Technology is forever improving, evolving, which is a trend, which is set to increase, for the foreseeable future. This is where tech skills comes into the equation, as they both work hand in hand. In this competitive climate, it’s important that both the employer and employee are aware of the skills required to excel in the marketplace. As this ensures that the right person is selected to fulfil that perfect role.
If you have the right skills, then it’ll put you in the most ideal situation, when it comes to applying for jobs. It’s for this reason why you may want to know before hand, what you should learn.
That is the motivation behind this article. To give you the heads up on in-demand IT skills for this year, and the future.
- Java
Java was created in 1995, and is an open source programming language. Today, it remains one of the most widely known and used. Sun Microsystems is the original developer of this language, which was later acquired by Oracle. Java is used in the development of both web and mobile applications, in addition to games, and database programs. It’s also used widely in large scale companies like Netflix, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter.
- Python
Python is an extremely popular programming language, which is why so many are rushing to learn it. Individuals that have mastered this language, are able to take up roles in very popular tech trends, such as Artificial Intelligence and Mobile. In order to take up a job as a Python Developer, you’ll have to learn Core Python, as standard, in addition to having analytical skills and knowledge in web frameworks.
- Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is a major challenge for companies and end users today, which is why so much money is invested into keeping computer systems and networks protected. Within the past year, we’ve witnessed, close to a 10% increase in cybersecurity spending. It’s for this reason why working in this particular field is so appealing. When you opt to work in this field, you can be sure, you’ll always have job opportunities.
- Data Engineering and Analytics
When it comes to employer demand, skills in engineering and data management are forever growing. Data Analysts require the expertise that Data Engineers have, in order to carry out their day to day duties. This symbiotic relationship, makes working in this field very attractive, for this year and for the years to follow.
- IT Support
Specialists in IT support are continuously in demand, as new businesses pop up and require people that can work in this field. There are several avenues available to you, when you decide to work in this field, with getting a degree, being purely optional. If you don’t have a university degree, and don’t have any intentions of ever going to university, then I’d recommend you looked at acquiring skills in Cisco and Linux.
- Internet of Things (IoT)
IT is generally, a pretty competitive area to work in, however, when it comes to the various related fields, IoT is one, that has a lot of room for developers. IoT is still fairly young, and thus, growing quite rapidly. Due to the lack of required skills in the field, there is still a lot of room for growth, and it’s for this reason, why there is so much demand for IoT skills.
- Cloud Computing
Since its introduction, Cloud Services have continued to go from strength to strength. It’s for this reason why skills in cloud computing is so desired. Skills in Azure and AWS are considered hot property, with major improvements going on in large scale Cloud projects.
- Data Science
Many employees are taking the initiative to invest both time and money into acquiring data science skills. This is due to the realisation of its importance. A year or so ago, Data Scientists, were amongst the most sought after peoples, and this situation, isn’t set to slow down, anytime soon.
- JavaScript
JavaScript, just like Java, was introduced in the same year of 1995. Despite the relative similarities in name, they are very much different. While Java is used primarily on the back-end of many databases, and applications, JavaScript is used primarily on the front-end, of these programs, to enhance a websites interactivity. When it comes to site building, JavaScript, is one of the most widely used; additionally, it’s also used in the creation of games. Due to its power and flexibility, it has become one of the most widely used languages today.
- Blockchain
Blockchain technology is used primarily for Cryptocurrencies, but beyond that, it’s also an emerging key future tech, across many different sectors, not just the finance industry. Investments in Blockchain tech is fairly significant, with demand for people with the required skills, equally as sought after.
—AUTHOR INFO—
Uchenna Ani-Okoye is a former IT Manager who now runs his own computer support website https://www.compuchenna.co.uk.