The digital revolution has been happening in the business realm. The use of online tools and technologies has become apparent in the workplace. They have helped increase efficiency, improve accuracy, promote quality, enhance productivity, and more.
As such, companies and organizations leverage new and emerging technologies as well as tap into tech experts and professionals. The questions are:
What lies ahead in the tech careers this year?
What particular technology-related jobs should you explore?
This page covers the top trends for technology careers in 2024. Find out what tech-related jobs or roles are available this year—and beyond!
Various businesses across different industries have invested in technologies for digital transformation. However, they also need tech professionals and experts who can deploy, operate, monitor, and maintain these technological resources. That makes tech careers truly relevant and much-coveted in today’s digital business landscape.
That said, here are the top trends for technology careers in 2024—and beyond:
1. The use of artificial intelligence and machine learning
The use of AI has become a buzzword in the world of business. Many professionals are afraid that AI-powered tools could take over human jobs. However, the World Economic Forum cites that while AI would replace 85 million jobs, it could create 97 million new ones.
The global AI market has been growing and expanding. Statista states it’s projected to hit $305.90 billion in 2024 and $738.80 billion by 2030 at a 15.83% compound annual growth rate (CAGR).
For the uninitiated, learn more about what AI and ML entail below:
AI involves simulating intelligence in technologies so they can somehow think and work like humans. Think of using AI recruitment tools for the data collection and analysis of potential candidates. They can do the job for you!
ML allows technologies to learn, solve problems, and make decisions based on patterns and trends. Consider using predictive analytics for customer segmentation in business. They can assist in generating leads and converting sales for you!
Roles:
Wondering what jobs to take? Here are some AI-related roles to consider:
AI model developer (creating AI models by identifying current problems, choosing the right algorithms, and developing models designed to perform specific tasks)
Machine learning engineer (designing scalable ML systems for data processing, model training, and deployment)
Natural Language Processing (NLP) designer (developing algorithms and models to allow tools and technologies to understand, interpret, and communicate the human language)
Expert advice:
Robert Kaskel, Chief People Officer at Checkr, recommends leveraging AI for business optimization.
Shaffer said, “AI tools won’t take your job but your manual work. They can perform routine and repetitive non-core tasks so you can focus on income-generating core initiatives. In other words, they can help increase your efficiency and profitability.”
2. The expansion of big data and data science
There’s no denying the expansion of big data in business across different industries. Companies are investing in data analytics to handle, process, and analyze a vast amount of information for their business processes.
But what is big data, and what are the roles in data science? Here’s what you need to know:
Big data is the term used to describe large and complex data sets, according to Statista. Think of the healthcare industry dealing with personal health information (PHI). Consider medical codes like ICD, CPT, and HCPC codes.
Data science is the study of information to get valuable business insights. These information pieces aid in identifying areas for improvement, streamlining operational processes, and making sound business decisions.
Roles:
Here are some roles you can assume for data science to handle big data:
Data scientist (extracting valuable data insights from large and complex datasets using AI models and ML algorithms for sound decision-making)
Data analyst (examining and interpreting information to provide actionable insights and inform business decisions)
Data entry specialists (encoding and maintaining accurate, complete, and up-to-date information in databases)
Expert advice:
Max Wesman, Founder & COO of GoodHire, recommends crossing the field of data science while leveraging innovative technology.
Wesman said, “Sure, it’s where the money is, given this age of information. However, it requires research and analysis, which can be fulfilling for some. Fret not, as digital tools and technologies can help in your day-to-day tasks.”
3. The explosion of metaverse
The metaverse, short for the digital universe, has become a buzzword in business. This technology uses virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). They enable people to have a highly immersive 3D virtual world experience as if they were in the real world.
Grand View Research reported the explosion of the global metaverse market: It’s projected to grow from $65.5 billion in 2022 to $936.6 billion by 2030 at a whopping 41.6% CAGR.
Explore the different types of extended realities (XRs) used in the metaverse for business:
Virtual reality (VR) is a digital environment that offers users a fully immersive experience.
Augmented reality (AR) is an online semblance of the natural world using digital elements.
Mixed reality (MR) combines VR and AR, making a perfect metaverse environment.
Roles:
Here are some roles you can take related to the use of technology for the metaverse:
XR developer (developing VR, AR, and MR technologies to provide users with immersive experiences on digital platforms)
3D designer (creating three-dimensional visual elements, whether for digital animations, mobile games, or product designs)
UI/UX designer (focusing on developing user interfaces or UI for an excellent user experience or UX)
Expert advice:
Stephan Baldwin, Founder of Assisted Living, suggests capitalizing on the metaverse for a career path.
Baldwin said, “The metaverse is the future of business, but the digital landscape has already begun. What better way to thrive and survive in the business world than to take careers related to the metaverse? Consider jobs allowing you to build and explore the digital universe.”
4. The rise of cybersecurity careers
Cybersecurity has become a growing concern in today’s business landscape. Not only should you offer employees workers compensation benefits for physical incidents, but you should also provide them with protection from online attacks.
Over 65% of SMEs have experienced such attacks in the last 12 months.
