MODERN TRENDS AND CHALLENGES OF THE PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPE OF IT SPECIALISTS IN UKRAINE

Introduction. The information technology sector in Ukraine is a key sector of the modern economy, a powerful export driver that significantly affects the digital transformation of society. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and full-scale war have created new challenges that have radically changed the professional environment for IT specialists. Research into new trends and barriers is necessary for the formation of effective educational, personnel and economic policies in the IT sector. Methods. The study uses a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach that combines quantitative and qualitative methods of analysis: system analysis; dynamics; comparative analysis; content analysis of public sources; secondary analysis of statistical data; expert assessment of the IT industry and its labour market; graphical and analytical methods. Results. The main advantages of Ukrainian IT outsourcing are outlined, in particular: strong human resource potential, economic feasibility, high-quality technical education, digital maturity and resilience to crises. Structural changes are analyzed, in particular, workforce dynamics, employment trends and behavior in the labor market in the period from 2022 to 2024. Based on the latest data, the study highlights a temporary decline in 2022, after which signs of recovery and stabilization are observed in 2023–2024. The key problems faced by IT companies during the COVID-19 pandemic and hostilities are revealed, and it is also noted that these challenges have become an impetus for digital transformation, the development of remote work formats and business continuity strategies. Current trends in the IT sphere over the past three years are identified: the development of the outsourcing model; remote employment and digital mobility; demand for new specializations; maintaining reliability and sustainability. The stages of transformation of the IT job market during 2022–2024 are described. The main challenges for IT professionals during the war are identified and directions for supporting the competitiveness of the industry are proposed. Discussion. In further research, it is advisable to analyze the effectiveness of state support for the IT sector, the impact of hybrid employment, and the transformation of educational trajectories, taking into account the experience of Central and Eastern European countries. Keywords: IT industry, IT outsourcing, transformation, IT specialist, job market, challenges, war, trends.