Utah Leads Nation in Tech Sector Employment
Utah has emerged as a hub for tech workers, with a higher concentration of tech employees compared to 41 other states, according to a recent report by CompTIA, a national association of tech professionals. Despite this, recent data suggests that growth in Utah’s tech sector has slowed in the past few years.
While employment in Utah’s tech sector saw minimal growth from 2022 to 2023, it receded in 2023, based on state employment data. Specifically, there were nearly 2,000 fewer jobs in the “Computer Systems Design and Related” sector in February compared to the previous year. Additionally, Utah’s tech employment growth lagged behind national trends, indicating a challenging landscape for tech workers in the state.
Economists attribute this slowdown to factors like increasing federal interest rates, which limit access to capital for tech companies. As interest rates rise, startups and tech firms are finding it more difficult to secure funding, leading to job losses and decreased growth.
Despite these challenges, the tech industry is expected to rebound, with projections indicating potential growth of up to 5% this year. This growth is crucial for Utah’s economy, as the tech sector has a significant impact, contributing around $22 billion to the state’s economy.
However, Utah’s tech workforce faces challenges in terms of diversity and representation. Women, Hispanic, and Black workers are underrepresented in the tech industry compared to the state’s overall workforce, highlighting the need for greater inclusivity and diversity in the tech sector.
Looking ahead, experts believe that Utah’s tech industry is poised for growth in the coming years. Recent investments in hardware production and the demand for AI development are expected to drive expansion in the tech sector, offering new opportunities for tech workers in the state.
As the tech industry in Utah continues to evolve, it is essential to consider the personal experiences of tech workers. If you are a current or former tech industry employee in Utah, we invite you to share your insights and experiences by participating in our survey.
Shannon Sollitt, a Report for America corps member, covers business accountability and sustainability for The Salt Lake Tribune. Your support allows us to continue reporting on important topics like these. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to help fund our journalism efforts.
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