Shortage of 615,000 IT network professionals predicted in Europe by 2008

Robin Adda, Managing Director of gtslearning, commented: "A report by IDC and Cisco has demonstrated that the skills gap is very much alive with a shortage of 230,000 networking specialists today rising to 615,000 in 2008. This is quite frightening given the reliance that business and government places on the Internet."

"In the late 90s, entry into IT careers was difficult and the skills gap was wide open between the haves and have-nots. Today, more people have a basic knowledge of PC hardware and software, yet networking technology remains an unknown for many."

gtslearning has introduced a certification skills library for wannabe IT professionals, LabSim, to help people in the UK to futureproof their careers.

LabSim Certification Library includes innovative and engaging self-paced computer-based training content for nine key certifications from CompTIA, Cisco, Microsoft and Novell.

Each LabSim product will enable students to fast-track their networking technology skills through:

- Video: Video-based instruction covers the certification content;
- Simulations: User-friendly simulations help students practice their skills in a safe, real-life environment;
- Testing: Extensive practice tests are included to offer guidance to the student or to simulate the certification exam.

LabSim is a proven technology used by commercial and academic education leaders worldwide as well as individuals pursuing IT certifications. First-time pass rates are in excess of 86% for students using LabSim products.

The LabSim Certification Library costs just £995 plus postage and is suitable for use by individuals studying for IT professional qualifications and companies offering learning development packages to employees.

More information about the LabSim Certification Library on gtslearning's website.