It seems as though enrollment in college-level computer science and engineering programs is actually up. As reported in a recent USA Today story, the number of undergraduates enrolled in computer science and engineering programs was up 8% in 2007-2008 over the prior year – the first increase since 2002.
The finding came out of a report by the Computing Research Association (a trade group representing 200 university computing departments), which also found that the uptick is likely to continue as Web 2.0 and other popular tech tools like the iPhone, Facebook, and YouTube lead to increasing interest in IT and computer science among young people.
As Managing Automation has discussed in its coverage over the past year, companies are starting to grapple with the impending shortage of skilled workers. So the news that there may be a bigger pool of technical talent in the pipeline is encouraging.
Meanwhile, companies in a pinch can’t afford to wait. For example, MA’s 2008 Progressive Manufacturing High Achiever in education and training proactively implemented an education program for its employees, including apprentice training and other classes, in partnership with local colleges. And the company, E.J. Ajax & Sons, an $8 million maker of formed-metal products like appliance hinges, pays the tuition in full, spending approximately $1,800 a year per employee on training and education.
The skilled worker shortage plays into the larger debate over the ability of the U.S. to remain competitive on a global scale. And while there might be a glimmer of hope for the future as far as technical and IT skills, the USA Today article also notes that the waxing interest in computing is simultaneously pulling future workers away from areas like business and finance.
That’s not particularly surprising, given the state of business and finance today. But does this mean there’s no prospect for a win-win in the U.S.? Or is it all part of a natural cycle that won’t have lasting effects either way on our ability to compete?
—Diane Himes, MA Senior Editor
Posted by Diane Himes at 03/20/2009 04:02:24 PM |