The chambers are self-governing bodies with public status and are charged under law with the supervision of vocational training, the organisation of examinations and the granting of master diplomas and proficiency certificates for all trainees within their city. The Cologne Chamber has nearly 28,000 member companies (membership is a State requirement for employers).

The Chamber runs a large skills centre in which they arrange additional job specfic training as well as advanced technical and management courses. The courses are designed to be of a practical content.

The Chamber also provides information services, business and legal advice, accountancy services and represents its members interests within local, regional and federal authorities.

A key element for the trainees completing their training is to learn about training in other countries and a visit to Great Britain is arranged by the Chamber. EKGTA co-ordinates the programme in Scotland with North West Training Council providing the English perspective.