An online poll by listed ICT recruitment company Candle ICT revealed that 70% of the 1000 ICT professionals surveyed Australia-wide are committed to a long term career in ICT.

Approximately half (51%) of ICT professionals surveyed viewed ICT as a career for life, with a further 19% intending to retire before the age of 55.  15% do not intend on staying in the industry long term and would consider other alternatives. Only 15% stated they would prefer to be doing something else.

"With organisations implementing long term growth strategies and renewing investment in information and communications technology, it’s encouraging to learn that the vast majority of ICT professionals are now confident of a sustainable and rewarding career within the industry," said Peter Zonnevylle, general manager NSW Candle ICT.  "Our findings should reassure young people looking at their career options that the ICT industry can offer long term benefits."

The survey also has implications for employers according to Robert Collins, managing director of Candle Australia: "With around 30% of respondents indicating an inclination or clear preference to be doing something else, managers of ICT staff have to understand the needs of their personnel and their interest in developing careers both in ICT and perhaps beyond ICT.  Given the current risk of skills shortages in key ICT areas, we need to be looking after the skilled talent in this market."