The tech industry presents boundless opportunities, yet it’s becoming increasingly difficult for young professionals to break in.
With companies demanding experience and expertise, the gap widens, leaving a generation potentially sidelined.
Challenges Facing Young Talent
The tech industry, though bustling with innovation, is increasingly posing challenges for young people. Many feel left behind as companies seek more experienced talent. This sentiment is echoed by Carl Wong, CEO of LivingLens, who highlights the difficulty in securing positions within this competitive environment. The need for workplace-ready skills becomes more apparent, particularly in coding, as young professionals struggle to find their footing.
The Growing Tech Scene in Liverpool
Liverpool’s tech community is flourishing, driven by the legacy of major corporations and a strong academic pipeline. Companies like LivingLens are capitalising on this growth, yet the challenge remains in sustaining it. Wong points out that while the withdrawal of companies like Sony initially opened up opportunities, the city now requires ongoing investment to maintain its momentum.
The city’s universities provide a continuous flow of graduates, but the local ecosystem must evolve to support them.
Industry-Led Education Initiatives
Educational initiatives such as Agent Academy’s 12-week courses are emerging as vital components in preparing graduates for the tech industry. Such programmes aim to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills, equipping young people with the tools necessary to excel.
Wong stresses the importance of a fundamental rethink in education to foster greater inclusion in the digital sector, potentially transforming how young talent engages with technology.
Expanding Horizons in North America
LivingLens is making significant inroads into the North American market, reflecting its status as a major consumer and tech hub. With over 40% of its revenue sourced from this region, the company is expanding its team across the Atlantic to harness local expertise.
This strategic growth is crucial for LivingLens as it seeks to deepen its industry relationships and expand its commercial operations globally.
The Role of Government and Policy Support
Liverpool Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram’s ambitions to strengthen connections with North America have received praise from Wong. The mayor’s strategic vision, coupled with his experienced team, is seen as a potential catalyst for regional growth.
Past challenges in executing growth strategies have been attributed to local politics, but hopes are high that a broader geographical approach will bring tangible results.
Aligning regional development with global opportunities is key to sustaining the tech community’s expansion.
Impact of Funding on Growth
LivingLens has secured £2.5 million in funding, underpinning its growth and technological advancements. This capital aids in refining its AI-driven video platform, enabling brands to gain deeper insights into consumer behaviour.
The funding supports the company’s mission to adapt and innovate, ensuring it remains competitive in a fast-paced industry that demands rapid evolution.
Consumer Feedback and Technological Innovation
The rise in consumer comfort with video feedback is revolutionising how companies gather insights. LivingLens leverages this shift to enhance client services, impacting everything from product packaging to advertising strategies.
By capturing emotional and vocal nuances on video, businesses can gain profound understanding, allowing them to tailor their offerings more effectively.
Addressing these challenges requires collective effort from educational institutions, government, and the industry itself.
By equipping young people with relevant skills and creating pathways for inclusion, the tech industry can evolve into a more accessible and dynamic field.