How does the image that young people have of skilled trades influence their professional orientation and choice of career? In the dissertation, the author analyses and evaluates a survey of almost 2,000 male and female school pupils. The results show that many young people have an outdated image of skilled trades. Having the wrong impression leads them to perceive the jobs as unattractive. They underestimate the degree of technical innovations in trade. Till Mischler categorises the results of his empirical study into the redevelopment of the structures of the (vocational) education system. Against the background of the lack of trainees in areas of trade, he discusses strategies to solve the problem.