AI actually boosts demand for tech talent, says Linux Foundation
AI actually boosts demand for tech talent, says Linux Foundation
Publish Date: 2026-06-08 05:44:00
Source Domain: www.techzine.eu
Artificial intelligence is not yet leading to a contraction of the IT labor market. On the contrary: organizations expect to need more technical staff in the coming years. At the same time, concerns are growing about security, skills gaps, and the declining influx of junior talent. This is evident from the Linux Foundation’s State of Tech Talent Europe 2026 report.
For the study, organizations were surveyed in February 2026 about AI, recruitment, and technical skills. The results show that AI in Europe is expected to lead to a net growth in IT employment of 27 percent in 2026 and 17 percent in 2027. Globally, those percentages are slightly higher at 34 and 25 percent, respectively.
This picture differs from the impression created by recent rounds of layoffs at major technology companies. According to the Linux Foundation, these layoffs are primarily concentrated at companies with more than 20,000 employees. Smaller organizations, on the other hand, expect to expand their technical teams.
High demand for AI specialists
The strongest growth is expected in roles directly related to AI. European organizations anticipate a net increase of 64 percent in this area, compared to 58 percent globally. At the same time, an imbalance is emerging in the labor market. While demand for experienced AI specialists is growing, the number of entry-level positions in Europe is declining. The study reports a net decrease of 3 percent for entry-level positions. Globally, however, growth is still evident.
According to the researchers, this could eventually lead to a shortage of professionals with mid-level and senior experience. The findings align with predictions from the World Economic Forum, which expects a net increase of 78 million jobs worldwide by 2030. According to organizations, it is not the technology itself, but security and privacy that pose the greatest barriers to further AI adoption. Security is cited by 51 percent of respondents…
