The issue of skilled labor shortages is not new, but it is particularly acute in the wake of digitalization. The urgency to meet the IT industry's demand for qualified computer scientists and IT consultants is great. A sustainable solution has long been elusive. Startup founders are also severely affected by the shortage of skilled workers. A guest article by Philipp Leipold
A Bitkom study shows that 651 of the 250 startup founders surveyed consider it particularly difficult to hire qualified IT experts. Developers and programmers, in particular, are desperately sought after in the startup scene. One reason for the shortage of IT experts is the outdated nerd image, which must evolve into digital all-rounders. But training and continuing education also need to be addressed. The increasingly popular principle of accelerated learning is one approach here.
55,000 unfilled IT positions — and the number is rising
Qualified IT specialists are in higher demand than ever on the German labor market. This is due to the advancing, cross-sector digitalization.
One current study by the IT industry association Bitkom shows that 55,000 positions in the IT and telecommunications sector went unfilled last year, and the number of IT professionals missing will continue to rise. Large corporations like Daimler and BMW are resorting to a simple but expensive solution: They are hiring IT experts from abroad.
Small and medium-sized businesses, on the other hand, fear for their competitiveness, which depends significantly on their digital future. Ensuring widespread digitalization requires a rethink of existing work structures and a new training and continuing education culture.
Accelerated learning, an innovative method for conveying complex content in a short period of time, is a first, promising approach towards compact and well-founded knowledge transfer.
Accelerated Learning — Become an IT expert in 12 weeks
Compared to multi-year computer science degree programs, participants in accelerated learning programs complete their studies in just twelve weeks. A mix of practice-oriented teaching units, consolidation of acquired knowledge through teamwork, and continuous feedback from the instructors prepares graduates for responsible IT positions.
During their training, they acquire extensive knowledge and can immediately begin working as IT consultants upon completion. This short training program offers career starters, but primarily those changing careers, the opportunity to explore a completely new professional field in just twelve weeks and then support companies with their in-depth digital knowledge. This applies regardless of their previous position.
Motivation as the key to success
A rethink is needed not only in the IT training and development sector. The recruitment process is also undergoing a transformation, breaking down old structures in application procedures. While a comprehensive CV with clear career progression was long considered a showcase application at renowned companies, the motivation of potentially suitable candidates is playing an increasingly important role today.
Accelerated learning programs in the IT sector also rely on motivation-based, primarily anonymous selection processes. This enables anyone interested in a responsible, future-oriented job to pursue further training. At the same time, it offers businesses a more effective short-term opportunity to advance digitalization in Germany with qualified IT personnel.
This is a development and an approach that also benefits startups. Career changers, IT newbies, and experienced applicants with diverse experience are given the opportunity to make a fresh start in the IT industry. Who knows? Perhaps the shortage of skilled workers in the startup scene and in the economy will soon be a thing of the past. It would be a great hope!
About the author
Philipp Leipold is Managing Director of Academy Germany GmbH, a school for adults with a focus on accelerated learning based in Munich.
