The potential benefits of AI in closing the skills gap
AI and automation offer several advantages which can help address the shortage of skilled IT professionals. For example, AI-driven learning platforms can provide personalized training, helping IT professionals quickly develop new skills. In addition, some AI systems aim to handle routine administrative work, such as network monitoring, software updates and security patching, taking these tasks away from employees and freeing up their time for skilled tasks.
There is also the potential for AI to be used to improve recruitment and talent matching. This is done through advanced algorithms to match candidates with roles based on skills and experience. Automated CV screening and predictive analytics help identify top talent efficiently, while AI-powered chatbots handle scheduling and communication. Headhunting tools analyse social media and professional networks to find passive candidates, and AI-driven video analysis assesses interview performance. AI can also reduce hiring biases by focusing on objective criteria.
However, whilst these innovations might help organisations with the current shortage of skills IT professionals, AI often does not provide tailored solutions for a specific business.
The risks of AI deepening the the skills gap
Data from our 2024 IT and Tech Skills Gap Report suggests that the primary causes of the shortage include rapidly evolving IT/tech sectors (42%), high competition for talent (35%), and inadequate training or applicant availability from educational institutions (31% and 30%).
While AI can at times assist in closing the skills gap, it can also introduce new challenges, as rapid advancements in AI-driven tools and processes accelerate industry changes faster than traditional training programmes can keep up. This evolution requires continuous upskilling and adaptation, making it difficult for both employees and organizations to stay current with the latest technology.
A 2024 survey (SnapLogic) found that while 81% of IT professionals are interested in using AI, only 12% have the necessary skills to do so effectively. This highlights the growing demand for AI literate professionals, further widening the skills gap.
Additionally, over-automation can diminish hands-on learning opportunities for IT professionals, potentially leading to a long-term skills gap. If AI handles too many tasks, junior professionals may struggle to gain practical experience, making career progression difficult. This could result in a workforce which relies heavily on AI-driven tools without fully understanding the underlying processes, making it harder to troubleshoot issues or innovate beyond AI’s capabilities. A study by Michael Gerlich at SBS Swiss Business School in Zurich, Switzerland found “a negative correlation between frequent AI use and critical thinking abilities.” If fewer people develop deep technical expertise, critical skills could be lost, creating dependency on automated systems and limiting the ability to adapt when AI tools fail or require improvement.
Another key issue with the use of AI is the loss of the human touch, where AI cannot replace soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and interpersonal communication. An over reliance on automation can lead to a workforce which lacks the ability to troubleshoot complex issues, adapt to unique challenges, or collaborate effectively with colleagues and customers. Businesses which prioritize automation over human expertise risk losing out on a customer-focused approach which differentiates quality IT services, as well as well-rounded professionals who can bridge the gap between technical solutions and customer needs.
How can you successfully use AI to help address the skills gap?
To harness AI’s benefits in addressing the skills gap while avoiding its drawbacks, you should adopt a balanced approach. This can be done in the following ways:
- Invest in continuous learning – Encourage ongoing education and certification programmes covering the developing AI field to ensure employees stay ahead.
- Foster human-AI collaboration – Instead of replacing human employees, AI should be used to enhance productivity. For example, AI might automate cybersecurity threat detection, but human experts should still interpret and respond to threats.
- Prioritize hands-on experience – IT professionals need opportunities to gain real-world experience alongside AI tools. Junior professionals should be encouraged to practice complex problem-solving using a hands-on approach.
- Implement ethical AI practices – AI should be used responsibly, with transparency in how it makes decisions. Ensuring human oversight in AI-driven processes builds trust and prevents unintended consequences.
The role of MSPs in addressing the skills gap
Rather than becoming over-reliant on AI, at the risk of worsening the effect of the skills gap, our report highlighted the role of working with managed service providers (MSPs) in addressing the shortage. MSPs play a crucial role in helping businesses navigate the IT skills shortage – according to our research, around 65% of business leaders in the UK use MSPs.
MSPs are most frequently used for security (61%) and infrastructure management (51%). Additionally, 46% of companies reported experiencing a severe skills gap and confirmed that they rely heavily on MSPs to address the shortage. By leveraging MSPs, businesses can access a pool of experienced IT professionals, ensuring critical functions are maintained without delays caused by hiring challenges. This is especially useful where time/budget restraints do not allow for internal IT team optimization.
An MSP can also support you with automation to improve your workflows by implementing advanced tools and technologies which streamline repetitive tasks, reduce human error, and increase efficiency. Where desired, they can help integrate solutions such as automated software updates and AI-driven ticketing systems. By leveraging automation, an MSP can optimise resource allocation, minimize downtime, and ensure security monitoring and compliance reporting happen routinely. Your internal teams are able to focus on other business priorities while an MSP handles the complexities of your infrastructure.
Why choose Hyve to support you in bridging the skills gap?
It is clear that businesses are facing a growing IT and tech skills gap, making it more difficult to find the expertise needed to manage and optimize cloud environments. While AI and automation play an important role in modern IT infrastructure, there is no substitute for the hands-on knowledge and experience of a dedicated cloud team.
At Hyve, we bridge this gap by delivering bespoke cloud solutions, focusing on delivering best-of-class support, security, and scalability. We act as an extension of your team, giving you immediate access to experienced cloud specialists without the challenges of in-house recruitment.
Our team of experts work proactively to:
- Optimize your cloud environment for performance and cost efficiency
- Ensure security compliance and mitigate risks before they become issues
- Provide tailored guidance based on your unique business needs
- Strengthen your cloud strategy and ensure long-term operational stability
A smarter approach to cloud management
While AI and automation can enhance IT operations, it is not a replacement for human expertise, especially when managing complex, mission-critical cloud environments. Relying on our cloud experts allows you to focus on what you do best and achieve your business goals, whilst we manage the complexities of your cloud infrastructure.
Fill out our contact form today and a member of our experienced team will get in touch.
