IT certifications are now crucial for workforce strategy, not just optional upgrades, a new report reveals. Companies are leveraging them to fix skill gaps in AI, cybersecurity, and cloud, boosting performance and ROI. Nearly all organizations track certification benefits, seeing significant value per employee, and many plan to upskill staff through these programs.
As companies increase investments in technology, a new report suggests that IT certifications are becoming a key part of workforce strategy rather than just an optional skill upgrade.
The Pearson 2026 Value of IT Certification Employer Report highlights how organisations are using certifications to address skill gaps, improve performance, and measure returns on investment.The study, based on insights from over 500 IT and HR leaders across seven countries, indicates that nearly all organisations (99%) track returns from certification programs, with 93% reporting positive outcomes. On average, companies estimate an annual value of around $17,500 per certified employee, with higher gains reported in organisations that have more skilled teams.Beyond financial returns, certifications are also linked to business requirements. In some industries, they act as a “license to operate,” helping companies qualify for contracts, meet regulatory standards, and build trust with clients and partners.The report also points to a growing reliance on certifications to address skill gaps. Around 43% of organisations say they face shortages in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.
To bridge this gap, 83% plan to upskill their existing workforce, with 78% choosing certification programs as a primary method.Companies that require certifications for certain roles report stronger outcomes across multiple areas. These include better project completion rates, improved workforce readiness, and higher chances of attracting talent. About 70% of such organisations say they have a competitive advantage, compared to 57% of those without certification requirements.Certification is also being integrated into hiring and career development strategies. Many organisations use it to assess technical skills, set promotion criteria, and create structured learning paths for employees. This approach helps teams adapt more quickly to changing technology requirements.The report notes that interest in certifications is expected to grow further. Nearly 88% of leaders believe certifications will become more important over the next three to five years, especially as AI continues to reshape job roles and skill requirements.Overall, the findings suggest that companies are aligning technology investments with workforce development, with certifications emerging as one way to measure and build capability.
