2008 will see HR teams flooded with a wave of entry-level IT staff keen to take advantage of the sector’s skill shortage.
This is according to Accelerated Learning pioneer, Firebrand Training (formerly The Training Camp), which has seen a huge rise in demand for its desktop support and administration courses.
Bookings for ComDepTIA’s A+ and Network+ courses are up 45% compared to the first two weeks of January 2007.
These certifications provide IT professionals with the basic hardware, software and networking skills for a wide range of support or technician roles.
Firebrand Training has seen demand for many of its courses since the New Year, with enquiries up over 60% from December.
Alongside the basic level courses, PRINCE2 project management and Vista-based MCSEs have also shown increased interest from students.
The increase in demand illustrates that employees are seeing the current technical skills shortage as an opportunity that can be exploited.
Total demand for IT professionals is at its highest level since 2001, meaning career and salary prospects can be extremely attractive.
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“New Year is generally a time where employees consider their future career, and resolve to progress professionally – through promotion and further qualifications or potentially moving into a new direction,” said Robert Chapman, CEO, Firebrand Training. “It’s no surprise people are taking the IT plunge – the skills shortage means that there are a plethora of opportunities available to those willing to take the first step on to the ladder. Getting qualified now in the basics could be the beginning of a successful and lucrative future career.”
