Fife College pushes to fill skills gap in digital sector

Fife College (@fifecollege) is encouraging those looking for a new start to consider a career in the digital sector in order to fill the current skills gap.

The growth of the digital industry in Scotland has continued throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, meaning that around 13,000 jobs are being created yearly in the sector.

However labour market statistics show that only 5,000 new recruits are being produced through further and higher education routes, or through modern apprenticeships.

According to Scotland IS, 75 per cent of employers are currently experiencing difficulties in recruiting qualified staff, despite the average wage sitting at £36,900 – 26 per cent higher than the Scottish average.

The College is determined to help fill these new roles, and is offering training across a range of courses starting in August this year.

They cover subjects such as computer games development, digital and web design, mobile applications development and a range of courses in computing.

Stewart McDonald, the Faculty Director of Creative Industries at Fife College said:

“The technology industry in Scotland is forecast to be the fastest growing sector in Scotland in the next few years, but there’s currently an urgent skills gap.

“Tech companies are urgently looking for new staff but are finding a lack of qualified applicants, and Fife College wants to help address that.

“We’re offering a range of digital and computing courses that can help provide individuals with the skills they need to find a job in the sector.

“Given the growth we’ve seen in recent years, and the high salaries that are often on offer, it’s an exciting time to be working in the industry.

“That’s why we’re encouraging anyone looking for a new start to their career to get in touch with us.

“It could be games development or coding, healthcare or tourism, but we believe the possibility of a digital career is open for everyone.”