IT market in small and medium-sized cities
The Polish IT market is dynamic and diverse, offering many opportunities in both large and smaller cities. Smaller urban centers differ from larger ones due to differences in infrastructure, availability of human resources and technological development.
How does this look from the perspective of entrepreneurs? Companies in local markets have a limited base of potential customers, but have less competition. In addition, the cost of doing business is lower than in large cities. Access to highly skilled workers is sometimes difficult, mainly due to the lack of schools and colleges training in these fields, but some students, after earning their degrees, return to their hometowns and feed local businesses. These favorable conditions mean that more and more companies offering IT services in smaller centers are emerging.
Nevertheless, the disparity in the deployment of IT workers in Poland remains significant. This is well illustrated by Bulldogjob’s IT Community Survey 2020 report. More than 50% of IT professionals live in the 3 provinces of Mazowieckie, Malopolskie and Dolnoslaskie. 25% of them all work in Warsaw.
Source: https://bulldogjob.pl/it-report/2020
IT technical school and what’s next?
IT workers, especially those just starting out in the industry, are in a more difficult position than entrepreneurs. Getting a qualification often involves moving to a big city, and that’s not possible for everyone. The lack of local educational programs and scholarships is also not conducive to re-branding. Often people who want to start their careers have no one to ask for advice, they struggle with lack of access to peri-industry knowledge, they don’t know where to start – where to look for a job, which positions to target, which course to take.
The Labor Office in Siedlce met these needs by organizing a meeting with owners of companies operating in the IT sector. They were joined by Andrzej Orzełowski and Kazimierz Przybyla of IT Factory. Speakers talked about the risks and opportunities on the career path and shared their experiences of entering the labor market. In the hall were this year’s graduates of the IT technical school ZSP No. 1 in Siedlce, as well as other interested parties – parents and the unemployed.
Together on the road to overcoming limitations
Leveling the playing field in the IT market requires a multifaceted approach and the involvement of various players, including the government, businesses, educational institutions and local communities. Improving access to resources and education, promoting innovation and supporting local businesses are key factors that can help reduce disparities.
Examples of initiatives, such as the one undertaken by the Labor Office in Siedlce, prove that, despite the challenges, working toward a set goal is possible. We are glad that we could participate in the discussion and meet so many, interesting young people. We look forward to returning to Siedlce in the near future!
