Digital Talent: Road to 2020 and Beyond

Digital talent is essential to Canada’s ability to adopt new technologies, strengthen productivity, and compete in a global economy. Published in 2016, Digital Talent: Road to 2020 and Beyond examines the skills and workforce challenges facing both the ICT sector and industries adopting digital technologies. Drawing on input from more than 500 individuals and organizations, this national strategy outlines practical recommendations to develop Canada’s talent, support businesses, and prepare Canadians for an increasingly digital workplace.

Key Takeaways

• The report projected demand for 182,000 skilled ICT workers by 2019, which the domestic supply of ICT graduates and workers would be insufficient to meet.
• A lack of skilled workers limits businesses’ ability to assess and implement new technologies. Small and medium-sized enterprises face particular challenges finding and training job-ready talent.
• Engaging women, youth, immigrants, Indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities is critical to addressing talent shortages, alongside attracting and retaining global digital talent.
• Graduates need practical knowledge and skills to enter the workforce, while workforce upskilling and stronger digital literacy can support technology adoption.
• The strategy outlines seven priorities: youth talent development, workforce diversity, upskilling, global talent attraction and retention, digital literacy, digital entrepreneurship, and labour mobility.