CompTIA State of Tech Workforce: Stronger Job Growth for 2024

In 2024, the U.S. technology sector employment market's growth is anticipated to triple compared to its expansion in 2023. That is according to a study from the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), which also predicts approximately 300,000 new jobs will be created as part of the growth. 

CompTIA's State of the Tech Workforce 2024 report says the growth will elevate the total number of tech workers in the U.S. to around 9.9 million.

Long-term projections for job growth are also on solid footing. Over the next 10 years tech occupation employment is expected to expand at about twice the rate of overall employment across the U.S. economy.

Growth driver occupations will expand even faster. Positions in the data science and data analyst category, cybersecurity category, software development category, UI/UX category and emerging tech category including artificial intelligence will grow at the fastest rates on a percentage basis. On a volume basis, core infrastructure positions in networking and cloud engineering, along with tech support positions, will continue to serve as the on ramp for many starting a career in technology.

Broad-Based Geographic Growth in Tech Jobs

The tech job expansion is not limited to specific geographic areas. CompTIA said that 20 states and 14 metro areas are predicted to surpass the national average growth rate. 

Additionally, as many as 26 cities could double their growth rate from the previous year, showcasing the widespread distribution of tech hubs across the country. 

The tech sector's impact on the economy is also poised to increase from its current $2 trillion annual contribution, underscored by the activities of over 650,000 technology firms, according to the report.

The Future of Tech Employment

Tim Herbert, chief research officer at CompTIA, commented on the findings: 

“After periods of overperformance and underperformance, the overarching tech story remains positive. Ensuring a thriving, globally competitive workforce means further committing to developing the country’s base of tech and digital talent through time-tested and alternative pathways.”

Insights into Hiring Trends

Job postings in 2023 for core tech jobs reached nearly 2.9 , and postings for basic digital or advanced digital fluency skills totalled 8.9.

Recognizing the demand for talent with emerging skills, CompTIA has introduced new AI training and certification programs to address the burgeoning demand for AI expertise.

This growth comes at a time when more hiring managers are showing hesitancy to hire both Gen Z and senior job searchers. However, the majority of Gen Z workers report being happy in their jobs, according to two surveys from ResumeBuilder.com.