A Young Sector: How Generational Trends Are Shaping Georgia’s IT Labor Market

Today, the IT industry is not only a symbol of technological advancement but also a reflection of demographic shifts. Unlike many other sectors, Georgia’s IT workforce is distinctly young: according to 2023 data, nearly one-third of all IT professionals in the country are under the age of 26. This figure highlights that the sector is largely built on young talent—those who enter the field early, adapt to technology quickly, and often begin their careers even before completing formal education.

This trend mirrors global patterns. In the tech industry, career entry typically occurs much earlier than in other fields. Many start learning through coding camps, online projects, or internships well before university, accelerating the path to real-world experience. In Georgia, where formal education struggles to keep pace with industry needs, alternative learning paths—self-employment, freelance work, and project-based experience—have become even more vital.

However, the dominance of young professionals also brings challenges. On one hand, they set the tone for the sector’s culture—demanding remote work, flexible schedules, and more informal communication. On the other hand, their limited work experience can be a barrier in complex projects that require deeper technical judgment or long-term strategic thinking.

Generational differences are also reshaping management approaches. Company leaders note that teams composed largely of students or recent graduates require tailored supervision: more mentoring, clearer instructions, and new models of motivation.

At the same time, the lack of older professionals in the workforce creates structural gaps, particularly for managerial roles, systems analysis, and long-term planning. For the sector to sustain its growth, it’s not enough to bring in young talent—it must also find ways to retain and develop them over time.

Georgia’s IT workforce demographics reveal two clear messages: the sector is young and expanding rapidly, but long-term success depends on more than just early career entry. How will this young talent deepen its knowledge? How will it transition into leadership and strategic roles? And can the sector mature without facing a generational imbalance? These are the questions that will shape the next stage of growth in Georgia’s digital economy.

Find the BTU’s research report on IT sector trends here.