CompTIA study: IT professionals seek more career development support as AI reshapes workforce skills

92% say additional resources would help them achieve their career goals, while fewer than half are satisfied with advancement opportunities

DOWNERS GROVE, Ill., Oct. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite strong job satisfaction, many information technology (IT) professionals say they need more support to advance their careers as artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes workplace skill requirements, according to new research from CompTIA.

The "CompTIA IT Career Insights 2026" study finds that while 76% of IT professionals are satisfied with their jobs, fewer than half (47%) are satisfied with advancement opportunities. Nearly nine in 10 (87%) report at least one career concern, while 88% intend to prioritize the development of at least one AI-related skills.

"IT professionals are taking steps to keep their skills current, particularly as AI changes workplace skill requirements," said Amy Carrado, senior director of workforce research, CompTIA. "They are also looking for more opportunities to advance and stronger support for developing new skills."

Key findings from the study include:

Career concerns are widespread. Limited career growth opportunities and uncertainty about next career steps are the leading concerns for workers generally, though at somewhat lower rates among IT professionals. Still, 68% plan to strengthen their skills or pursue a higher-level role within the next two years.

AI is changing skill priorities. Fifty-five percent say AI improves their efficiency, 34% say it is changing job skill requirements, and 57% rank AI skills among their top development priorities.

IT professionals want more learning support. Ninety-two percent say additional resources would help them achieve their career goals. Yet among IT professionals at small and mid-size businesses, 33% say their employer does not provide ongoing learning support, or they are unsure what resources are available. At the largest firms, 20% of IT pros said the same, showing room for employers to improve both access to support and awareness of existing resources.

Certifications deliver career and professional benefits. Eighty-four percent of certification holders report career or professional benefits from certification, yet only 34% say their employer covers certification costs. Forty-four percent pay certification expenses out of pocket.

"Employees are investing in their own development through certifications, training and AI skills," Carrado said. "Employers that match that commitment can strengthen workforce readiness while supporting career growth."

The study surveyed 3,631 CompTIA certification alumni and other IT professionals in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States. The report is available at https://www.comptia.org/en-us/resources/research/it-career-insights-2026/.

About CompTIA 
CompTIA, Inc. is the world's leading provider of vendor-neutral information technology (IT) training and certification products. CompTIA unlocks potential in millions of aspiring technology professionals and career changers. Working in partnership with thousands of academic institutions and training providers, CompTIA helps students build career-ready skills through best-in-class learning solutions, industry-recognized certifications and career resources. Learn more at https://www.comptia.org/.

Contact
Steven Ostrowski
CompTIA
[email protected]

SOURCE CompTIA, Inc.