TransAC: A Transnational Additive Manufacturing Training Academy to Counter Brain Drain in the Danube Region
This paper presents an ongoing initiative titled "TransAC" (Transnational Academy), a project aimed at mitigating brain drain from rural and crisis-stricken regions in the Danube area through innovative, inclusive, and human-centered training programs. TransAC addresses the dual challenge of demographic decline and skill mismatch by establishing a transnational training academy focused on additive manufacturing (AM). Targeting both young learners at risk of migration and vulnerable populations, the project fosters equitable access to digital and technical education, enhances regional resilience, and promotes sustainable development through stakeholder co-creation. Key outputs include a pilot training center, the establishment of a transnational academy, and direct training of 572 learners. The approach integrates advanced education technologies and social work perspectives, with emphasis on FabLabs, micro-credentials, and blended learning environments.