Join us for a SkiComCu live online training session on the Supply Chain of Copper, developed and delivered by the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) and led by Dr. Michail Samouhos. This session provides a comprehensive overview of the copper value chain, covering everything from mining and resource extraction to processing, recycling, and manufacturing. […]
The SkiComCu project addresses a critical gap in the EU copper industry: the lack of a comprehensive lifelong learning program with sustainability goals that adapts to emerging technological and market challenges across the entire copper production cycle, from mining to recycling. As the sector moves toward a green and digital transition, professionals need specialized knowledge […]
SkiComCu is creating accessible training paths for anyone who wants to enter or advance in the copper and raw materials sector. Through modular learning and VR tools, the project supports women in STEM, young job seekers, newcomers to the field, and other groups that often face barriers in technical careers. The SkiComCu project addresses a […]
The copper industry faces growing challenges in workforce development. At the recent DIM ESEE Conference: Development and Innovations in Mineral Resourcing in Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, held at the Inter University Centre (IUC) in Dubrovnik, KGHM CUPRUM represented the SkiComCu project, sharing recent research on the evolving training needs of copper sector employees.
During the ADRIA Education Day, Malwina Kobylańska presented the latest findings from SkiComCu, focusing on competency gaps in the context of digitalization and environmental transformation. The study, funded by EIT RawMaterials, highlights the urgent need to address skills shortages in a sector critical for Europe’s sustainable future.
Results will guide the development of training topics and materials tailored to the real need of copper sector companies.
“This research is essential for preparing the workforce for the dual challenge of digital transformation and environmental responsibility,” said Kobylańska.
As Europe accelerates its green transition, the copper industry’s ability to adapt hinges on equipping employees with future-ready skills. Initiatives like SkiComCu foster collaboration and innovation across the raw materials sector, ensuring sustainable growth.
We look forward to continuing this dialogue at the next DIM ESEE Conference in October 2026.
On November 6, SkiComCu joined the 10th edition of the Greek Raw Materials Community Dialogue, organized by EIT RawMaterials Greece Representative. This special anniversary event celebrated a decade of impact under the theme: “Fostering a Strong and Innovative Raw Materials Industry.”
As Europe moves toward a green and digital transition, the dialogue brought together key stakeholders to reflect on progress and shape the future of raw materials.
We participated in the poster sessions, showcasing our latest results and contributions to copper sector innovation. As part of this event, our coordinator, ElvalHalcor – Copper & Alloys Extrusion Division, joined Panel 3: “Shaping the Raw Materials Future Together: Workforce Transformation and Public Acceptance”, sharing how the industry is preparing for tomorrow’s challenges as well as introducing our lifelong learning course designed to empower professionals for a sustainable copper future.
(Credits: Paterakis Photos, Paterakis Dionisios)
This action was part of Milestone 6.3 – Execution of Events and Open Days, integrated into SkiComCu’s Info Day, where participants discovered through the poster presentation and flyer distribution, helping attendees explore the project’s role in education and the evolving copper landscape, specifically:
✅ Updates on our training platform
✅ Innovative XR tools for copper industry learning
✅ Insights from the partners NTUA and ElvalHalcor – Copper & Alloys Extrusion Division.
👉 Want to learn more about SkiComCu?
🔗 Follow us on social media @skicomcu for updates on copper innovation and lifelong learning!
We are pleased to invite you to the second SkiComCu Info Day, taking place online on October 30th, 2025. This webinar will present the latest developments in the SkiComCu Lifelong Learning Course, a European initiative designed to strengthen skills and competences across the copper sector.
The course includes modules on technical knowledge, sustainability, health and safety, and soft skills related to the whole life of the copper production, from mining to recycling.
During this session, you’ll discover updates about the training platform, explore new XR tools developed for copper industry learning, and hear directly from the project partners including UPM, NTUA, ELVALHALCOR, and AURUBIS.
Register here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/qfrEPhvnfi
Stay tuned for more events and follow us on social media @skicomcu.
We look forward to welcoming you!
On October 8 and 9, SkiComCu held its 4th Plenary Meeting, hosted by AURUBIS, in the capital of Bulgaria, Sofia. The meeting brought together partners, both physically and online, for two days of collaboration, content creation and catch up about the current state of the project.
