This article is part of our series highlighting the regional partners of the Automotive Skills Alliance (ASA). Today, we turn the spotlight on the Grand Est region — a major player in France’s industry and a committed supporter of ASA’s mission.
The Grand Est region, with its 5.5 million inhabitants and covering 57,441 km², stands as a true European crossroads. It is the only French region to border four countries — Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg and Switzerland — making it a strategic hub for cross-border cooperation and economic exchange. Representing 8.3% of France’s population, with 30% under the age of 25, Grand Est combines youthful energy with a strong industrial heritage, offering a unique foundation for growth and innovation.
A Region of Industrial Strength and European Ambition
As France’s second largest industrial region, Grand Est is an engine of competitiveness and innovation. It is home to numerous industrial clusters and competitiveness hubs, fostering collaboration across mobility, energy, and manufacturing. The regional authority pursues an ambitious strategy across its areas of competence — from transport and regional planning to education, training, culture, and health. Its objective: to make Grand Est a forward-looking and attractive region, spearheading Europe’s industrial, digital, energy, and ecological transitions.
Employment and Innovation at the Core
To meet the challenges of global competition and rapid transformation, Grand Est promotes competitiveness, innovation, and support for businesses, while seizing opportunities to expand partnerships. The region capitalises on its strategic location, strong talent base, and network of clusters to drive sustainable growth.
Collaboration with the Automotive Skills Alliance
The Grand Est region is a proud partner of the Automotive Skills Alliance (ASA), sharing a commitment to preparing Europe’s workforce for the twin green and digital transitions. Through this collaboration, the region contributes to ASA’s mission of building an inclusive, innovative skills ecosystem for the mobility sector.
A standout example was the June 2024 Study Visit, which brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and training providers to tackle transition challenges. Hosted jointly by Region Grand Est, Renault Sovab, and the André Citroën Vocational School, the event featured networking, facility tours, and direct exchanges with students and trainers. This initiative, building on the Pact for Skills, demonstrated how regional strengths and ASA’s European vision combine to create practical solutions for the twin transition.
A Region at the Heart of Europe’s Future
With its industrial excellence, youthful population, and strong European orientation, Grand Est is ideally positioned to lead the transformations shaping the future of mobility and manufacturing. In close cooperation with ASA and through active involvement in European projects, the region is ensuring that its workforce and industries are not only ready for change but actively driving it.
For more information about Grand Est Region
Visit Website: Accueil – GrandEst
Contact: Maxi FENDRICH – Chargée de mission – Maxi.FENDRICH@grandest.fr