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Connecticut Faces Deepening Tech Talent Crisis

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/15 .. necticut-faces-deepening-tech-talent-crisis.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Sunday, February 15th 2026 at 19:09 GMT by inforum
      Locales: Michigan, UNITED STATES

Hartford, CT - February 16th, 2026 - Connecticut is facing a deepening crisis in its technology sector: a severe talent gap that threatens to stifle economic growth and innovation. While the demand for digital skills surges across all industries, the state struggles to attract and retain the skilled workforce needed to compete in the 21st-century economy. Recent discussions with industry leaders, educators, and government officials paint a stark picture, revealing a complex problem requiring immediate and collaborative action.

For years, Connecticut has lagged behind tech hubs like Massachusetts, California, and even increasingly, North Carolina, in attracting and retaining tech talent. This isn't merely about a lack of qualified graduates; it's a multifaceted issue encompassing cost of living, perceived quality of life, and a historically slow adoption of forward-thinking workforce development strategies. The competition for talent is fierce, and Connecticut consistently finds itself outbid, both in terms of salary and appealing work environments.

Susan Mistowski, of Inforum, a leading Connecticut business advocacy group, recently articulated the gravity of the situation. "We are consistently hearing from our member companies that finding skilled tech workers is their biggest impediment to growth," Mistowski explained. "They're forced to either delay projects, outsource work, or, increasingly, consider relocating parts of their operations outside the state. We're losing opportunities to states that are more proactive in addressing their talent needs."

This isn't simply a problem for established tech companies. The digitization of nearly every sector - from manufacturing and healthcare to finance and retail - means that demand for tech skills extends far beyond the traditional tech industry. Businesses across the board are struggling to find employees with expertise in areas like data analytics, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and software development. This widespread demand is exacerbating the talent shortage and driving up costs.

Recognizing the urgency, organizations like Forge Institute are stepping up to bridge the gap. Ritu Bansal, from Forge Institute, described their mission as "building a tech-ready workforce for Connecticut." Forge Institute offers accelerated, immersive training programs designed to equip individuals with the in-demand skills employers are seeking. These programs prioritize practical, hands-on learning and focus on preparing graduates for immediate entry into the workforce. They are actively working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including career changers and those without traditional four-year degrees.

"Traditional education isn't keeping pace with the rapidly evolving needs of the tech industry," Bansal stated. "Our programs are designed to be nimble and responsive, providing individuals with the skills they need now to fill critical roles."

Infosys, a global leader in technology services, is a key partner in this effort. Kevin Jameson, representing Infosys, highlighted the company's commitment to workforce development in Connecticut. "We see Connecticut as a state with significant potential," Jameson explained. "But realizing that potential requires a concerted effort to build a robust tech talent pipeline. We're partnering with Forge Institute, as well as other educational institutions and community organizations, to create pathways for Connecticut residents to enter the tech workforce."

Infosys's involvement extends beyond financial support. They provide curriculum development expertise, mentorship opportunities, and, crucially, guaranteed interviews for graduates of participating programs. This "hire first" approach helps to de-risk the investment for both individuals and employers.

The conversation repeatedly underscored the need for a holistic, collaborative approach. Simply training more people isn't enough. Connecticut needs to improve its overall attractiveness as a place to live and work. This includes addressing concerns about the cost of living, improving infrastructure, and fostering a more vibrant innovation ecosystem. Government incentives, such as tax credits for companies that invest in workforce development, could also play a crucial role. Furthermore, focusing on retaining existing talent through competitive salaries, opportunities for professional growth, and a positive work-life balance is paramount.

The state legislature is currently considering several bills aimed at addressing the tech talent gap, including funding for expanded training programs and incentives for companies that create apprenticeships. However, many observers believe that more aggressive action is needed to truly turn the tide. Connecticut's future economic prosperity hinges on its ability to cultivate a skilled tech workforce and position itself as a competitive player in the digital age. The question remains: will the state act decisively enough, and quickly enough, to avoid falling further behind?