As a result, thousands opted for "IT training": coding boot camps, retraining in application development and intensive courses for frontend, backend or web development.

By 2024 at the latest, however, the picture will be different: the market is saturated - especially for entry-level positions.

How did this development come about?

The most important factors that explain the changes in the IT labor market:

1) One-sided focus on development & programming

Since 2020, many large training providers, subsidized retraining courses and lateral entry programs have placed a strong focus on software development.

They often advertised high salaries at the end of the course. Promises such as "up to €70,000 annual salary" became standard.

The problem: these expectations neither matched the real job market nor the quality basis of many courses. Many graduates found themselves in a saturated market at the end of the program - frustrated and without a job.

2) Weak economy & AI as a game changer

The economic weakness in Germany and Europe is putting the brakes on new hires. Small agencies, start-ups and digital projects are particularly affected.

At the same time, AI systems such as ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot and low-code platforms are taking over routine development tasks. What used to be typical junior tasks - e.g. simple front-end projects or API connections - are now often automated or outsourced.

3) Senior applicants without a job - what does this mean for juniors?

Many experienced developers are also currently looking for work. In some cases, over 400 people are applying for individual developer positions - often with many years of experience, specialization and industry knowledge.

This makes it even more difficult for career starters. They are not only competing with each other, but also with candidates who are far ahead of them professionally - and some of whom are prepared to work for entry-level salaries.

4) Internationalization & language exceptions intensify competition

Many developer roles - especially in international tech companies or in a remote environment - no longer require German.

As a result, the applicant market is expanding considerably, e.g. to include candidates from India, Eastern Europe, South America or North Africa. They often have professional experience, speak good English and can enter the country via the Blue Card from around €42,000 gross.

For juniors without much practical experience and without specialization, this means that they slip further down the rankings - even with training or studies in Germany.

5) IT is not just IT - demand ≠ security

A common misconception is the view of "IT" as a uniform growth area.

The greatest demand is no longer primarily in programming, but in:

• Network technology and infrastructure (e.g. CCNA / CCNP)
• Firewalling, VPN & Security Operations (e.g. CCNP Security)
• IT security and cybersecurity

There is not only a lack of skilled workers, but also a lack of qualified specialists with real practical experience and recognized certificates (manufacturer-specific knowledge).

What to do? Realistically rethink and reposition

If you want to gain a foothold in IT today - with or without previous experience - it is better to follow the demand rather than the trend.

• Instead of pure programming: infrastructure plus security
• Instead of bootcamp certificates: Manufacturer certificates with market value (e.g. Cisco, Fortinet)
• Instead of theory: labs, practice, realistic simulations and hands-on training
• Instead of frustration: Accompanying job coaching and active application management

Further training with substance

As an authorized Cisco CCNP Academy and AZWV-certified institution by EuropanoZert, we have been offering labour market-oriented IT qualifications for over 20 years. Our focus is on subsidized training with original hardware, recognized examinations, individual career coaching and a high integration rate. Participants benefit from full-time face-to-face teaching, extensive laboratory tasks and practical exercises.

Conclusion: IT remains future-proof - but not in every direction

The shortage of skilled workers is real - but not everywhere.

If you want to position yourself sustainably and successfully in 2025, you need to focus on areas with real demand - not on the masses.