In the context of AmCham's 30th anniversary, Sergiu Russu, Technology Sales Leader - Oracle Romania,  shared his perspective on the company's growth and contribution to the development of the local economy during the past three decades. 

The full interview is included in the AmCham30 Brandvoice for Forbes Romania, July 2023 edition.

The word that best defines the evolution of the IT&C sector in Romania is "expansion." Over the years, the sector has grown significantly in terms of value, human resources, and the diversity of its applications and solutions, ultimately making a profound impact on society.

Since 1995, when Oracle began operating in Romania, the technology sector has evolved from a standalone industry to one that stimulates and influences business activities across all domains. The role of technology has shifted from being an engine room process to becoming an inseparable part of business processes and strategies.

During this evolutionary process, many Romanian experts have had the opportunity to showcase their talent and achieve success locally and globally. However, the industry still faces a skills deficit, which poses a threat to the country's competitiveness and future development. While important initiatives, in which Oracle plays a significant role, have been undertaken, there is much more to be done to improve and upskill the younger generations in technical education, making it a constant priority.

Oracle had a substantial expansion in Romania. With a large number of employees, clients, and partner companies, Oracle has had a significant impact not only on the IT industry but on the entire economy. The implementation of new technologies, support for vital national platforms in the public and private sectors, and the development of the workforce and the next generation of professionals are all remarkable aspects of Oracle's contribution to Romania.

Oracle is a key supporter of IT education through the Oracle Academy program. In Romania, the Oracle Academy supports hundreds of high schools and universities, training thousands of students and approximately 200 teachers each year in various fields such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and the Internet of Things.

Looking ahead to the next decade, the greatest risk for the IT&C sector is the ever-present uncertainty and the need for constant adaptation. Companies are focusing on doing more with fewer resources, finding ways to remain agile, and becoming more efficient than ever. Innovative technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the industry's future.

Additionally, artificial intelligence will be essential in combating security threats, one of the sector's greatest challenges. By leveraging AI-based tools, specialists will be able to respond faster and anticipate risks, taking proactive measures. As technology plays an increasingly significant role in our lives, the IT&C industry must lead in building trust, acting transparently, sharing knowledge, and supporting education so that people feel confident about the remarkable innovations and new opportunities created by digital solutions.

>> Read the full interview here.

>> Learn more about Oracle and its activity in Romania