Numbers from a recent Ottawa Centre for Research and Innovation (OCRI) survey show that the Ottawa high-tech sector is back on its feet. The growing concern, however, is the lack of qualified individuals to fill positions.
The survey of some 1,500 high-tech companies in the area shows that in the past 12 months more than 120 companies and 8,300 jobs have been added in the region. “However labour market circumstances are very different now,” says Jeffrey Dale, president and CEO of OCRI. “While we are seeing a general increase in high-tech employment, many highly skilled individuals remain unemployed. As our technologies rapidly change, so too are the skill sets required to service them.”
Compounded with a looming high-tech labour shortage is the declining university enrolment in high-tech programs. In 2000-2001 enrolment in computer science at the University of Ottawa varied between 220 and 240 students. Today, enrolment stands closer to 60 students. It is hoped the resurgence of Ottawa’s advanced technology sector will attract students back to programs leading to high-tech careers.
