Despite the importance of technology adoption to business sector innovation and competitiveness, Canada’s adoption rate remains low compared to our international counterparts. One of the principal reasons behind this is the lack of skilled workers who can assess and implement technological innovations. This, coupled with the integration of digital technologies into other sectors of the economy — such as manufacturing, finance, and healthcare — has created an even higher demand for skilled ICT talent. Despite this, Canada is experiencing a shortage of skilled ICT talent, largely in relation to demographic shifts as well as an insufficient volume of youth in the post-secondary supply pipeline. The ability to engage all available talent, including Indigenous peoples, will be critical in mitigating these gaps. However, The benefits of engaging more Indigenous peoples in the ICT and STEM labour force extend far beyond filling labour shortages.
