Prospects for low-skilled workers in the information technology (IT) sector : lessons for workforce development policy from Boston area IT firms and the staffing industry

Abstract

This thesis investigates the role of workforce development policy in creating employment opportunities for lower skilled workers in the information technology (IT) sector and related businesses. It generally accepted that this sector creates job opportunities with superior wages and employment benefits compared to other sectors; this thesis explores entry-level employment in IT-related occupations as an opportunity out of low-wage, low-skill jobs through access to higher quality entry-level work and mobility into higher skilled position in the industry. Research on the occupational profiles along with the employment and hiring practices of IT firms highlights employment barriers faced by lower skilled workers in the IT sector. This investigation surveys two perspectives: the IT firms of Cambridge, Massachusetts that employ workers, and the Boston area staffing industry that supplies a significant amount of labor to these employers. Thus, the research presented in this thesis describes both the demand and supply sides of the IT labor market. The ultimate goal of this investigation is to look for ways to open up high-tech employment to workers beyond the norm of white, male, Caucasian, age 36 to 40, with a bachelor's degree, as reported by nationwide statistics on IT workers. Forging into the IT sector with workforce development policy requires more than short-term training to assist lower skilled workers in accessing jobs. The stringent education and skill requirements of core IT positions mandate the development of long-term training and education policies to increase the supply of workers qualified to enter into the field. In addition to long-term training, successful employment policy is needed to creatively assist lower skilled workers in qualifying for entry-level IT occupations, so that they can take advantage of the growing employment opportunities created by this industry. This thesis concludes with policy recommendations on how to provide employment and training opportunities that initiate careers for lower skilled workers in IT-related occupations, as well as spur opportunities for mobility out of entry-level work