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The evolution of tech talent: A new take on traditional qualifications

Staffing Stream

The evolution of tech talent: A new take on traditional qualifications

James McLaughlin
| February 19, 2024
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No degree? No problem. The foundations required for a career in tech are rapidly shifting, and so is the need for a traditional university qualification.

When it comes to finding top talent, employers are increasingly expanding their view beyond academic credentials and focusing instead on a more skills-centric approach. This approach reflects the growing recognition of diverse capabilities and soft skills as vital components of success in the tech sector — recognition that is especially important as AI and automation reshape the technical skills and knowledge needed in the industry.

These changes to role requirements are challenging the long-held belief that university degrees are a necessity for a career in tech, signaling a new direction in talent acquisition which forces us to rethink what people need to know when entering their first tech role.

New Tech, New Skills

Rapid advancements in generative AI are already drastically changing the skills required to work in the tech sector. The World Economic Forum supports this reality, predicting that 44% of core skills needed in the workforce will change in the next few years. This emphasizes the growing importance of adaptability, creative thinking and the ability to effectively leverage AI.

With that in mind, we can no longer solely rely on traditional education pathways and three-year degree programs. The tech industry demands a more dynamic and versatile training approach, one that can keep up with the continuously changing technological landscape.

Closing the Gap 

As AI technology becomes increasingly integrated into business operations, it’s creating a capability gap, particularly in entry-level roles where education intersects with practical experience. Aspiring tech professionals are faced with a new reality where the skills learned in a traditional academic setting may no longer align with the demands of the workplace.

So, how do we prepare aspiring tech professionals for this new reality?

The answer lies in a more integrated, skills-based approach to talent acquisition that sees individuals with the aptitude to succeed in tech identified, hired and continually upskilled through rapid training programs.

This approach combines the foundational knowledge of education with the practical hands-on experience of working. It also focuses on the development of specific, relevant technical skills and creates more opportunities for individuals from non-traditional education or employment backgrounds.

Practically, implementing a skills-based approach requires a fundamental re-think of the hiring process. Firstly, rather than looking at a one-page CV, candidates are screened through psychometric and aptitude testing which identifies propensity for problem-solving, critical thinking and versatility. Secondly, those with the right aptitude are trained in the specific areas required for business success — whether that’s in generative AI, cyber security, data or all of the above. Lastly, people are placed into roles where they’re offered the chance to continually learn and grow, enabling them to contribute to the development of new solutions, enhance existing processes and drive technological advancements.

PREMIUM CONTENT: February 2024 Jobs Report

Are Degrees Still Worth It?

The concept of university degrees being a prerequisite for career success is being called into question. Employers are increasingly recognizing that the completion of a degree, while valuable, does not necessarily mean that candidates have all the skills needed for the job. As a result, skills-based employment is becoming a more effective method of identifying talent, future-proofing capabilities and diversifying workforces.

Adapting to the Tech Talent Evolution

As the tech industry shifts towards skill-based hiring, we’re entering an era where organizations are benefiting from a new wave of talent that is agile, fast-learning and able to think critically and solve problems on the fly. As these people evolve in their careers, the ability to quickly gain new skills and adapt to changing role requirements will help them use AI to its full potential and keep pace with new technology trends.

While degrees maintain their importance in many areas of the workforce, they’re no longer the only key to unlocking a tech career. There is a new pathway for adaptable, willing learners to build lucrative and future-proof careers, regardless of their education or employment background.