The 2023 Deloitte technology outlook report highlights several key industry trends that can support the case for specific pivots in career and technical education tracks in high school. These trends indicate the direction in which the technology industry is heading and the skills that will be in demand. Here are some interesting facts from the report that can be used to support the case for career and technical education pivots:
- Acceleration of Digital Transformation: The pandemic accelerated digital transformation across industries. As tech companies extend their reach into other sectors, there will be a growing demand for workers with digital skills to support innovation and transformation in areas like healthcare, real estate, manufacturing, and retail.
- Demand for Critical Capabilities: The report emphasizes the need for critical capabilities in artificial intelligence (AI), robotic process automation (RPA), and cybersecurity. High schools should align their technical education tracks to equip students with these essential skills that will be in high demand in the tech industry.
- Focus on Cloud and XaaS: Cloud computing and everything-as-a-service (XaaS) models are expected to flourish during economic uncertainty. Schools should prioritize teaching cloud technologies and service-based IT to prepare students for the tech industry’s ongoing shift towards cloud-based solutions.
- Supply Chain and Resilience: The report mentions that tech companies are facing challenges related to supply chains and resiliency. High schools can emphasize courses in supply chain management and risk assessment to prepare students for addressing these critical issues in the tech industry.
- Convergence of Tech and Healthcare: The report highlights the convergence of technology and healthcare, with tech companies making significant investments in the digital health market. High schools should consider offering specialized tracks in health technology to prepare students for opportunities in this growing sector.
- Addressing Global Uncertainties: The tech industry is navigating global uncertainties, including geopolitical tensions and supply chain volatility. High schools should incorporate courses that focus on understanding global markets and managing risks associated with international business operations.
- Compliance with Environmental Regulations: Tech companies are facing increasing pressure to comply with environmental regulations and reduce carbon emissions. High schools should introduce courses on sustainability and environmental impact to prepare students for future compliance challenges.
Based on these trends, high schools should consider pivoting their technical education tracks to include courses in AI, RPA, cybersecurity, cloud computing, supply chain management, health technology, sustainability, and global business management. By aligning their curriculum with these industry trends, high schools can better equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the evolving technology landscape.
