SHK master: requirements, costs, opportunities

The principle of apprentice, journeyman and master has existed for centuries and continues to shape craftsmanship in Germany today. Although in the Middle Ages, during the time of the guilds, acquiring the title of master was much more important, it still plays an important role today. And right now there are enough reasons to take the next step as a journeyman and become a master in the SHK trade. Why? We will be happy to explain it to you.

Higher qualifications and recognitions

The master’s degree as a systems mechanic for plumbing, heating and air conditioning technology is a reward for the highest level of technical competence and leadership ability. It not only certifies a wide range of technical knowledge – from modern heating systems to drinking water hygiene and building management technology – but also entrepreneurial, legal and educational skills. Significant benefits for you as a SHK master:

• Safer planning: Even complex systems are thought out and approved down to the smallest detail.
• More responsibility: Lead teams and manage complex projects – in the office and on construction sites.
• Secure young talents in your company: The aptitude test for instructors (AEVO) is often integrated into the master course (alternatively it can also be carried out separately).
• More confidence: Better external impact among customers, real estate developers and public customers.
• Most promising orders: Access to larger tenders and special orders.

Better salary as SHK master

As an SHK master, not only does the responsibility increase, but also the salary. With the title you will take on tasks such as calculation, construction and project management, personnel quality and responsibility. In other words, tasks that are typically paid higher in the company. The size of the salary increase depends on the region, the collective labor agreement, the specialization and the size of the company.

An example based on the starting salary: Since 1 January 2025, in the tariff zone of Lower Saxony, a basic salary of 2,031 euros gross per month applies for technicians in the SHK sector (salary group T1). At 3,967 euros gross per month, the basic salary for masters (master group M1) is almost double. This is based on a current pay scale from IG Metall¹ which negotiates tariffs for the SHK industry in Lower Saxony. However it is important to note: Depending on the company destination (K/T salary groups, standard salary, allowances), the actual starting values ​​may differ, so there may be minor differences.

First step towards independence

The master craftsman certificate is often the basis for independence in the industry. As soon as you have it, you will be able to officially operate a SHK company that requires approval by entering it in the register of craftsmen and, provided that you are qualified as a trainer according to AEVO, train your specialists.

Since business basics are also an essential part of master school, you know exactly what challenges and opportunities self-employment brings with it and how you can master them to your advantage from a business point of view. All of this forms the foundation for the growth and scalability of your SHK operations.

Well positioned for the future

The SHK master’s degree makes you well suited for the coming years: professionally, economically and organizationally. A look at the current situation in the sector shows that with your own SHK master business you have the best chances for the future: There is currently a strong demand for craftsmen – driven, among other things, by the energy transition – while at the same time there is a growing shortage of skilled labor.

Not only is there a lack of new qualified workers: according to information from the government coalition, 125,000 artisan businesses will have to be sold due to their age in the next few years². This means that they must be taken up or continued by someone. It is possible that one or two companies will not survive this generational change and that the market environment will change. This is why it is even more important that you invest in your future now and position yourself in the best possible way.