Switzerland's first blockchain apprenticeship
There is a shortage of IT specialists in Switzerland. Specific expertise is required, especially for new technologies. The education company TIE International has recognized this and, together with the companies Inacta AG and CV VC AG, is offering Switzerland's first blockchain apprenticeship.
ICT talent is in high demand in the so-called "Crypto Valley" in the canton of Zug: 960 companies already employ over 5,000 people there and in the rest of Switzerland and Liechtenstein. But the rapidly growing field of crypto technology calls for even more young professionals. By 2028, more than 117,000 new professionals will be needed across the IT industry. This also requires sufficient training positions.
How blockchain teaching is shaping up
The two Zug IT companies Inacta and CV VC are now acting to meet their need for specialists. The aim is to promote young talent with attractive apprenticeships. Together with the education company TIE International, also based in Zug, they are therefore designing Switzerland's first blockchain apprenticeship. This builds on the IT and mediamatics apprenticeship, expanded to include a focus on blockchain technology. This means that IT training is supplemented with topics such as fintech, crypto and smart contracts. From the 2nd year of the apprenticeship, the apprentices work in their training company and gain their first experience in the blockchain environment.
Breaking up educational structures
Speaking about the motivations that led to this blockchain apprenticeship, Barbara Surber, Co-Founder and COO of TIE International, says: "We have been working hard to break down educational structures in the field of blockchain technology and to be able to train ICT professionals in this environment in a very targeted way." And Jennifer Arman, Head Corporate Center at Inacta adds, "We see blockchain as one of the technologies of the future. We see it as our responsibility to nurture young and interested talent in this field. With the newly established Blockchain apprenticeship, we want to lay the foundation for a solid basic education in the heart of Crypto Valley."
Two apprentices for the time being
Throughout the four years of training, Inacta will be in close contact with its apprentice and with TIE International. CV VC, a private investment company that provides seed funding to startups, is also training a Mediamatik EFZ apprentice with a focus on blockchain starting this August.
Sources and further information: TIE International, Inacta, CV VC
