There have been a few initiatives launched in central Iowa in recent weeks that call attention to the demand for Information Technology professionals (and other STEM- related professions). One involves a partnership between DMACC and several central Iowa companies; another is the creation of new STEM-related degrees and a building to house related-programs at Drake, and the Technology Association of Iowa is partnering with its members to create an apprenticeship program.

All aim to help meet the demand, which is forecasted to increase as job growth continues and talent supply dwindles. We looked at the education-level of 50 of our most recent candidates whom we placed with local companies. The statistics show that holding a college degree is common and that the majority have a technology-related degree. We just need more people choosing this path.