During this two-days meeting, every WP leader presented their most recent tasks, their work on deliverables and next steps. Gathering together helped with the update of upcoming event that will be made by partners from the project, as well as participating in relevant ones related to raw materials. Being together was specially relevant too for the creation of content materials, including photos, videos and interviews to all the partners that attended physically. This will help with the dissemination and communication of our goals and achievements to the target audience.
During the second day, the partners from AURUBIS organised a visit to their facilities where everyone learned about some parts of the copper recycling process in detail. It was a fascinating and informative experience that helped memebers to understand about more sustainable industrial practices.
Collaborating in this meeting allowed all members of the project to share their challenges and concerns, align on the current work plan, and refine strategies moving forward. It also reinforced the importance of open communication and active contribution across the team.
Thank you to AURUBIS for hosting us and to all participants that contributed making this meeting productive and enriching.
Stay tuned for more updates and the upcoming materials from the event!
We are excited to announce the successful completion and positive evaluation by EIT RawMaterials of the first three deliverables from Work Package 2.
This report presents the results of a comprehensive study on skills gaps among employees in the copper industry. Using a combination of desk research, online surveys and focus group interviews, the study identifies key professional skills and social competences essential for boosting innovation in the Cu sector.
It emphasizes the integration of Industry 4.0 & 5.0, the green transition, and the circular economy into workforce strategies across RIS regions.
Building on the findings of Deliverable 2.1, this report outlines a competence framework tailored to the evolving needs of the Cu sector. It highlights the skills and capabilities required to embrace digital transformation, support sustainable practices and drive innovation and competitiveness
This serves as a tool for aligning workforce development with future industrial demands.
Looking ahead, Deliverable 2.3 introduces a 10-year foresight strategy for the Cu sector, developed through Delphi surveys, Backcasting and Roadmapping.
The report delivers two complementary roadmaps:
Each roadmap includes actions and timelines to guide the sector toward a more resilient, innovative, and sustainable future by 2035.
More information about the deliverables and complete reports on the title link or in the Work Packages section.
The latest publication on the project results, “Trends in Changes in Competency Expectations Towards Employees in the Copper Sector”, presents key findings on skills gaps identified within the copper sector across RIS (Regional Innovation Scheme) territories. These insights stem from analyses conducted under the project ‘SkiComCu – Lifelong Learning Course for Skills & Competences in the Copper Sector’, funded by EIT RawMaterials.
The research highlights a comprehensive set of technical skills and social competences essential for the copper industry, with a strong focus on addressing challenges related to Industry 4.0 and 5.0, the clean transition, and the circular economy.
Using foresight methodologies—including the Delphi method, backcasting, and roadmapping—the study delivers an integrated forecast of future competence needs across the entire copper value chain.
They reveal that automation, AI, and immersive technologies are transforming job roles, while ESG standards and green investments are redefining business priorities. As a result, the sector faces growing demand for digital, social, and cognitive skills.
Stay tuned to explore how these changes will impact the future of the copper industry and for updates on our activities!
SkiComCu will be attending the Raw Materials Summit 2025, taking place in May 13–15, Brussels.
Hosted by EIT RawMaterials, this annual summit brings together policymakers, industry leaders, investors, and innovators to shape the future of Europe’s raw materials landscape. It’s a key platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and showcasing forward-thinking projects.
At the event, SkiComCu will have dedicated information materials available, offering insights into the project’s activities, and progress. Whether you’re curious to learn more or looking to connect, we invite you to pass by and engage with us.
We look forward to share our work and contribute to a more sustainable raw materials future in Europe. Stay tuned for updates on our activities!
👩🔬⚙️This 8M, we highlight the need and importance of opening real opportunities for women in technical and industrial careers
Watch our “Copper Without Barriers” video and stay tuned for the next events and news about the project!
🎥
📖👩💻Building future skills for an inclusive copper industry.
SkiComCu offers training linked to Industry 4.0 & 5.0, the green transition, and circular economy.
📽️Watch the campaign video on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/QbydRflWTA0?si=pQeBOeUlXMSBa50f
📖👩💻Building future skills for an inclusive copper industry.
SkiComCu offers training linked to Industry 4.0 & 5.0, the green transition, and circular economy.
📽️Watch the campaign video on YouTube:
