Michael Ferguson,Minister for Science and Technology
The Hodgman Liberal Government is delivering on its election pledge to boost the number of Tasmanian women taking up a career in the ICT industry.
A Workforce Development Plan for the industry includes the new Women in ICT Pathways program which will lift participation rates and build the diversity and future capability of the sector.
Currently 28 per cent of all ICT workers are women, compared to 45 per cent across other professional industries, so this new program aims to present the ICT industry as an exciting and dynamic career option suited to anyone, regardless of gender.
While it's pleasing that Tasmanian ICT employment continues to grow, the limited supply of local skilled ICT workers is compounded by the relatively low participation rates of women, which is also reflected in national trends.
This program will support employers in accessing emerging ICT talent while helping young workers develop the skills that they need to succeed and to shift community and employer perceptions of the profession.
It will provide new career pathways by matching local ICT leaders with up-and-coming students to coach them through their course and internship, and empower participants to build industry networks.
The support of experienced professionals in the sector will build the confidence of those entering the industry, promote professionalism, improve presentation and communication skills and encourage life-long learning.
This is part of the Hodgman Liberal Government's plan to get more Tasmanians into training and work, especially where it can break down the barriers of gender and disadvantage across the community.
The Women in ICT Pathways Program is a joint initiative of the Tasmanian Government, the Australian Computer Society and TasTAFE.
