Coding is already being taught in schools as the need for these skills grows by the day.
However, Martin Ewings – director of Specialist Markets at Experis – believes that organisations need to tap into available talent now if they are to tackle the ongoing digital skills crisis.
He reveals that it is crucial that businesses take this opportunity to help current generations develop their digital know-how and offer their skills to the industry, to help close the gap.
>See also: Let’s not take the art out of coding
“Coding has evolved from a highly-technical, niche skill to a mainstream language that children as young as five are learning about in school,” explains Ewings.
“As the demand for jobs requiring these skills diversifies beyond strictly IT-based roles, it is vital that all generations – both the current and future workforce – are provided with the right education to learn these skills.”
The demand for coding skills is already in very high demand, and the government estimates that digital skills will be needed for 90% of jobs in 20 years’ time.
“But industry can’t wait for the younger generation to bring these skills into the market and fill the UK’s digital skills gap, continues Ewings.
“More needs to be done now – and it is possible. The older workforce is one of the most important sources of talent that organisations should be tapping into. That’s why National Coding Week is so important – to inspire adults to learn digital skills and encourage businesses to engage with that effort.”
>See also: Let’s not take the art out of coding
“Older workers, who are staying in jobs for much longer than they would have done previously, are a “hidden talent pool” that have adaptable legacy knowledge and the aptitude to learn new skills to help them in the current digital age. Given the pace of change, skills learnt today by anyone can become redundant very quickly, regardless of age. Therefore, this is an opportunity to compete on a level playing field. What these older workers do bring to a fledgling organisation is knowledge and experience of how businesses operate as well as a raft of other transferable skills.”
“If National Coding Week can inspire the older workforce to develop their digital knowledge and coding skills, UK organisations can bulk up their talent and help tackle the digital skills crisis now, instead of depending on future generations. Upskilling these workers will help leaders achieve long-term organisational growth while also keeping their top talent energised and engaged.”
