Amid the overall slowdown, several industries report relatively strong IT hiring and technology investments. Increased provincial and federal government expenditures are expected to further boost IT spending in some sectors throughout the country.

According to the Robert Half Technology IT Hiring Index and Skills Report, CIOs in the retail industry anticipate some of the most active hiring in Canada in the first quarter of 2010. Technology executives in the wholesale sector also forecast employment growth above the national average. In the United States, the wholesale industry is expected to drive the most hiring for the first three months of 2010, followed by the retail sector, according to CIOs polled.

Here are four industries in which IT growth is expected to continue in several markets:

Healthcare: An aging population, the need for constant technology upgrades and government funding should result in continuing rapid growth for IT in healthcare and related industries.

Government: Canadian government funding is likely to fuel IT hiring both within government agencies and in firms that rely on government contracts.

Education: Technology investments and hiring should remain strong thanks to Canadian government funding, rising student enrollments at all levels and the growth of e-learning.

Financial services: Technology investments and hiring may increase as firms strive to meet reform and compliance requirements. Continuing uncertainty may encourage organizations to consider contract and project professionals.