Stockholm is now the new IT mecca

IT&Telecom's Fredrik von Essen is interviewed in SvD Näringsliv about the image of Stockholm as the new IT metropolis.

Stockholm has become an IT metropolis. The industry giants in the capital attract specialists from all over the world and the companies work hard to make the new arrivals feel at home. But there are problems. Small players are being left behind as they wait for work permits for the sought-after experts.

- There is certainly a shortage and need for experts in the industry and it is good that Swedish companies can get hold of the skills abroad. But you have to remember that far from all companies have the necessary resources," says Fredrik von Essen, pointing out that most companies cannot afford to arrange language training themselves, for example.

However, he says there is help available. IT&Telekomföretagen cooperates with, among others, vocational colleges and the employment service.