Reskilling IT Talent
2025-07-03 06:54:59

How RasterWorks Tackles Japan's IT Talent Shortage with Reskilling Support

RasterWorks Tackles IT Talent Shortage



As Japan's IT sector grapples with an alarming shortage of qualified professionals, the renowned company RasterWorks is stepping up to meet this challenge with its innovative approach: the "Reskilling-type SES (System Engineering Service)." This initiative, which offers up to 1.5 million yen per individual for retraining, aims to facilitate the transition of existing engineers into roles that are crucial for the country’s shift toward more advanced technological solutions, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) coding.

Background on Japan's IT Talent Crisis



According to a report from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), by 2030, the country could face a shortfall of up to 790,000 IT professionals. This staggering shortage is primarily attributed to two critical issues: a lack of highly-skilled IT personnel capable of navigating AI and digital transformation (DX), and the slow pace at which large enterprises are internalizing their development operations. Such a talent gap poses severe risks to Japan’s global competitiveness, underlining the urgency for effective reskilling and labor mobility initiatives that RasterWorks is poised to deliver.

RasterWorks' Response to the Challenges



RasterWorks has developed the Reskilling-type SES as a proactive response to the IT talent shortage. Traditionally, SES involves placing engineers in client organizations to deliver technical assistance under contractual agreements. However, RasterWorks has reengineered this model to enhance not only resource provision but also to focus on the dual goals of retraining and career advancement for engineers.

Most existing reskilling programs merely provide opportunities for learning without ensuring supportive pathways for employment after the training. In contrast, RasterWorks has integrated a definitive goal into its Reskilling-type SES—engineers can expect an eventual transfer or transition to higher-level roles. This accountability sets RasterWorks apart, providing a robust framework not only for learning but also for tangible career advancement.

The Key: Promoting AI Coding Adoption



Starting in early 2024, RasterWorks has equipped all its engineers with accounts for GitHub Copilot, enabling them to apply AI coding tools in real-world scenarios and measure effectiveness. Preliminary results showed a remarkable reduction in development time by approximately 75%. This improvement indicates that with widespread adoption of AI coding practices, the actual demand for IT professionals may drop significantly to around 1.185 million, aligning closely with METI's forecast of 1.13 million IT professionals available. Thus, fostering AI coding adoption emerges as a pivotal strategy in alleviating the IT talent shortage.

Overview of the Reskilling-type SES Program



The Reskilling-type SES comprises two distinct courses tailored for engineers:

1. Transfer Assurance Course: This guarantees a transfer to the in-house development department within three years, allowing for full remote work afterward. The environment supports hands-on AI coding and Scrum methodologies.

2. Cyber University Tuition Support Course: This program covers up to 1.5 million yen of tuition fees to support diploma-level professionals in transitioning from non-IT backgrounds into qualified IT roles, preparing them for positions in major system integration firms or end-user companies.

This innovative approach not only accelerates the supply of digital transformation-ready talent but also cultivates a fresh workforce adept at using AI coding in practical settings, thereby enhancing overall productivity in Japan’s IT landscape. Furthermore, it advances the Ministry’s call for businesses to foster internal capabilities by transitioning their workforce through successful educational outcomes.

Future Prospects



RasterWorks aims to expand its Reskilling-type SES initiative to include 50 engineers by the end of the fiscal year 2025. Going forward, the company plans to strengthen partnerships with educational institutions and other businesses to broaden the reach and effectiveness of its innovative reskilling programs.

Company Overview



RasterWorks, Inc.
CEO: Takashi Ishi
Location: 501 Sunrose Musashino, Nakacho 1-2-9, Musashino, Tokyo
Founded: 2001
Business Focus: Contract development (including lab-type development), Reskilling-type SES business.

Contact Information


RasterWorks Public Relations
TEL: 050-1809-1024
Email: press@lusterworks.co.jp
Corporate Website: RasterWorks
Reskilling SES Recruitment Page: Recruitment


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Topics Business Technology)

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