Computer systems analysts top the list of local jobs that are in high demand with a low supply of skilled workers to fill the jobs. According to the labor market research tool Burning Glass, there are only 262 potential candidates currently available to fill 1,014 computer systems analysts openings in the Tampa Bay area. Other jobs that need hundreds of workers to fill them are web developers and software application developers.

St. Petersburg College is helping fill the skills gap by offering technology degrees and certificates that prepare students for these technology jobs. Computer systems analysts help companies evaluate, design and implement effective computer systems. In 2014, computer systems analysts earned a median salary in Florida of $80,000, according to O*Net.

“Systems analysts, by definition, could be found in any discipline (management, security, programming, development, networking) as they design and implement information systems with the end user as the focus,” said Sharon Setterlind, dean of SPC’s College of Computer and Information Technology. “Analysts come from a variety of disciplines.”

To help expose non-traditional technology students to the IT profession, St. Petersburg College recently partnered with Tech Data, the Tampa Bay Technology Forum, Valpak and the University of South Florida St. Petersburg to host the inaugural Exploratory Lab Boot Camp. The 70-hour program meets the needs of local companies who desire well-rounded employees from broad backgrounds who can mesh with their organizations.

“The ability to strengthen our programs to better meet the needs of world-class employers is fundamental to our vision of success for our students,” said Dr. Bill Law, St. Petersburg College president.

Preparing students for in demand jobs

In addition to preparing students for high-wage, high-demand jobs, St. Petersburg College helps students prepare for and pass industry certification exams like:

• Cisco Certified Network Associate Certificate
• Linux System Administrator Certificate
• Microsoft Certified Server Administrator Certificate

SPC’s career and internship programs help students learn real-world job skills through internships and career and job fairs and workshops.

Top 10 occupations with skills gap

Four out of the top 10 occupations with the largest gap between supply and demand in the Tampa Bay area are in technology. Learn more about Careers in Information Technology.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of computer systems analysts is projected to grow 25 percent from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. Growth in cloud computing, cyber security, and mobile networks will increase demand for these workers.

Source: Burning Glass