Federal action addressing technology skill deficit: prioritizing cybersecurity and programming skills
The UK is taking significant strides to address the tech skills gap, particularly in areas such as coding and cybersecurity. This approach involves innovative workforce strategies, government-backed initiatives, and educational reforms focused on emerging technologies.
- Innovative Workforce Solutions and Skills-Based Hiring
Organisations are being encouraged to monitor emerging skills trends, anticipate future needs through workforce skills audits, and adopt skills-based hiring. This proactive approach helps identify and close skills gaps within the existing workforce [1].
- Government and Industry Collaboration on Cybersecurity Skills
In response to a critical shortage of cyber professionals, initiatives like the White Paper led by De Montfort University in collaboration with government groups are recommending long-term solutions. These steps aim to address the mismatch between industrial ambitions and educational outcomes, and emphasize building a digitally resilient workforce to protect the economy and SMEs from cyber threats [2].
- Focus on High-Demand Specialisations and Adaptability
The UK tech talent market is evolving, with roles in AI integration, DevOps, cybersecurity, and data governance particularly in demand. Employers now prioritize candidates who demonstrate impact, adaptability, and cross-functional communication skills, moving beyond traditional job descriptions and qualifications to focus on business outcomes [3].
- Training and Educational Programmes Emphasizing AI and Emerging Tech
The government has started AI skills training schemes, complemented by corporate programs from companies like Amazon and Google. These initiatives offer hands-on experience, demystify technology, and create clear employment pathways. There is a growing emphasis on integrating AI literacy into school and university curricula, internships, and mentorships, especially targeting underrepresented groups and career switchers to broaden the talent pool [4].
These strategies reflect a multi-pronged approach involving forward-looking talent management by employers, targeted upskilling and reskilling initiatives, and collaborative efforts between government, academia, and industry to build a sustainable pipeline of tech workers capable of meeting the UK’s future digital economy demands.
Interestingly, 75% of employers believe universities are primarily responsible for ensuring employees joining the tech industry are equipped with the right skills [5]. The government is also taking action, planning to treble the number of computer science teachers in schools and introducing a national centre for computing [6].
However, there are still concerns. For instance, 26% of tech workers say their business is missing web development skills, and over 80% of tech companies are struggling to fill cyber security roles [7]. To combat this, over one-third of tech employers (37%) are offering more training in coding, and 44% of tech employers say coding faces the biggest skills gap [8].
Moreover, nearly a third of tech employees feel insufficiently trained in coding, cybersecurity, and cloud migration, and almost one in four (23%) tech workers are not confident in handling a cyber security attack [9]. To retain talented tech talent, employers are offering flexible working (60%) and in-house training (50%) [10].
The Chancellor, Phillip Hammond, has outlined significant investment in IT training in the autumn budget, and the government aims to boost digital skills with the provision of distance learning courses [11]. The government's response to tech industry concerns in the budget, as stated by Dominic Harvey, director of CWJobs, demonstrates the importance of upskilling the next generation of tech employees [12].
References: [1] Tech Nation 2019 Report [2] De Montfort University White Paper [3] Tech Nation 2020 Report [4] Government AI Skills Training Schemes [5] CWJobs Survey [6] Government Announcement on Computer Science Teachers [7] CWJobs Survey [8] CWJobs Survey [9] CWJobs Survey [10] CWJobs Survey [11] Government Autumn Budget Announcement [12] CWJobs Press Release
- To enhance the workforce's adaptability and encourage digital transformation, online learning platforms for personal growth, career development, and skills training in areas like AI, DevOps, cybersecurity, and data governance have gained popularity [13].
- "Policy-and-legislation" plays a crucial role in promoting technology education and self-development by advocating for computing curriculum in schools and supporting further education in emerging technologies [14].
- In the ongoing debate about enhancing the UK's digital economy, political parties focus on "online-education" policies that emphasize lifelong learning, cross-sector skills collaboration, and the eradication of the tech skills gap through continuous training and equal opportunities [15].
- As the tech industry evolves rapidly, "general-news" media outlets report regularly on the latest advancements in technology and the increasing demand for specialised skills, acting as a source of information for job-seekers and employers alike [16].
- Looking forward, prospective tech professionals are encouraged to stay inquisitive about current and emerging technologies, cultivate adaptable skills, seek relevant learning opportunities, and actively engage in community-led discussions and workshops, such as hackathons, to exhibit their problem-solving abilities and grow within the industry [17].
