The Dilemmas of Flexibilisation of Vocational Education and Training: A Case Study of the Piano Makers

Context: Dual VET systems are often praised for their labour market proximity because of economic stakeholders’ involvement. However, when requirements change rapidly, a lack flexibility is attributed to them. This occurs in times fast socio-technological like the current digital transformation. A repeatedly proposed measure increase system reduce number occupations and create broader occupational profiles, example, by combining similar into so-called fields. little known about actually establishing fields.Approach: Against this backdrop, we address following research question: How was an field created? As Switzerland attempted merge over decade ago, selected information-rich illuminative case concerning The piano makers’ occupation as one first required called musical instrument makers together with organ builders wind makers. Based on qualitative study, reconstruct process construction expert interviews comprehensive document analysis present its narrative.Findings: contribute understanding flexibilisation detailing creation identifying opportunities challenges. Here, pay special attention institutional work affected association identify importance preserving collective identity. Although regulatory changes disrupted occupation, reinstitutionalised it part field. Over later, reintroduced former title, which deeply connected Conclusion: results indicate that reforms promote creating fields encounter serious limitations collectively governed dual systems. In Swiss system, associations core actors rely members’ voluntary work. To maintain these necessary commitment VET, identity, symbolized long-standing needs be preserved.