The skills crisis enveloping Scotland’s digital technologies sector is growing.
Research by industry body ScotlandIS found strong demand for new digital savvy recruits from the private sector, but a significant shortage of talent to fill them despite higher average pay levels.
The report also highlighted a lack of women employed in the sector, with just 18% of roles held by females compared with 48% in the wider economy.
ScotlandIS said attracting more women into the sector could go a long way towards closing the skills gap.
The annual review states: “12,800 digital technologies jobs are created every year, partly in response to people retiring from or leaving the industry but also through growing demand for these skills.
“However, not enough college and university leavers, apprentices and career changers enter the labour market to keep up with this demand.
“For example, of 4,381 computing science graduates leaving Scottish universities in 2014/15, only 73% moved into employment.”
ScotlandIS chief executive Polly Purvis said the results painted a picture of a thriving digital tech sector.
“The overwhelming majority of respondents are optimistic about the year ahead and are forecasting business growth,” she said.
“This is good news not just for our industry but the country as a whole as more jobs are created and investment increases across the sector.”
However, she said staff recruitment and retention was a major issue.
“For graduates and apprentices, both from here and abroad, there is an exceptional opportunity to forge a career in an exciting and expanding market. In addition, the increasing emphasis on the importance of closing the gender gap means minds are focusing on ways to encourage women to join or return to careers in the industry.”
business@thecourier.co.uk