Singapore launches new cloud skills pathway to meet tech demand

The Singapore Computer Society has launched its second Skills Pathway, this time focusing on cloud capabilities, with support from SkillsFuture Singapore and the Infocomm Media Development Authority.

The Skills Pathway for Cloud is designed to provide structured industry-relevant training and certification, aiming to equip both new entrants and mid-career professionals with the skills necessary to support Singapore's growing digital economy. Participation is open to individuals seeking to transition into the technology sector, offering opportunities for internships and employment interviews with key industry employers.

Cloud training structure

The initiative is structured into two progressive levels, preparing participants for four main entry-level roles: Cloud Infrastructure Engineer, DevSecOps Platform Engineer, Cloud Software Engineer, and Cloud Solution Architect (Associate). Upon attaining the necessary certifications defined under Level One and Level Two, candidates may be eligible for internship or full-time employment opportunities with participating employers.

Level One requires participants to achieve an applicable, industry-recognised certification, which may grant them potential access to internship opportunities. Level Two, building on this foundation, requires a core and a specialisation certification, plus three months of relevant work experience or a six-month internship, positioning candidates for potential full-time roles.

The new Skills Pathway for Cloud follows the earlier pathway in Cybersecurity announced in July 2024. According to the provided data, over 180 individuals have so far secured internships or employment through the cybersecurity pathway, reflecting a growing demand for IT-related training and job-ready candidates. SSG-supported learners in fields such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and digital marketing have increased sharply, from 34,000 in 2023 to 96,000 in 2024.

The new cloud pathway has been developed in collaboration with 14 employers across the technology sector, including DBS, the Centre for Strategic Infocomm Technologies, HTX (Home Team Science and Technology Agency), and ST Engineering, among others.

Industry context

The initiative comes amid substantial growth in Singapore's technology workforce. According to the IMDA annual survey, the number of tech jobs in Singapore grew from 172,000 in 2019 to 214,000 in 2024. Cloud, network, and infrastructure roles now account for one of the largest shares of technology positions.

The SCS Skills Pathway for Cloud is designed to keep pace with this demand and meet industry needs, focusing on practical, work-based outcomes that align with employers' requirements.

Stakeholder perspectives

Mr Edward Chen, Chairman of SCS Skills Pathway, said, "From the inception of our first skills pathway for Cybersecurity to our current extension – this second Skills Pathway for Cloud – we have been able to directly engage employers, industry leaders, government agencies and training providers. As the nation's leading professional society for ICT, we are proud to be that bridge between these different stakeholders, and to shape talent development strategies that are aligned with real workforce needs. Most importantly, we are able to help more Singaporeans to secure quality jobs and address the sector's skills gap."

In addition to Mr Chen's remarks, representatives from other supporting organisations highlighted the importance of the employer-driven approach. Mr Tan Kok Yam, Chief Executive of SSG, stated, "As a Skills Development Partner, SCS continues to play an important role in shaping workforce capabilities, by identifying critical roles and emerging skills in the digital space. The active participation of our partners ensures that the skills pathway is grounded in real-world needs and supported by employers – offering individuals relevant training and meaningful opportunities for employment. We look forward to deepening our partnerships to co-create more skills pathways to support the workforce."

Mr Kiren Kumar, Deputy Chief Executive, IMDA, also added, "Cloud is the unseen force powering the AI revolution and Singapore must be ready to harness it. Through TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA), IMDA is building the next wave of cloud capabilities, from guiding entry-level professionals towards industry-recognised certifications, to creating quality job and training opportunities that put those skills to work. By strengthening both the talent pipeline and the opportunities available, we are positioning Singapore to lead in the AI economy."

With continued collaboration between industry and government, the Skills Pathway for Cloud will focus on expanding opportunities for Singaporeans as the demand for cloud computing skills increases across the digital economy.