Network jobs watch: Hiring, skills and certification trends | Network ...
Network and infrastructure roles continue to shift as enterprises adopt technologies such as AI-driven network operations, multicloud networking, zero trust network access (ZTNA), and SD-WAN. Here’s a recap of some of the latest industry research, hiring statistics, and certification trends that impact today’s network professionals, infrastructure and operations (I&O) leaders, and data center teams. Check back for regular updates.
IT employment trends
IT employment ticked down .05% in August, resulting in the loss of 2,400 jobs, month-over-month, according to an analysis of the high-tech employment market by TechServe Alliance. On a yearly basis, the IT job market shrunk by .33% with a loss of 17,500 positions. Engineering positions saw a more than 1% increase in a year-over-year comparison, adding 29,800 jobs in the same period.
Employee education and training around AI will become more critical as research reveals that a majority of employees do not know how to apply the technology to their jobs. According to Slingshot’s 2024 Digital Work Trends Report, 77% of employees reported that they don’t feel completely trained on the AI tools offered to them, highlighting the need for further training and education in this area.
Unemployment and job market analysis
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data shows a steady decline in the ratio of job openings per unemployed worker, indicating potential rise in unemployment rates. The labor market is showing signs of deterioration according to the latest Indeed Hiring Lab report on the BLS data, with IT professionals also facing challenges in the job market.
Data science certifications
Technology professionals can now validate their data science competencies with CompTIA’s DataX certification program. The program focuses on critical skills for data scientists and is designed for experienced professionals looking to enhance their expertise in the field.
Semiconductor industry challenges
The semiconductor industry is facing a potential labor shortage as demand for skilled workers outpaces availability. McKinsey & Company's report highlights the need for more engineering and technical support professionals in the industry and the challenges of filling these roles.
Empowering tech career paths
CompTIA's new career resources aim to educate individuals about tech-related roles and help them tailor their career paths to align with their skills and experiences. The organization's efforts focus on demystifying tech careers and empowering individuals to pursue opportunities in the technology sector.
