Hiring tech talent for skills gaps, AI and business needs in 2026

To keep critical initiatives moving forward, tech and IT leaders must build adaptable, resilient teams that deliver results—and close both existing and emerging skills gaps. Explore Robert Half’s latest research and strategies to help tech leaders acquire and align the specialized talent needed for priority projects, from security to AI.

Tech skills gaps create risk

Tech and IT leaders cite security, AI integration, and data science, analytics and governance as strategic priorities this year. But many report needing deeper expertise on their teams—meaning tech talent gaps often threaten these critical business initiatives.

93%

of tech leaders say their teams lack the staff and skills needed to achieve priorities in 2026.

66%

say it’s more challenging to hire and retain security and privacy talent than a year ago.

63%

say they struggle to hire talent with specialized AI and data science skills.

Strategies to help achieve your tech priorities

Get Robert Half’s latest data on tech skills gaps and the challenges teams of all sizes face in executing priority initiatives and modernization so you can shape a stronger talent strategy for your projects.

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Tech and IT teams at organizations of all sizes are strained as demand for AI expertise accelerates—while operational and legacy systems compete for the same talent capacity and specialized skills.

Strategies to solve skills gaps:

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87% of tech teams have implemented AI beyond a pilot program, and 92% are increasing their investment in AI tools. But many leaders struggle to secure the specialized talent required to drive these initiatives and deliver value to the business. They’re turning to recruiting specialists for help.

of tech leaders working with a recruiting firm are seeking help finding talent with AI skills. of tech leaders working with a recruiting firm are seeking help finding talent with AI skills.

look to recruiters for guidance on workforce planning for AI initiatives. look to recruiters for guidance on workforce planning for AI initiatives.

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The survey cited was developed by Robert Half and conducted by an independent research firm. Results may not total 100% due to rounding or allowing for multiple responses. Respondents included more than 350 technology leaders at the director level or above from small and midsize businesses (under 1,000 employees) and large enterprises (1,000+ employees) in private, publicly listed and public sector organizations across the U.S.