There is increasing anecdotal evidence the playing field is being tilted against American software and other tech workers. If unemployed American tech workers need more training, provide it Some anecdotes from someone who has spent 30+ years in software. Most of that as a consultant who has done short to medium engagements with many customers.
First, there is no such thing as the "tech industry", there are thousands of specialized niches. At entry level, skills are largely interchangeable. By the time one has 5 years experience, they need to have specialized somewhat. After 10 years, it is difficult, but not impossible, to change specialties. New specialties are born constantly, and others die. If you have spent the past 20 years in something that nobody needs, you have are unemployable. At best, a little training will get you to slightly above entry-level in a different field.
Second, the imported labor is necessary. American industry would collapse without it. At most of my clients, at least 40% and often more of the software professionals are foreigners. This is much more true among the younger ones than middle age and up. Not enough American kids study engineering.
Third. Because technology changes so fast, you must constantly learn new things. I have averaged 10-15 hrs/week of self-study for my entire career. Most do not do that, and many find themselves unemployable at 50. As a potential employer, I would not invest in someone who has not invested in themselves.
It is true that some of the unemployed Americans would find jobs if there were fewer immigrants, but the result would not be good for the economy. It would be forcing employers to settle for less qualified workers.
It is also true that the presence of large numbers of immigrants has depressed wages. On the other hand they are still well above most other fields. |
