Research Results describe areas of competence in detail, and their relation to professional systems and curricula are established. A grid of competences for the professions mechatronics technician and metal cutting technician is developed. By creating the model of a grid of competences, it is possible to compare the contents and profile of qualifications and to evaluate them. In the long run, the traditional obstacles between the different areas of formal education and non-formal and informal learning will be overcome. An open learning environment may be created, which can strengthen the recognition of non-formal and informal learning as opposed to the formal system of general and vocational education.