Title

AWS re:Invent 2023 - Working globally to build tech skills and talent pipelines (WPS104)

Summary

Valerie Singer, the general manager for global education at AWS, introduces the session on building talent pipelines and addressing the skills gap.
AWS has been working with 78 institutions globally, serving about 380,000 students.
The Tech Alliance is a coalition of government, education, and employers, focusing on creating diverse talent pipelines.
The panel includes Kirsten Barnett (New York Jobs CEO Council), Ignacio Ronda Casals (NTT Data Europe and LATAM), and Grant Milstead (United Airlines).
The global skills gap is significant, with a projected 15% annual growth in cloud jobs in the U.S. and 57% of European enterprises reporting skills gaps.
Early career talent can impact GDP by about $1.5 trillion by 2030.
The panel discusses the importance of aligning education with employer needs, the benefits of apprenticeship programs, and the role of government in workforce development.
Success stories and best practices from New York and Chicago are shared, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning and continuous upskilling.
The panel concludes with actionable steps for employers to engage in building talent pipelines and the mutual benefits for businesses, individuals, and communities.

The skills gap is not only a challenge but also an opportunity for economic development and innovation.
Early career talent development is crucial for the future workforce and can significantly impact the economy.
Collaboration between education, government, and employers is essential to create effective talent pipelines.
Apprenticeship programs and alternative pathways to traditional education are valuable for diversifying and strengthening the workforce.
Continuous learning and adaptability are key for both individuals and organizations to keep up with rapidly evolving technology.
Experiential learning, such as internships and project-based work, is critical for students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
Employers need to communicate their skills needs clearly to education providers and government bodies to ensure relevant training.
There is a need for employers to rethink job descriptions and requirements to accommodate diverse educational backgrounds and experiences.
Government initiatives and policies play a significant role in promoting education and skill development.
The success of talent development programs can be measured by their impact on business objectives, employee retention, and customer satisfaction.