The tech world is evolving rapidly, driven by advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). Innovations in AI and ML have created a demand for newer roles like deep learning engineers, data scientists, cybersecurity experts, specialized researchers, AI chat developers, and many, many more. At the same time, fascinating, nuanced roles have cropped up — like AI ethicists or professionals responsible for maintaining a responsible AI framework.
It's not just AI and ML roles joining the job market. At Howdy.com, we've encountered soaring demand for everything from API integration engineers and basic core developers as brands seek to integrate tools in never-before-seen ways.
A lack of experienced professionals
Driving competition is the current landscape's short supply of appropriately skilled and experienced technical workers.
It's true that nearly 60,000 US students graduate with computer science degrees. However, fresh out of college, these tech workers haven't had a chance to develop the skills, experience, and wisdom brands want.
The scarcity of in-demand skills correlates with developments in AI, machine learning, and new coding languages. Predictably, businesses have a tough time locating candidates with experience with brand-new technologies like ML, AI blockchain, and cybersecurity.
Think about it: If you're a hiring manager seeking a candidate with a PhD in machine learning and five years of experience in large language models (LLMs) — you'll likely be looking for a very long time. This technology barely hit the mainstream with the introduction of ChatGPT in 2022, so even highly educated senior devs are unlikely to have much LLM experience.
Bottom line? There's not just a shortage of tech workers in the US. There's a shortage of US tech workers with experience.
How brands can attract experienced candidates by expanding their hiring pool
The rise of remote work offers a compelling solution to the experienced tech candidate shortage. Remote work has torn down the barriers of geography, empowering employers to source the best employees from different parts of the world. Instead of pulling from a tiny pool of experienced talent from their city, brands can hire experienced tech workers from around the globe.
US candidates benefit from international hiring, too. When brands fill senior positions with international hires, they can open up positions for entry-level developers who work beneath them. Companies that hire leaders from the global pool help upskill inexperienced domestic college graduates so they can be the leaders of tomorrow.
Latin America shines as a vast, untapped pool of highly educated, highly skilled, highly experienced tech professionals. The region has emerged as a leader in AI, ML, and LLM adoption, with Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina leading the way.
At Howdy.com, the majority of our technical workers have 5 to 10 years of experience in their field and are backed by impressive resumes that include senior and leadership roles at international tech titans. As these new technologies become commonplace, a growing body of Howdy developers offer experience in high-demand areas like AI and ML, data engineering and analytics, and DevOps.
Latin America: An untapped reservoir of senior talent
Highly experienced tech workers are closer than you think. Our LatAm neighbor is home to an untapped talent pool of senior programming professionals who speak your language and live within an hour of your time zone. Expand your search for experienced devs to Latin America, and your brand can remain competitive in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
