Mind the gap! Yes, be prepared to take a big step to get over Scotland’s major digital skills deficit.
The bottom line is our country needs thousands of entrants to leap forward into digital technology professions every year.
This is especially true in the realm of long-term cyber security.
And that’s why the new Cyber Resilience Skills Plan aims to make cyber talents an integral part of the nation’s long-term learning and development.
As well as highlighting action areas for education, the public sector and business, there will be £20,000 bursaries available for teachers studying STEM skills.
Oh, and there will also be a promotional ‘cyber bus’, which sounds fantastic – like a grand tourer dreamed up for Blade Runner.
It’s hoped the series of initiatives led by the Scottish Government will ensure our cyber resilience increases and we attract more teachers with the skills to pass on the message we all need to stay digitally secure.
Another way to combat the digital skills gap is through apprenticeships.
These can encompass a wide range of in-demand tech and IT skills, including cyber security and software development.
Modern IT-based apprenticeship roles give young people and absolute beginners the chance to gain work experience while earning.
These are not only great opportunities for the applicants – employers win, too, by making maximum use of fresh talent who bring energy and game-changing ideas.
According to Skills Development Scotland, 89% of employers in Scotland would heartily recommend taking up apprenticeships within their industries.
Similarly, 88% believe apprentices are vital to business and workforce development, while a whopping 96% rubber stamp the apprenticeship model by confirming their belief apprentices are more able to do their job.
Apprenticeships in technology can take various forms.
Foundation apprenticeship
A foundation apprenticeship can be taken alongside other subjects, which makes it attractive to those leaving school and keen to get a head start in the world of tech. It offers the chance to learn a wide base of new skills.
Graduate apprenticeship
Graduate apprenticeship jobs are perfect for anyone who wants to climb towards a degree in digital. A top-tier qualification is a huge bonus, too, if you want to go on ad make your name with major league tech companies.
If you’d like to join the new wave of digital pros, take a look at the roles in IT on s1jobs.