Canadian Students in Demand for IT Careers

OTTAWA, Oct. 29 /CNW Telbec/ - Canada needs more graduates with world-class information age skills if it hopes to remain competitive in the information and communications technology sector. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business estimates that there are currently 300,000 unfilled skilled jobs in small and medium-sized businesses. In addition, a report published by the Canadian eBusiness Initiative found that 200,000 Canadian small and medium sized businesses could not find the skilled employees needed to meet their business demands.

The demand for skilled workers in the high-tech and information technology sectors remains high. Last year in Canada, economists say there was a potential for 60,000 career jobs in Information Technology (IT), but there were only about 4,500 new graduates with the skills to fill those positions. Thirty-six per cent of manufacturing companies in Ontario reported slowed growth as a result of missing technological expertise, citing a strong need for computer specialists.

The evolving demographics of the workforce means that by 2011, 44% of population will be over 45 and the Canadian youth population will have decreased to 13.2%. The result will be more opportunities and varied career paths. Skills will rapidly become obsolete and will have to be updated regularly. An ability to be flexible and learn new skills will be crucial. (Statistics Canada, Perspective on Labour and Income, Summer 2000).

That's why the Software Human Resource Council has created the DiscoverIT.org website. Unveiled at a special luncheon reception today at the downtown Ottawa Marriott Hotel, the DiscoverIT.org website is designed to attract young people into the exciting world of IT. Students can explore their own skills while learning first-hand what careers in IT are all about. At DiscoverIT, students can check out real careers. They can see where the jobs are now and where they are going.

For more information contact Paul D. Swinwood, President SHRC, (613) 237-8551 Ext. 133, FAX (613) 230-3490, Email: p.swinwood@shrc.ca; Software Human Resource Council / Conseil des resources humaines du logiciel www.shrc.ca