Navigating Q2 2025 US Talent Trends

2025 US Market and Talent Trends 

One quarter into 2025, the workforce continues to transform rapidly. In response, we are seeing organizations adapting their workforce management and development strategies. Based on our 2025 Q2 Insights Lab report, there are significant talent trends shaping the technology, pharmaceutical, energy, and finance sectors.  

Here are a few key takeaways to consider:   

Technology talent demand outweighs supply

Analysts anticipate global IT spending to grow by 9.3% this year, with data center and software segments expected to increase at double-digit rates. While the demand for AI-related jobs in the U.S. is projected to surpass 1.3 million positions over the next two years, the talent supply will fall short of that by more than half.  

Reskilling and upskilling will be important tools to bridge the gap. Businesses can help their workforces develop AI skills by incorporating modular short-cycle courses, on-the-job training, and stretch projects. This approach addresses immediate talent shortages and fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth, which helps companies attract and retain great talent.  

Innovations drive pharmaceutical and life sciences talent demand 

Oncology and anti-obesity drug R&D, alongside AI-driven innovations, will drive pharmaceutical industry growth in 2025. Yet an uncertain economy, FDA layoffs, and talent shortages present challenges.  

In biotech, 80% of firms struggle to fill critical research, manufacturing, and regulatory affairs roles, especially in groundbreaking fields such as mRNA therapeutics and CRISPR technology.  

In life sciences overall, generative AI and cybersecurity remain top areas of investment. Adopting strategic talent acquisition and retention strategies and nurturing relationships with STEM talent providers and professional networks will help attract and retain top-tier talent. 

Energy and utilities see growing talent shortages 

Labor constraints are making it harder for companies to meet growing demand for energy and utilities. A lack of skilled workers, particularly in roles such as electrical linemen, has resulted in price hikes for contractors. An overwhelming majority of power and utilities (88%) and oil, gas, and chemicals (81%) executives plan to rely more on vendors and contractors than they have in the past.  

Companies can counter the talent shortage by developing training programs, investing in mentorship initiatives, and reskilling existing employees on digital technologies. 

Technology and talent are top priorities in financial services 

The growing financial sector has seen a rise in compensation expenses, driven by performance-based rewards and steep salaries for tech talent in AI and machine learning. Simultaneously, compliance and technology costs continue climbing, with banks investing heavily in regulatory software, infrastructure, and operational and transformational technology initiatives.  

To remain competitive, financial services organizations must prioritize technology development and talent expertise, cultivating a pipeline of talent to enhance operational resilience, especially in cybersecurity. 

Bridging the skills gap with reskilling and upskilling 

The skills gap remains a critical challenge across all sectors. Organizations can address this by adopting comprehensive capabilities assessments, reskilling, and upskilling initiatives that will empower workers to adapt to changing demands and seize new opportunities.  

Diverse learning pathways, including online courses, workshops, and experiential learning, will meet different learning preferences and needs. And fostering a culture that values curiosity and innovation inspires employees to seek new experiences and learning opportunities. 

Embracing change and fostering resilience 

Finding new ways to organize work across the talent ecosystem has become central to the success of organizations across industries. Companies must build resilience and flexibility to thrive in the constantly evolving workplace. This requires a holistic approach to workforce management that prioritizes employee wellbeing, engagement, and empowerment. By providing employees with the tools and resources they need to succeed, companies can build empowered and resilient teams capable of navigating change with confidence. 

Organizations that embrace agile workforce development and management strategies will be positioned to thrive, no matter what the future holds. For more detailed insights, download our Insights Lab Q2 2025 report today!