In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the demand for skilled tech professionals continues to soar. It’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve and identify the top tech careers that will be in high demand. Whether you’re considering a career change or looking to enhance your existing skills, this comprehensive guide will provide you with valuable insights into the most sought-after tech roles and the skills required to excel in them. Let’s explore the top tech careers this year and the exciting opportunities they offer.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is a field that is experiencing tremendous growth and demand. With the increasing number of cyberthreats and the need to protect sensitive data, organizations across all industries are in dire need of cybersecurity professionals. According to recent reports, there were over 750,000 cybersecurity-related job postings in the United States alone in January 2023. However, there is a significant shortage of professionals to fill these roles, with only 68% of positions being filled.
The role of a cybersecurity professional is crucial in identifying and mitigating potential security risks, developing security protocols, and ensuring the safety of digital assets. This field offers a unique and ever-evolving work environment, where no two days are the same. One of the advantages of pursuing a career in cybersecurity is that you can enter the field from various backgrounds as it doesn’t necessarily require a specific degree.
When it comes to the best places to work in cybersecurity worldwide, cities like New York and Washington, DC offer high salary ranges for cybersecurity professionals, along with a low number of applicants per job posting. Melbourne and Sydney in Australia also have a significant talent pool in the cybersecurity field, with competitive salaries and a low number of applicants.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning
If you pay keen attention to the tech world, attend job fairs, and watch company presentations, you have seen how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are revolutionizing various industries. This makes this field one of the most in-demand and highly paid tech careers for one to enroll in. The increased reliance on AI and ML technologies has led to a surge in job openings and a shortage of skilled professionals to fill them. A 54% annual growth in AI-related jobs is expected. According to Gartner, AI was the second-highest in-demand skill in 2022, with a 14.3% increase in job demand in the U.S.
Professionals in AI and data and are responsible for developing and implementing algorithms, analyzing large sets of data, and creating innovative solutions. A career in AI and ML requires a strong analytical mindset, problem-solving skills, and the ability to think outside the box.
San Jose, San Francisco, and Washington DC are among the best places to work in AI and ML, offering high salaries for professionals in this field along with a low number of applicants per job posting. Cities like Shanghai and Beijing also provide excellent opportunities for AI and ML professionals, with a low number of applicants per job despite moderate levels of talent supply.
Cloud specialization
With the increasing adoption of cloud computing by organizations worldwide, the demand for cloud specialists is soaring. Despite the prevalence of cloud-related projects, there is a significant shortage of professionals with in-depth cloud knowledge and expertise. According to recent data, only 8% of technologists claim extensive experience with cloud-related tools, highlighting the rarity of this skill set.
As a cloud specialist, your role will involve designing and implementing cloud-based solutions, managing cloud infrastructure, and ensuring data security. This field offers excellent opportunities for self-taught professionals. Many individuals – especially freelancers – have transitioned into cloud-related roles without a traditional degree and have qualified for high-paying jobs.
Cities like Tokyo and Washington, DC offer high salaries for cloud engineers, along with a low number of applicants per job posting. Melbourne, London, and Toronto are also great locations for cloud professionals, with competitive wages and a low level of competition.
Solutions architecture
In the world of technology, it’s not just about the technology itself; it’s about finding solutions to complex problems. This is where solutions architects come in. These professionals are responsible for designing, describing, and managing solutions that meet the specific needs of organizations. Solutions architects play a crucial role in bridging the gap between technical requirements and business objectives.
A career in solutions architecture requires a combination of technical expertise, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills. Solutions architects need to be able to explain complex technical concepts in a non-technical manner to stakeholders and ensure that the proposed solutions align with business goals.
New York, Washington, DC, and Dallas are among the best places to work in solutions architecture, offering high salaries and a low number of applicants per job posting. London, Toronto, and Sydney are also desirable locations for solutions architects, with competitive wages and a favorable job market.
Software engineering
Software developers/engineers are highly sought after due to the rising popularity of mobile apps and other tech-driven products. These developers can specialize in either applications or operating systems and interfaces. Generally, a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or mathematics is a basic requirement.
An MSc Computer Science program consists of software development courses that cover languages like Java and Python. For instance, the Baylor University online master’s program helps students acquire knowledge in software architecture, security assessment, microservice-based enterprise application design, model-driven analysis, code analysis, and testing.
Undertaking a course of this nature for professional development might seem daunting or impossible if you are currently working, or juggling family responsibilities, but the option to learn online makes accessing education easier than ever. Online learning is a convenient and affordable way to learn and recent innovations and experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic have meant that digital classrooms are more streamlined and enjoyable than ever. So, if you dream of expanding your skillset or even changing career paths, a course like this is for you! Recent reports emphasize the value of certifications in the job market as they can help prospective employees stand out or be considered for a promotion.
Data science and analysis
As organizations continue to rely on data for decision making and strategic planning, the demand for data scientists and analysts is skyrocketing. Employment in the field of data science is projected to grow by 36% from 2021 to 2031, making it one of the most sought-after tech careers. According to Gartner’s IT Skills Roadmap, data engineering and data science are among the most in-demand skills for tech professionals.
Data scientists and analysts are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting large sets of data to drive insights and inform business strategies. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in programming languages, and a deep understanding of statistical methods are essential for success in this field.
New York; San Francisco; and Washington, DC have really good rates for roles in data science –often between 146K to 171K – and the number of applicants is low as well.
To stay on top in the tech industry, get the necessary training and education, build a portfolio that you can show off, prepare well for the technical interview, and sharpen your soft skills as well.
