Intelligent Data Centres Issue 05 | Page 23

INDUSTRY INTELLIGENCE POWERED BY THE DCA to the widespread destruction of jobs, the report shows that parents are optimistic about what the future of work will mean for children currently at school. A total of 64% were optimistic or very optimistic about the future job opportunities that would be available to their children. Parents surveyed were clear that, in order to achieve those opportunities, the educational landscape will need to evolve – with 65% of parents surveyed believing that a stronger focus on soft skills was needed. Parents working in tech roles are not convinced that, as it stands, the education system will help develop the opportunities required for their children. A total of 73% of those surveyed felt the curriculum did not place sufficient emphasis on the types of skills that would become more vital in the future world of work. www.intelligentdatacentres.com And 90% believe their children would need to retrain throughout their lives to keep up with the pace of technological change. It requires employers to see training as an investment in their own business’ future rather than a cost. It’s about employees recognising the investment being made in them and rewarding this with reciprocal loyalty. And like the many job opportunities available in the data centre sector it requires it to be open to every single one of us – regardless of gender, ethnic background or personal situation. Steve Hone CEO and Co-Founder of the Data Centre Trade Association said: “The findings of the techUK report highlight many issues which can only be effectively addressed collectively. “A good example of this is the Workforce Capability and Development Special Interest Group which was set up by the DCA to share new ideas and approaches with members and fellow Strategic Partners.” He added: “Improving the data centre brand would definitely be a good place to start. If we are to make the data centre sector a career of choice rather than a complete accident, then we need to stop it being a ‘best kept secret’ and move it out of the shadows and into the light. “We need to all work hard to make the sector more relevant and appealing to the next generational wave of data centre experts because getting new young people engaged in this industry is no longer a nice to have or a CSR obligation, it’s simply a case of survival.” ◊ Issue 05 23