocational education and training respond more agilely to technological developments such as AI and new cyber threats?
Switzerland already has a strong foundation with its dual education system. Through greater flexibility, closer cooperation with industry, and the use of digital learning methods, vocational education and training can respond more quickly to technological changes. It is crucial that all stakeholders—from vocational schools to companies to policymakers—work closely together.
How can young people and career changers be attracted to cybersecurity professions and retained in the long term?
A flexible and practical entry-level program is key. It should take into account different levels of prior knowledge and life circumstances, offer attractive development prospects, and provide access to further training.
How can companies actively contribute to promoting cyber and AI skills in vocational training?
Through practical training, close cooperation, and active involvement, companies can make a significant contribution to ensuring that Swiss vocational training in the field of AI and cybersecurity remains fit for the future. Close cooperation with vocational schools, associations, and the public sector is important in order to exploit synergies. An important first step is the willingness to offer sufficient apprenticeships and enable in-service training.
What is currently working well in the collaboration between education, business, and government? Where do you see potential for improvement?
The collaboration is well established, as evidenced not least by the international recognition of the Swiss education system. Nevertheless, there is room for improvement: processes are often too slow, and innovation is sometimes stifled. More agile cooperation and faster implementation would be desirable. As a national professional organization (OdA), we must also ensure that we have broad, sustainable, and independent funding in the coming years.