Almost 70% claim these attacks have become more and more targeted.
That said, here are cyberattack forms in business you should be wary of:
Password attack entails stealing passwords and getting unauthorized access to systems and information.
Malware attack involves using malicious software to harm or damage a computer, system, or network.
Man-in-the-Middle (MiTM) attack occurs when an unauthorized user intercepts the communication between two parties to steal information.
Denial-of-service (DoS) attack is an intentional malicious attempt to disrupt a network, system, or service.
Structured Query Language (SQL) injection happens when someone inserts malicious SQL queries into a web application for disruptions.
Roles:
Below are some technology-related roles revolving around cybersecurity:
Chief Information Security Officer (overseeing a company’s information technology systems by developing and maintaining IT security policies, risk management, and compliance initiatives)
IT security software developer (creating software solutions specifically designed to enhance the IT security systems and networks of an organization)
Cybersecurity analyst (monitoring a company’s IT infrastructure for potential security vulnerabilities and protecting it from cyberattacks)
Expert advice:
Anthony Martin, Founder and CEO of Choice Mutual, highlights the importance of promoting cybersecurity in business, especially in finance.
Martin said, “You must stay on top of your cybersecurity to avoid data breaches and business disruptions. These can result in legal ramifications, financial losses, and even company shutdown if neglected. The key here is to secure your system and network as well as safeguard business data and customer information.”
5. The penetration of blockchain technology
Blockchain has become increasingly popular in business. Consider the rise of digital currencies like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETC). Retail and e-commerce businesses have begun taking cryptocurrencies for payments.
Blockchain has become instrumental in creating digital currencies for encrypted and decentralized transactions. This technology is a distributed ledger enforced through a distinct network of computers. It comprises a set of connected data blocks, each verified by a network validator.
Here’s how the blockchain technology can impact some of the industries:
The financial sector has become open to exploring, providing, and accepting digital assets. In time, banks and financial institutions might accept cryptocurrencies as they’ve already started using blockchain technology. Finance professionals must be open to learning the use of this technology for career advancements.
The supply chain starts with obtaining materials from suppliers and ends with delivering products to customers. Companies and third-party suppliers use smart contracts designed to automatically enforce, control, and document supply chain activities according to the agreed terms and conditions. This practice is apparent among e-commerce and retail businesses.
Roles:
Wondering what jobs to get related to blockchain? Here are some:
Blockchain developer (designing, implementing, and maintaining decentralized applications (DApps) using blockchain technology.
Smart contract developer (coding, testing, and deploying smart contracts on blockchain networks)
Jim Pendergast, Senior Vice President at altLINE Sobanco, cites the value of blockchain in business.
Pendergast said, “The use of blockchain technology has come a long way since its inception. It has disrupted many industries, from the finance sector itself to the healthcare segment. You might want to venture into blockchain to take your career to the next level, whether as a finance professional or a software developer.”
6. The prevalence of remote work tools and technologies
The Owl Labs surveyed over 2,300 full-time American employees and released its State of Remote Work 2022 report. Here are some interesting statistics:
Those preferring remote work increased by almost 25%.
Those opting for a hybrid work setup rose to over 15%.
Those who still go for traditional office work decreased by 24%.
The pandemic has triggered the rise of remote work in business. As such, companies and organizations have focused on improving the digital employee experience. Here are some digital tools and technologies they use for remote work:
Time management software: Think of time-tracking tools like Toggle, Clockify, and Hubstaff used for monitoring and managing work schedules.
Communication and collaboration tools: Slack, Asana, and Tello are software tools for interacting with remote employees.
Video conferencing platforms: Zoom, Skype, and Google Meet are popular apps used for business meetings via videos.
Project management tools: Companies and organizations use Jira, Basecamp, and Smartsheet for managing team projects and individual tasks.
Roles:
Explore some roles you can take related to digital tools and technologies used for remote work:
Software developer for digital tools (designing, developing, and maintaining software applications/tools for digital use or consumption)
Virtual IT support specialist (providing technical assistance like troubleshooting and tech support to remote users experiencing issues with their computer, software, or hardware)
Remote project manager (overseeing a remote team by planning project timelines, defining tasks, allocating resources, and collaborating with team members via digital tools)
Expert advice:
Shawn Plummer, CEO of The Annuity Expert, suggests capitalizing on digital tools for optimizing remote work.
Plummer believes in harnessing the power of today’s technology. “You should invest in online tools and communication technologies to improve employee interactions. If possible, create a unified platform for all remote employees in your company or organization.”
Kicking off Your Tech Careers in 2024 and Beyond
Technology careers are booming in today’s digital business landscape. Not only do they offer lucrative jobs, but they provide relevant and long-term opportunities. As such, it’s time to kick off your career with a tech-related job or role!
Start by familiarizing yourself with the top tech career trends this year—and beyond. Consider some of the technology-related jobs or roles outlined above. More importantly, assess your educational and employment background, earned knowledge and skills, as well as passion and interest in life to decide on what career path to take.
The tech careers are indeed thriving in 2024 and onwards—pick one that’s right for you!
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