Breda O’Toole
Head of Talent Development & Digitalisation, IDA Ireland
Learn why digital upskilling in areas like AI, cybersecurity and data analysis is vital even for non-IT workers — and how Ireland is helping bridge today’s urgent tech skills gap.
The World Economic Forum emphasises the importance of upskilling in the workplace with critical skills such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analysis and software development. The accelerated adoption of digital tools, remote work solutions and advanced technologies like machine learning and generative AI means that to navigate rapid technological change, we do need to continuously develop these critical skills. What does this mean for workers?
Exploring digital skills in the workplace
In 2023, a study commissioned by IDA Ireland and Skillnet Ireland highlighted the need to upskill non-IT employees with key digital and data skills. The study identified data analysis as a significant skill gap among non-IT employees, with 49% of respondents highlighting this need.
Other skills such as digital literacy, AI and data analytics, cybersecurity, privacy and data/information management were also identified as key. Additionally, the study emphasised the importance of improving data literacy across the board. All workers should be able to interpret, use and create meaning from data, as well as have the digital proficiency to work with technology and improve efficiency.
IDA Ireland offers a range
of supports to help clients
develop digital skills.
Developing digital skills today
IDA Ireland offers a range of supports to help clients develop digital skills. One of the key initiatives is the IDA Ireland Innovation Diagnostic and Training Supports, which includes a diagnostic process to identify skills gaps in a business and match them with appropriate supports. The basic digital skills needed for non-IT roles that emerged from the report are available, along with an assessment process. There is a range of excellent programmes, both online and in person, to help with skills development. These can be accessed through the local Regional Skills Forum Manager.
Future skills are technology-driven
We all need to think about how we improve our tech skills and take advantage of the numerous programmes of upskilling programmes available. As Copilot becomes our best friend and helps us become more efficient, just learning how to engage with technology might give us back some precious time.
