Quebec, Canada, is a hub for Information Technology (IT) talent and innovation. The province is home to numerous multinational IT companies and startups, contributing significantly to its economy. However, despite its reputation as an IT hub, Quebec is facing significant IT labour staffing challenges.
IT Labour Staffing Challenges
According to the Quebec Ministry of Economy and Innovation, the IT sector in Quebec employs over 100,000 people and contributes over $15 billion to the province's GDP. However, despite its strong presence, the IT industry in Quebec is facing a significant shortage of skilled IT labour. A recent survey by the Quebec Technology Association found that 70% of IT companies in the province have difficulty finding qualified IT talent to fill open positions.
One of the main reasons for this shortage is the aging of the IT workforce in Quebec. Many experienced IT workers are reaching retirement age, and there is a lack of young talent to replace them. This has created a gap in the labour market, and companies are struggling to find the skilled IT workers they need to stay competitive.
High Demand for IT Workers Across Canada & Worldwide
Another factor contributing to the IT labour shortage in Quebec is the high demand for IT workers in other parts of Canada and worldwide. Many IT workers in Quebec are being lured away by higher salaries and better working conditions in other regions. This has further compounded the shortage of skilled IT labour in Quebec.
The State of the Candidate-Driven Market
The IT labour shortage in Quebec also significantly impacts the cost of doing business in the province. Companies are being forced to pay higher salaries and offer more attractive benefits packages to attract and retain IT workers as the candidates have more power. Being in a candidate-driven market puts pressure on companies' bottom lines and makes it more difficult for them to stay competitive in the global market.
What is Being Done?
To address these challenges, the Quebec government has launched several initiatives to attract and retain IT talent in the province. One of these initiatives is the creation of the Quebec Technology Scholarship Program, which provides financial support to young IT workers to help them complete their education and enter the workforce. The program is designed to encourage more young people to pursue careers in the IT industry and help fill the gap left by retiring IT workers.
The Quebec government has also partnered with the Quebec Technology Association to create the Quebec Technology Mentorship Program. This program allows young IT workers to work with experienced IT professionals and gain valuable on-the-job experience. This program is designed to help bridge the gap between education and work and provide young IT workers with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce.
PeopleToGo has a diverse and robust pool of bilingual talent that companies can leverage to meet their resourcing needs in Quebec. Click here to be connected with the PeopleToGo Team to learn more.