Tech talent drives innovation in digital infrastructure

The shallow tech talent pool is an ongoing issue for digital infrastructure organisations. Staff shortages can endanger business continuity and the ability to provide reliable services to customers. A key contributor to this persistent and significant tech skills gap is a lack of interest in the digital infrastructure sector as a career. In previous Telehouse research, more than half (51%) of IT decision-makers were found to believe that interest in working in the sector is low. While there are number of potential reasons for this, 63% highlighted a lack of diversity and inclusion within IT teams as a concern.

The UK government’s vision of becoming a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) adoption relies on addressing these skills shortages. Without sufficient tech talent, achieving this goal and driving forward emerging technologies becomes increasingly difficult.

The biggest IT skills gaps

The areas facing the most significant skills gaps in the IT industry include:

  • Artificial intelligence – Skilled professionals are needed to integrate scalable, real-world AI deployments that are bias-free and factor in ethical considerations
  • Cloud – Professionals need the skills to effectively manage cloud integrations in a cost-effective and secure way, with the right governance policies to ensure compliance
  • Cyber Security – There is a shortage of experts skilled in identifying and neutralising threats before they cause damage, alongside securing IoT devices, AI systems, and blockchain platforms
  • Data centre management – There is a need for professionals that can design and manage energy-efficient data centres with strong disaster recovery and business continuity plans
  • Connectivity / networks – Skills are needed to manage the transition from traditional to software-defined networks, alongside 5G infrastructure and cyber security, leveraging the right partners in the process

Strategies for addressing the IT skills gap

Companies are acutely aware of the tech and IT talent gap, and are taking measures to close them. According to Telehouse research:

  • 35% of decision-makers are running internal training programs
  • 34% are investing in external training initiatives
  • 35% are turning to external experts for recruitment help
  • 29% are investing in advanced tools to improve efficiency of understaffed teams

However, the most popular strategy to attract new talent is the facilitation of flexible working arrangements (38%), closely followed by opportunities for career advancement and an emphasis on work-life balance (35%).

Finally, a bigger focus on developing transferable skills will also go a long way in remedying the shortage, and allow businesses to adopt emerging tech early.

Telehouse data centres & colocation

Leaning on the specialist human skills of cloud and colocation data centre providers, such as Telehouse, as well as remote hands services, will help to plug the tech skills gap, but also support organisations in upskilling and training their staff. Teams are able to learn from experienced technicians to gain insights into best practices. Find out more about our services here.